This quaint Alaskan town sits in the shadow of the Chilkat Mountains. It is located on the shores of the Lynn Canal and is 14 miles south of Skagway and 80 miles north of Juneau. The Lynn Canal canal is the longest, deepest fjord in North America. This Alaskan town is reached via the 159-mile Haines Highway.
The Haines area offers an amazing selection of wildlife as well as a spectacular mountain view. The Haines area is known for the best weather in Alaska.
Most people visit the area when the bald eagles appear in the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. These majestic birds are in the Haines area between October and February each year. Nearly 3,000 eagles arrive to the banks of the Chilkat River. The eagles can be seen feeding on the plentiful salmon. Be sure to look for eagles roosting in cottonwood trees. The historic Fort William H. Seward is a popular destination as well.
The Haines area is also enormously popular with outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Chilkat River rafting and hiking in the surrounding mountains are very popular. The Davidson Glacier is also a popular attraction.
The best time to venture to Haines is from mid-May to August. These months feature dry, mild weather that is perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Haines gets less precipitation than other Alaskan towns, but still gets it fair share. Be sure to bring some wet weather gear.
During the Southeast Alaska State Fair in Haines, the town comes alive. This amazing festival features a truly stagger array of exhibits, demonstrations, food and performances.
Be sure to make the Sheldon Museum a part of your Haines visit. The amazing museum is located on the waterfront corner of Front and Main streets. Its’ main attraction is an unsurpassed collection of Indian artifacts and ancient Haines area relics.
More Haines Reading
Chamber of Commerce
Convention and Visitors Bureau
Chilkat Valley News
Sheldon Museum
Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve