19 Things To Do In Haines, Alaska For The Perfect Adventure

Planning a trip to Alaska? Don't miss Haines, a town that combines the wild outdoors with a friendly, walkable community.

Oct 20, 2025

20.7K Shares

305.2K Views

Things To Do In Haines For An Amazing Trip

Haines is a small town in the Inside Passage of Southeast Alaska. It sits 75 miles north of Juneau at the end of Lynn Canal and has about 2,500 residents. Visitors come here for close encounters with wildlife, exciting outdoor adventures, and a strong sense of local culture.

Many towns in Alaska are hard to reach, but Haines is different. It is one of the few places in Southeast Alaska connected to the road system through the Haines Highway. This makes it easier and more affordable to visit compared to places that need long flights or ferry rides. This list of things to do is grouped into themes to make planning easier.

1. Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

Bald eagles perched at the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

The Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve covers 48,000 acres and is home to the largest gathering of bald eagles in the world. Each fall, between 3,000 and 4,000 eagles gather here. The preserve is just 10 miles north of Haines along the Haines Highway, making it an easy trip for unforgettable wildlife viewing any time of year.

The area’s special geography creates a late salmon run that draws eagles from all over Alaska and western Canada. From October through February, the Chilkat Riverstays ice-free thanks to underground thermal springs. This gives eagles access to food when other rivers are frozen.

Distance from downtown Haines:10 miles (15-minute drive)
Best viewing times:October through February for large gatherings; year-round for resident population
Cost:Free admission
Facilities:Designated parking areas, interpretive signs, riverside walking trail

Visitors can enjoy a 2-mile riverside trail with several great viewing spots. The best times for photos are early morning and late afternoon, when eagles are most active. More than 80 eagle nests have been recorded here, and several hundred eagles live in the preserve year-round.

2. Mount Ripinsky Trail

Mount Ripinsky Trail showing patches of snow, winding trails, and a small harbor town below

Mount Ripinsky rises 3,610 feet above downtown Haines and offers one of Alaska’s best day hikes with sweeping views of the Inside Passage. The trail is about 6 miles round trip and climbs 3,000 feet, making it a tough but rewarding challenge for experienced hikers.

The route moves through different landscapes, starting in coastal rainforest and opening into alpine tundra above 3,000 feet. Mountain goats are often seen near the summit, and bears sometimes forage for berries in late summer. From the top, hikers enjoy 360-degree views of the Chilkat Mountains, Lynn Canal, and the Chilkoot River valley.

Trailhead location:Pipeline Road, 2 miles from downtown Haines
Distance:6 miles round-trip
Elevation gain:3,000 feet
Difficulty:Strenuous
Best season:May through September

Plan for 6 to 8 hours to complete the hike. Above 2,000 feet, snow lingers from October through April, so winter travel requires proper gear and mountaineering skills.

3. Chilkat State Park

Chilkat State Park with a hiker walking near a still lake that mirrors the surrounding alpine beauty

Chilkat State Park covers 9,300 acres of coastal wilderness just 7 miles south of Haines. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing while taking in views of Davidson Glacier and the Chilkat Inlet.

The campground has 32 sites set among tall Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets and potable water are available throughout the area. The shoreline along the inlet is perfect for tide pooling, beachcombing, and spotting wildlife.

Distance from Haines:7 miles via Mud Bay Road
Camping fees:$15 per night for standard sites
Day use:Free
Facilities:32 campsites, vault toilets, water, picnic areas

The park also has several trails. The Seduction Point Trail is a 7-mile round trip that follows the coast and offers views of seals, sea otters, and migrating whales. The Battery Point Trail is a shorter 2-mile loop through old-growth forest that leads to a scenic overlook.

4. American Bald Eagle Foundation Museum

Educational bird show featuring a trained owl in flight, guided by a handler at the American Bald Eagle Foundation Museum

The American Bald Eagle Foundation Museum in downtown Haines holds the world’s largest collection of bald eagle specimens and Alaska wildlife displays. More than 180 species are shown in realistic habitat dioramas.

