Attractions and Places To See in Haines Borough - Top 3

Haines Borough is rich in natural beauty. You can hike to Mount Riley Summit for 360-degree views of the surrounding land and water. The Ayiklutu Trail (Seduction Point Trail) offers a journey from forest to shoreline, providing coastal access. Another popular spot is Battery Point, an idyllic rocky beach. Beyond these, the region features the Chilkat River, Lynn Canal (North America's deepest fjord), and views of Rainbow and Davidson Glaciers, especially from Chilkat State Park.

Haines Borough offers several significant historical sites. Fort William H. Seward, a National Historic Landmark established in 1902, is a prominent feature with its distinctive white buildings now housing various establishments. The Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center also preserves and interprets the history of the Chilkat Valley, including pioneer days and Tlingit heritage. Additionally, the Eldred Rock Lighthouse, located near Sullivan Island, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Yes, Haines Borough has several family-friendly options. Battery Point is an idyllic, rocky beach perfect for a leisurely visit. Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site is popular for camping, fishing, and bear viewing, especially during salmon runs. The American Bald Eagle Foundation and Live Raptor Center offers educational programs and live raptor displays that are engaging for all ages. The Hammer Museum, with its unique collection of approximately 1,400 types of hammers, can also be an interesting stop for families.

Haines Borough is renowned for its abundant wildlife. The Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is famous for hosting the world's largest gathering of bald eagles, particularly in late fall along the Chilkat River. You can also spot brown bears at Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site, especially during the salmon runs from mid-June to mid-October. Marine mammals can be observed in Lynn Canal via catamaran tours, and the Chilkat River attracts a wide variety of wildlife due to its importance for salmon spawning.

For bald eagle viewing, late fall (October-November) is ideal when thousands congregate along the Chilkat River. For bear viewing, particularly brown bears, visit Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site from mid-June to mid-October during the four salmon runs. Summer months offer opportunities to see a wider variety of wildlife, including marine mammals in Lynn Canal.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Ayiklutu Trail (Seduction Point Trail) is a challenging route that leads from forest to shoreline. The hike up Mount Riley Summit, while offering rewarding views, also presents a moderate to challenging climb. For more options, you can explore various routes in the Hiking in Haines Borough guide, which includes difficult trails like the Upper Dewey Lake & Devil's Punchbowl route.

For easier walks, Battery Point offers a fine, easy destination through near-shore woods to an idyllic rocky beach. Other trails like the Lower Dewey Lake loop near Skagway, mentioned in the Hiking in Haines Borough guide, are also rated as easy.

Haines Borough has a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the region's history and diverse cultures, including Tlingit heritage. The Jilkaat Kwaan Heritage Center is a working museum that honors Northwest Coast art and offers cultural experiences to learn about Tlingit traditions. You can also visit local artist studios, the Chilkat Center for the Arts, and the Fort Seward Sculpture Garden.

Beyond hiking, Haines Borough offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find several cycling routes, including those around Chilkoot Lake State Recreationsite or from Haines itself, detailed in the Cycling in Haines Borough guide. Fishing is popular at Chilkoot Lake, and rafting down the Chilkat River is another option. During winter, heli-skiing and backcountry skiing are available in the Chilkat mountains.

Yes, Haines Borough is home to a couple of unique museums. The Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center offers insights into the region's history and Tlingit culture. For something truly distinctive, visit the Hammer Museum, which houses an impressive collection of approximately 1,400 types of hammers, showcasing the history of this fundamental tool.

Yes, visitors can enjoy views of Rainbow and Davidson Glaciers, particularly from Chilkat State Park. For a more spectacular perspective, flightseeing tours are available to offer aerial views of these and other glaciers in the region.

The Haines Highway is designated as the "Valley of the Eagles National Scenic Byway." It follows the Chilkat River for 40 miles to the Canadian border, offering stunning views and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. It also played a historical role as part of the Dalton Trail during the Klondike Gold Rush.