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Haines Alaska

Surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, and pristine waters, Haines is a spectacular seaside city in Southwest Alaska. The surrounding city has stunning views due to its proximity to Chilkat State Park, Takinsha Mountains, and Coast Mountains. Haines is also called the Adventure Capital of Alaska and is a historic, scenic, and cultural hub. Haines is one of the three ports of Southeast Alaska, with Port Chilkoot Dock, Fast Ferry Dock, Portage Cove Harbor, and Letnikot Cove Harbor as the main ports. From rafting in Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve to photography tours and wildlife encounters to hiking Mount Ripinsky, the city has multiple activities, attractions, and cultural places, making it one of the top cruising destinations. Explore what Haines has to offer its visitors and how thrilling a vacation would be in this city.

Most Popular Itineraries

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    4 Nights Pacific Coastal Cruise

    Zaandam

    $280
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    7 Nights Caribbean

    Norwegian Getaway

    $650
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    10 Nights Alaska Cruise

    Majestic Princess

    $3999
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    3 Nights Bahamas Cruise

    Allure of the Seas

    $400
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    5 Nights Bahamas Cruise

    Carnival Conquest

    $600
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    10 Nights Mediterranean

    Silver Moon

    $4111

Haines Top Attractions and Activities

Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

Home to the largest gathering of bald eagles in the world, the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is popular for wildlife viewing, photography, and educational tours. During October and November, witness a spectacle of nature when more than 3000 bald eagles gather in the preserve, where they converge to feast on a late run of chum salmon in the Chilkat River. This spot in the city is a photography paradise for wildlife photography and is also part of the Tlingit people's ancestral lands, with profound historical and ecological importance.  

The Haines Sheldon Museum

Known as a cultural and historical gem of the city, the Haines Sheldon Museum highlights the Rich Tlingit Heritage and the indigenous history of the Chilkat Valley. The Museum is known for hosting exhibits that explore Haines' role in the Klondike Gold Rush, featuring numerous photographs of mining ledgers, ship logs, and historic scenes. Here at the Museum, visitors can get a chance to view 12,000 cataloged photographs of Alaska's transformation in the 19th century.

Kayaking

Haines has numerous kayak rentals offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness nature at its best and a thriving wildlife scene. There are numerous spots in and around the city known for kayaking, including Chilkoot Lake, Inside Passage, and Lutak Inlet. Kayaking through these areas will take visitors on a scenic ride, wildlife encounters, access to the shoreline, and interesting glacial features.

Fort William H. Seward

Famous for its historical significance, Fort William H. Seward is a National Historic Landmark, a spot in the city to learn about the rich history and to engage in unique activities. Here, explore the fort to learn about the military history of Alaska and the area and to enjoy the natural beauty. The fort houses a non-profit Art Gallery, The Alaska Indian Arts, where visitors can experience various activities focused on Native Alaskan art and culture.

ATV Tours

Enjoy a thrilling off-road adventure at Haines by participating in ATV tours. The most famous ATV experience can be gained at the Takshanuk Mountain Trail, where visitors can drive to the top of the mountain on their 4x4 ATVs, passing through cascading waterfalls, alpine meadows, and wildlife-rich forests. There are numerous other spots in the city where travelers can enjoy ATV rides, including Chilkot Lake Area, Lutak Inlet, Mount Ripinsky Trails, and Portage Cove.

The Best Time to Cruise to Haines

The ideal time to visit Haines is between May and September, offering mild weather, a perfect time for wildlife encounters, and to participate in outdoor adventures. The winter season in the city starts from December to February, with cold, snowy weather and temperatures ranging from 9°F to 30°F. This time of the year is best for Northern Lights viewing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, winter wildlife watching, and ice fishing. The spring season in the city is from March to May, with temperatures between 28°F and 59°F. During this season, visitors can go birdwatching, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and taking photography tours. The summers in the city are mild and wet, which is between June and August, offering the best time for hiking, camping, fishing, rafting, wildlife viewing, ATV adventures, and kayaking and boating. The fall season in the city is ideal for numerous activities, including bald eagle viewing and photography, as well as participating in cultural experiences at JilkaatKwaan Heritage Center and Haines Sheldon Museum.