FREE THINGS TO DO IN HAINES

  • 1. Chilkoot River – The Chilkoot River flows into Lutak Inlet, and is one of the more easily reached bear viewing spots in Southeast Alaska. Salmon spawn in the Chilkoot each year, attracting brown bears between mid-June and October, with July and August the peak months for bear viewing. River otters and harbor seals chase salmon upstream at high tide. Common mergansers, Barrow’s goldeneyes, harlequin ducks and other waterfowl feed at the estuary where the Chilkoot River flows into Lutak Inlet. In the spring and fall, large numbers of shorebirds flock to the estuary mudflats to refuel before continuing their annual migrations. American dippers feed on aquatic invertebrates and small fish throughout the year.
  • 2. Battery Point Trail – Explore the stunning Battery Point Trail, a serene journey through the lush rainforest that leads to a breathtaking rocky beach. Starting just a mile and a half south of town at the end of Beach Road, this gentle 1.2-mile trail offers a leisurely stroll surrounded by natural beauty. As you emerge onto the grassy beach, take in the panoramic views of Kelgaya Point and Kelgaya Bay to the right, followed by the captivating Battery Point. Observing Chilkoot Inlet’s narrowest stretch from Battery Point provides an opportunity to witness nature’s marvels. Keep an eye out for humpback whales’ telltale blows, the heads of harbor seals or Steller sea lions, and the diverse birdlife including loons, surf scoters, pelagic cormorants, and marbled murrelets diving for their meals. While the trail is relatively easy, the entire journey from town and the trail hike is over five miles, so plan for a 1 to 2-hour experience to fully savor this nature-rich expedition. Embrace the possibility of encountering local wildlife like bears and moose along the way, adding an extra touch of wilderness adventure to your exploration.
  • 3. Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Area – State park offering kid-friendly hikes, a campground, and bear and salmon viewing.
  • 4. Chilkat State Park – Chilkat State Park is a 9,837-acre Alaska state park on a peninsula south of the town of Haines, Alaska between the Chilkat and Chilkoot inlets.
  • 5. Haines Borough Public Library – The Haines Borough Public Library is the only public library in the Haines Borough area of Alaska.
  • 6. Haines Brewing Company – With our 7bbl brewhouse we have at least 12 brews on tap, available to customers by the glass in the tasting room or by the growler to go. When first established in 1999, we rented a small building at the local Fairgrounds where we operated for 16 years. And now, since September 2015 we are in our new building on Main Street, downtown Haines. Our retail space grew from a customer capacity for 12 people shoulder to shoulder – to room for 49 indoors and an outdoor beer garden with stunning views. Stop by to enjoy a fine crafted brew and a taste of life in Haines.
  • 7. Alaska Indian Arts in Haines – Alaska Indian Arts is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to the preservation and continuation of traditional native craft and culture.
  • 8. Alaska Rod’s – Local Alaskan and Yukon art. Over 100 artist have work in our store. Haines residents Rod and Rhonda Hinson own and operate the store year round. Rod makes custom knives and also turns wood products like pens, stylus’, seam rippers and cork screw/bottle stoppers. The best homemade fudge you’ve ever tasted and healing salves made from local plants. Plan on spending time looking around because every spot in the store is filled with great products.
  • 9. Port Chilkoot Distillery – At Port Chilkoot Distillery, we created our line of canned cocktails for every drinker. Thoughtfully selected, each flavor is meant to be approachable and easy to love. We started at our Tasting Room, experimenting with our favorite classic cocktails with the help of our skilled bar team. After much sampling, tasting, and plenty of good times, we settled on four spins on beloved drinks that we stand behind proudly. Each canned cocktail offers its own unique taste –  from the sweet and sour balance of the Bee’s Knees to a crisp and refreshing G&T, there is something for everyone.
  • 10. Haines Packing Company – Haines Packing Company is an artisan Alaskan seafood processor nestled in the small community of Haines, Alaska. Independently owned and operated by Harry Rietze, a third-generation Alaskan who oversees every aspect of the business to the highest standards possible. Harry has intentionally kept the business small enough to ensure that no fish is overlooked. It’s a special kind of art and Harry brings this dedication and intimacy to his business through direct communication with his team, fleet, and customers.

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS NEAR THE CRUISE PORT