Visitors can also see live raptors in outdoor flight cages. These include rehabilitated eagles, hawks, and owls, offering an up-close look at these powerful birds. Inside, the Natural History Center uses interactive exhibits to explain eagle anatomy, life cycles, and conservation efforts.

Location:113 Haines Road, Haines, Alaska
Admission:Adults $5, Children $3, Under 8 free
Hours:Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (May-September)
Special features:Live raptor displays, hands-on exhibits

The museum also features rare color variations of bald eagles, complete skeletons, and detailed information about their behavior and biology. Educational programs are available for groups that book in advance.

5. Fort William H. Seward National Historic Landmark

Quaint village street lined with colorful Victorian-style homes at the Fort William H. Seward National Historic Landmark

Fort William H. Seward was built in 1904 as the first permanent U.S. Army post in Alaska. Today it is a National Historic Landmarkwith 13 original buildings arranged around a central parade ground, giving visitors a look into Alaska’s military past.

At its peak, the fort housed up to 600 soldiers and played an important role during World War I and World War II. After it was decommissioned in 1947, the site was turned into a planned community that still has residents and businesses.

Location:4-6 Ft Seward Drive
Admission:Free self-guided tours
Buildings open to public:Officers' quarters, enlisted men's barracks, guardhouse
Guided tours:Available through advance reservation

Visitors can tour the restored officers’ quarters, now home to the Alaska Indian Arts Center, and stroll the parade ground where military ceremonies once took place. The fort also offers beautiful views of Lynn Canal and the Chilkat Mountains.

6. Hammer Museum

The wooden sign of the Hammer Museum with a hanging giant painted hammer sculpture

The Hammer Museum in downtown Haines is the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to hammers. Its collection includes more than 2,000 hammers that span 4,000 years of history.

The museum was founded by Dave Pahl, who started collecting hammers in 1976 and opened the museum in 2002. The displays cover hammers used in shipbuilding, jewelry making, geology, and many other professions, with clear explanations of how each tool was used and why it mattered. You can also learn quirky details tied to history and culture, adding to the many interesting facts about Alaskayou’ll discover here.

Location:108 Main Street, downtown Haines
Admission:Adults $5, Students $3, Children under 12 free
Hours:Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (May-September)
Special features:Hands-on demonstrations, historical exhibits

Interactive exhibits let visitors try traditional hammer techniques under supervision. Educational displays also trace the evolution of metalworking and show how hammers shaped human technology over the centuries.

7. Chilkoot River Bear Viewing

A brown bear walking across rocks in the Chilkoot River

The Chilkoot River, just 10 miles southeast of Haines, is one of the best places to see both brown and black bears during salmon spawning season. Unlike more famous bear viewing spots in Alaska, this river offers a quieter, more personal experience.

The clear water and easy access make it possible to watch bears fishing for salmon, mothers teaching their cubs, and even interactions between different bear families. During peak salmon runs in July and August, the area often hosts 15 to 25 bears.

Distance from Haines:10 miles via Lutak Road
Best viewing times:July through September
Admission:Free
Facilities:Parking area, viewing platform, interpretive signs

A raised viewing platform gives visitors a safe place to watch while still enjoying clear views of the river. The best time to visit is early morning, between 7:00 and 10:00 AM, when bear activity is highest, human crowds are smaller, and the light is best for photos.

8. Kroschel Films Wildlife Center

Two women gently offering branches to a moose through a wooden fence at the Kroschel Films Wildlife Center

Kroschel Films Wildlife Center, located 23 miles northwest of Haines, offers guided tours and film presentations that bring visitors up close to Alaska’s animals. The center is home to orphaned and injured wildlife that cannot return to the wild.

Animals here include wolves, lynx, porcupines, reindeer, and many bird species, all kept in large natural habitats. The programs highlight wildlife biology, conservation, and the challenges Alaska’s animals face.

Distance from Haines:18 Mosquito Lake Road
Admission:Adults $15, Children $10
Tours:Daily at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM (summer only)
Duration:90 minutes per tour

Visitors can enjoy close encounters with habituated animals, watch feeding demonstrations, and learn about each species’ natural history and conservation status. The center also creates nature documentaries and educational films about Alaska’s wildlife.

