Atlin is a corruption of Áa Tlein, the Tlingit word for "big body of water". The area has been used by the Taku River Tlingit for many years. There are several archeological sites and cultural sites within the park.
It was gold that gave Atlin its reason for existence. The gold rush came to Atlin Lake country in 1898 and was one of the richest offshoots of the Klondike Gold Rush. By the end of the mining season of 1899 about 5000 people flocked to the region, and Atlin was a busy and important town. Although creeks in the present day park must have been prospected, none bore any gold. Although production was greatest in the early years, the Atlin field still produces today. Total placer gold production has exceeded $23 000 000.
The park was created in 1973.
Conservation
Approximately one third of the park's area is occupied by glaciers. The Llewellyn Glacier, considered the source of the Yukon River, is the most prominent.
