Haines Travel Guide

Comprehensive travel guide for Haines, Alaska with information on attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Haines

Haines is a charming coastal town located in Southeastern Alaska. It is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and the pristine waters of the Chilkat Inlet. The town is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and abundant outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Haines

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Chilkat Valley through exhibits and artifacts.
  • Hammer Museum: This museum features a collection of over 2,000 hammers from around the world.
  • Fort William H. Seward: This historic site was once a military base and now houses a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Natural Attractions of Haines: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve: This is one of the best places in the world to observe bald eagles. The preserve covers 48,000 acres along the Chilkat River.
  • Chilkoot Lake State Park: This park offers stunning views of the Chilkoot Mountains and opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
  • Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve: This park is home to 16 active glaciers and is a popular destination for boat tours and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Haines

  • Mount Ripinsky Trail: This scenic trail offers stunning views of the Chilkat Inlet and the surrounding mountains.
  • Battery Point Trail: This easy hike takes you to Battery Point where you can observe sea lions and other marine wildlife.
  • Chilkoot Trail: This historic trail was once used by gold miners and now offers breathtaking views of the Canadian wilderness.

Best Things to Do in Haines: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife Watching Tours: Take a boat tour to observe whales, sea lions, and other marine wildlife.
  • Glacier Tours: Take a boat tour or a flightseeing tour to get up close to some of Alaska’s most spectacular glaciers.
  • Art Galleries and Studios: Haines is home to a thriving arts community, with many galleries and studios open to visitors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Haines

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Fort William H. Seward and visit the Hammer Museum
Day 2 Hike the Mount Ripinsky Trail and enjoy the scenic views
Day 3 Take a wildlife watching tour and observe whales and sea lions
Day 4 Visit Chilkoot Lake State Park for hiking and fishing
Day 5 Take a Glacier Bay National Park tour and see some breathtaking glaciers
Day 6 Visit the Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center to learn about local history and culture
Day 7 Explore local art galleries and studios

Food and Drink Scene of Haines

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fresh Alaska Seafood: Haines is known for its delicious salmon, halibut, and crab dishes.
  • Fry Bread: This traditional Native American dish is a Haines favorite.
  • Reindeer Sausage: This unique dish is a must-try for adventurous foodies.

Local Beverages

  • Haines Brewing Company: This local microbrewery offers a variety of craft beers.
  • Glacier Smoothie Soaps: This local company makes handcrafted soap using glacial meltwater.

Where to Stay in Haines: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Halsingland: This historic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Haines and offers charming accommodations.
  • Beach Roadhouse B&B: This cozy B&B offers stunning ocean views and a peaceful getaway.
  • The Alaska Guardhouse: This affordable hostel is located in a historic military building and is perfect for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Haines: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Native Art: Haines is home to many talented Native American artists, offering unique jewelry, carvings, and textiles.
  • Salmon and Other Seafood: You can find delicious, locally caught seafood to bring home.
  • Birch Syrup: This unique syrup is made from birch trees and is a popular souvenir item in Haines.

Local Culture and Customs of Haines

  • Respect for Native Culture: The Native culture is an important aspect of Haines and visitors are encouraged to respect their traditions and customs.
  • Environmental Stewardship: Haines is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world and visitors are encouraged to take care of the environment.
  • Community Involvement: Haines is a small town and visitors are encouraged to participate in community events and activities.

Best Time to Visit Haines

The best time to visit Haines is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is mild and the days are long, giving visitors plenty of time to explore all that Haines has to offer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Haines

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife
  • Participate in community events and activities
  • Learn about the Native culture and traditions

Don’t:

  • Disturb wildlife or their habitats
  • Engage in disrespectful behavior towards Native culture and traditions
  • Leave garbage or litter in natural areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Haines

Haines is a safe place to visit, but visitors should always take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and to stay alert while traveling.

Health in Haines

Visitors to Haines should come prepared with any necessary medications and should be aware of the risk of hypothermia and other cold-related injuries. Visitors should also be aware of the risk of bear encounters in the backcountry and should take precautions when hiking or camping.

Getting to Haines: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Haines

  • Haines Airport: This small airport offers limited flights to and from Juneau.

Bus Stations Near Haines

  • There are no bus stations in Haines.

Other Options

  • Ferry: The Alaska Marine Highway System offers ferry service to Haines.
  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car in Juneau and drive to Haines.

How to Get Around in Haines

The best way to get around in Haines is by car, as the town is spread out and many attractions are located outside of the downtown area. Visitors can also rent bikes or take a taxi or shuttle service.

Where to Go Next from Haines: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Skagway: This historic town is located just a short ferry ride from Haines and offers a glimpse into the area’s gold rush history.
  • Juneau: The state’s capital city is a short flight or ferry ride from Haines and offers a variety of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures.
  • Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve: This national park is located just a short boat ride from Haines and offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Alaska.

Conclusion

Haines is a hidden gem of Alaska and a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and outdoor adventure. With its stunning scenery, vibrant arts scene, and friendly community, Haines is truly a one-of-a-kind destination.