9. Jilkaat Kwaan Cultural Heritage And Bald Eagle Preserve

A colorful mural painted on the Jilkaat Kwaan Cultural Heritage and Bald Eagle Preserve building

The Jilkaat Kwaan Cultural Heritage and Bald Eagle Preserve is a special place where you can see wildlife and learn about Native Alaskan culture. This facility is run by the Tlingit people and offers guided tours. These tours teach visitors about the traditional bond between the Tlingit people and eagles.

The preserve offers many activities, including traditional storytelling and demonstrations of Native crafts. You can also learn why eagles are so important to Tlingit traditions. The preserve has traditional clan houses and shows off real artifacts and artwork.

Location:9 Chilkat Avenue
Admission:Adults $25, Children $15
Tours:By appointment only
Special programs:Cultural demonstrations, storytelling sessions

During the tours, you will learn how the Tlingit people and bald eagles have a deep relationship, both spiritually and practically. Topics include old hunting methods, how feathers are used in ceremonies, and how the Tlingit people have protected eagles for hundreds of years.

10. Kayaking Lynn Canal

A kayaker gliding across the Lynn Canal with perfect reflections of snow-capped mountains

Lynn Canal is North America's longest and deepest fjord. It stretches 90 miles from Haines to Juneau. Kayaking on its calm waters lets you see glaciers, waterfalls, and animals. You will also enjoy amazing mountain views.

Day trips from Haines explore the Chilkat Inlet and northern Lynn Canal. You might see harbor seals, sea otters, and migrating humpback whales. You can also take longer trips that last for many days. These trips go to glaciers and remote campsites.

Day trip duration:4-6 hours
Cost:$125 per person (guided tours)
Equipment included:Kayak, paddle, safety gear, dry suit
Skill level:Beginner to advanced routes available

Guided tours provide all the safety equipment, lessons, and local tips on wildlife and weather. If you are an experienced kayaker, you can rent a kayak on your own. You will be given route ideas and tide charts.

11. Port Chilkoot Distillery

The Port Chilkoot Distillery wooden building with a red “DISTILLERY” sign

Port Chilkoot Distillery makes high-quality spirits with ingredients grown in Alaska and pure glacier water. The distillery is located in the old Fort William H. Seward. Here, you can take a tour, try different spirits, and enjoy cocktails made with local plants.

The distillery makes vodka, gin, whiskey, and special drinks that change with the season. They use traditional copper stills. On a tour, you will learn how they make the spirits, where they get their ingredients, and you can taste what they are currently making.

Location:34 Blacksmith Stree
Tours:Daily 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Tasting fee:$15 per person (includes 4 tastings)
Special events:Cocktail classes, seasonal releases

Port Chilkoot Distillery focuses on being sustainable. They get their ingredients from Alaska farms and use renewable energy. Their educational programs teach about the history of making spirits, how they pick their ingredients, and the unique challenges of making spirits in Alaska's climate.

12. Fishing The Chilkat River System

A fisherman wading in the Chilkat River, holding a fly rod and net with fish in it

The Chilkat River is a great place for salmon and steelhead fishing, just a short drive from downtown Haines. Five types of salmon return here every year, so you can fish from May to October.

King salmon are most common in June and July, usually weighing 20 to 30 pounds. Silver salmon arrive in August and September. They offer fun fishing through October. The river also has many pink, chum, and sockeye salmon.

Guided fishing rates:$200-300 per person (full day)
License requirements:Alaska fishing license, salmon stamp
Prime seasons:Kings (June-July), Silvers (August-October)
Equipment:Provided on guided trips, rentals available

Local guides can provide boats, fishing gear, and knowledge about the best spots to fish and the rules. The river is easy to get to, with many public spots to fish from the shore. This makes it a good place for people of all skill levels.

13. Mount Emmerich And 7 Mile Saddle Trail System

Wooden trail marker at Peak 3920 ft., pointing to Mt. Ripinsky, 7-Mile Saddle, and Haines Hwy

The Mount Emmerich trail system has challenging hikes and beautiful mountain views. It is located south of Haines. The trail to 7 Mile Saddle climbs 2,000 feet over 3.5 miles. From there, you can reach more peaks and ridges.

The trail goes through different environments, from a coastal rainforest to high alpine tundra. You might see mountain goats, ptarmigan, and marmots in the higher areas. Black bears can be found eating berries in the meadows below the mountains.

Trailhead:State Highway 7
Distance to saddle:3.5 miles one-way
Elevation gain:2,000 feet
Difficulty:Moderate to strenuous
Season:June through September

The saddle offers amazing views of the Chilkat Mountains. From here, you can also reach other peaks like Mount Emmerich, which is 4,340 feet high. Experienced hikers can keep going to higher summits. Most day hikers will turn around at the saddle.

14. Alaska Indian Arts Cultural Center

A workspace in the Alaska Indian Arts Cultural Center with a collection of colorful Indigenous masks and cultural artifacts

Alaska Indian Arts keeps traditional Native Alaskan art alive. This includes carving, weaving, and working with silver. The center is located in the historic Fort William H. Seward. Here, you can take workshops, watch demonstrations, and buy real Native artwork.

The center has studios where you can see master artists at work. They create traditional clan clothes, totem poles, and special objects for ceremonies. Educational programs teach about the cultural meaning and old techniques of each art form.

Hours:Monday-Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Workshops:By appointment, $50-150 per session
Gallery admission:Free

The center's gift shop features authentic Native artwork created on-site, with prices ranging from small jewelry items ($25-100) to major carved pieces ($1,000-10,000+). All purchases directly support Native artists and cultural preservation programs.

15. Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site

Tall, intricately carved totem pole standing at the Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site

Chilkoot Lake is a beautiful place for fishing, camping, and watching wildlife. It is located just 10 miles from Haines, surrounded by mountains. The lake is 2.5 miles long and is home to salmon, trout, and char.

The recreation site has a boat launch, camping spots, and hiking trails. In July and August, sockeye salmon return to the lake, which attracts brown and black bears. This gives you a great chance to see wildlife.

Distance from Haines:10 miles via Lutak Road
Camping:$15 per night
Boat launch:$10 per day
Facilities:32 campsites, vault toilets, picnic tables

You can fish for Dolly Varden char and cutthroat trout in the lake's clear water all year. Ice fishing is also a popular activity in the winter. At that time, lake trout and char are active under the ice.

16. Haines Arts Council Galleries And Studios

Spacious white-walled gallery displaying large abstract artworks under track lighting

The Haines Arts Council supports many local artists through galleries, studios, and public art. Downtown Haines has several galleries that show off paintings, photos, sculptures, and crafts. These artworks are inspired by Alaska's landscapes and wildlife.

The council hosts monthly art walks, studio tours, and seasonal art shows. These events feature both local and visiting artists. Many studios also offer workshops and classes. This gives visitors a chance to create their own art inspired by Alaska.

Gallery hours:Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Workshop fees:$40-80 per session
Art walk schedule:First Friday of each month, 5:00-8:00 PM

Local artists work with many different materials. You can find watercolor landscape paintings, wildlife photos, carved wood sculptures, and jewelry with Alaska gemstones. Some of these works have even been collected by famous people in Alaska, adding value and recognition to Haines’ art scene.

17. Seduction Point And Battery Point Trails

Battery Point Trail path through tall evergreen trees in a lush, moss-covered forest

The Chilkat State Park coastal trail system has remote beaches, tide pools, and marine wildlife viewing areas. The Seduction Point Trail is 7 miles long, and the Battery Point Trail is a shorter, 2-mile loop through an old forest.

Both trails are great places to see harbor seals, sea otters, and many kinds of seabirds. When the tide is low, you can see colorful anemones, sea stars, and crabs in the tide pools. The trails are also excellent for beachcombing, where you might find agates and other beach treasures.

Trailheads:Chilkat State Park campground
Seduction Point:7 miles round-trip, easy to moderate
Battery Point:2 miles round-trip, easy
Best tide pool viewing:2 hours before and after low tide

The Seduction Point Trail ends at a beautiful spot with amazing views of Lynn Canal and the Chilkat Mountains. During the summer, it's common to see whales, especially humpback whales, feeding nearby.

18. Rainbow Glacier And Davidson Glacier Viewing

Rainbow Glacier cascading into a rocky valley with waterfalls

There are two glaciers you can easily get to near Haines. They offer great views of the ice. Rainbow Glacier comes down from the Coast Mountains into the upper Chilkat Inlet. Davidson Glacier ends in Lutak Inlet.

You can see both glaciers from the water by taking a kayak or boat tour. The glaciers often break off icebergs into the water. This creates an exciting scene as the ice crashes into the sea. Seals often rest on floating ice near the glaciers.

Rainbow Glacier:Historic Building, 59 Portage Drive
Davidson Glacier:Haines Borough
Boat tour rates:$85-125 per person (half-day)
Kayak tour rates:$145-185 per person (full-day)
Best viewing distance:0.25 miles from glacier face
Season:May through September

Tours include an expert guide who will talk about how ice forms, how glaciers move, and the effects of climate change. If you are interested in photography, there are workshops to help you capture truly breathtaking Alaska picturesof glaciers and wildlife.

19. Haines Quick Shop And Local Farmers Market

A two-story storefront with signs for a quick shop and liquor store on a quiet street in Haines

Downtown Haines has great shopping with local crafts, Alaska-themed items, and special foods. From June to September, the Saturday Farmers Market sells local produce, baked goods, and handmade items.

Local shops sell Native Alaskan art, outdoor gear, and souvenirs that show the area's unique character. Many items are made by local artists. This gives visitors a real souvenir of their time in Haines.

Farmers Market:Saturdays 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (June-September)
Location:296 W Fair Drive
Featured vendors:Local farms, craft artists, food vendors
Specialty items:Fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts

The market focuses on items grown and made locally. Many sellers have businesses all year long, supported by summer tourism. You can buy fresh vegetables, homemade breads, and special gifts made by people who live in Haines.

Free Activities In Haines, Alaska

For travelers on a budget, Haines offers many free things to do. You can enjoy the best of Alaska without spending a lot of money.

Wildlife Viewing:See bald eagles for free at the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The preserve has easy-to-reach viewing spots and walking trails.
Beach Exploring:It costs nothing to explore the beaches at Chilkat State Park, except for the drive to get there. You can spend hours looking at tide pools, beachcombing, and watching wildlife along the beautiful coast.
Historic Walks:Take a free, self-guided walking tour of Fort William H. Seward. Signs along the way will tell you all about the fort's history and buildings.
Art Galleries:It's free to look around the art galleries downtown. You can see Haines' lively art scene and even meet local artists without having to buy anything.

Activities For Cruise Ship Passengers

Your cruise ship will arrive at the Port Chilkoot Cruise Ship Terminal. From there, it's just a short walk to downtown Haines and its main attractions. Most visits last 6 to 8 hours, which is plenty of time to explore.

Here are some popular places to visit:

The Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is a 30-minute drive.
The American Bald Eagle Foundation Museum is a 5-minute walk.
Fort William H. Seward, a historic area, is a 10-minute walk.

If you don't want to walk, shuttle buses are available when ships are in port. They go to popular spots like the eagle preserve, downtown shops, and hiking trails. A round-trip ticket costs about $15 per person.

You can book tours through your cruise line. These tours often include wildlife watching, cultural events, and outdoor adventures to help you make the most of your limited time. Because Haines is small and the downtown area is easy to walk, you can also explore on your own.

To get the most out of your visit, it's a good idea to go to the eagle preserve first. You'll have a better chance of seeing wildlife in the morning. Then, you can come back downtown in the afternoon to shop, eat, and visit museums.

Dining In Haines, Alaska

Haines has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. They use fresh, local ingredients like seafood and produce. Many places offer dishes made with fish caught right here.

Here are a few places to eat:

The Chilkat Restaurant & Bakery serves classic American food with Alaskan specialties. You can find things like halibut, salmon, and reindeer sausage. It is located downtown at 5th Avenue and Dalton Street. Main dishes cost between $18 and $32. It is open all year.
Mosey's Cantina serves Mexican food with an Alaskan twist. They have fresh halibut tacos and beer from local breweries. You can find it at 31 Tower Road. Dinner costs between $16 and $28, and they also serve lunch.
Mountain Market & Cafe is a great spot for organic food, vegetarian meals, and coffee. It has a relaxed feel. They also sell local products, groceries, and ready-to-eat meals perfect for a hike.
Port Chilkoot Potlatch is open during the summer. They serve traditional Alaskan seafood in a historic area at Fort William H. Seward. They focus on using local ingredients and cooking methods.

Most restaurants can handle special diets. They often have vegetarian and gluten-free choices. If you need something special, it's best to let them know ahead of time. It's a good idea to make a reservation during the summer, especially when a cruise ship is in port.

Unique Things To Do In Haines, Alaska

Haines offers special experiences you won't find anywhere else in Alaska. It's a place where you can easily enjoy wild nature and local culture.

Here are some unique things to do:

Alaska Bald Eagle Festival:This festival happens every November. It celebrates the world's largest gathering of bald eagles. You can take part in photography classes, learn from experts, and enjoy cultural events. This is the best time of year to see the eagles.
Kluane-Chilkat International Bike Relay:In June, you can watch or join this 160-mile bike race. It crosses the border between Alaska and Canada. Bikers and fans get to see amazing views and enjoy friendly competition.
Southeast Alaska State Fair:The fair takes place in July. It features local farming, crafts, and live shows. You can also see fun contests like chainsaw carving and pie-eating, making it one of the best things to do in Alaska in July.
Flightseeing Tours:Take a tour by plane over the Juneau Icefield and Glacier Bay. You'll get incredible views of huge ice fields and mountains you can't see from the ground.
Winter Fun:In the winter, you can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Haines gets a good amount of snow, making it great for winter sports. There are also fewer crowds than in the summer.

FAQs

How Many Days Should I Spend In Haines, Alaska?

You should plan for two to four days to comfortably see the main sights. Most cruise passengers have six to eight hours, which is enough time to visit two or three major attractions.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Haines For Eagle Watching?

The best time to see eagles is from October to February, with peak numbers in November. However, you can see hundreds of eagles in the preserve at any time of year.

Can I Drive To Haines, Alaska?

You can drive to Haines using the Haines Highway. The drive from Haines Junction, Canada, takes about two and a half hours, but be sure to have the right paperwork for crossing the border.

What Wildlife Can I See In Haines Besides Bald Eagles?

Besides bald eagles, you can spot brown and black bears, mountain goats, and moose. You can also see harbor seals, sea otters, and migrating humpback whales.

Are There Guided Tours Available In Haines?

You can book guided tours for things like wildlife viewing, fishing, kayaking, and cultural experiences. Most tours include all the necessary gear and are led by local experts.

What Should I Pack For A Haines Visit?

You should pack layered clothing, waterproof rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots. It's also a good idea to bring binoculars for wildlife and a camera with extra batteries.

How Do I Get To Haines From Other Alaska Destinations?

You can get to Haines by ferry from places like Juneau and Skagway. Alaska Seaplanes also offers flights from Juneau.

Can I See The Northern Lights From Haines?

You can see the Northern Lights in Haines, especially from September to March when the nights are long. The best viewing happens between 10 PM and 2 AM on clear nights.

Key Takeaways

Haines is a great place to experience the wild beauty of Southeast Alaska. It's easy to get to, so you can enjoy a true Alaskan adventure without the high costs or feeling isolated. Haines is small enough that you can easily see many different things while still feeling like you're getting an authentic Alaskan experience.

The town works hard to protect its natural beauty while also welcoming visitors. This makes for a great travel experience that is both good for the community and for anyone looking for a real Alaskan adventure.

Jump to

News

Latest In