Haines Wilderness & Nature Exploration

OVERVIEW

Look for iconic Alaskan wildlife in the Chilkoot Valley, an unspoiled landscape with an abundance of bears and bald eagles. A high-speed catamaran ferry will bring you across the Chilkoot Inlet to the town of Haines for a narrated drive through Fort William Seward. The now-decommissioned fort was built in 1902 as a display of power during a border dispute with Canada. On the way there, you may spot seals, sea lions, porpoises and perhaps even whales. Being full of salmon, the Chilkoot River attracts huge numbers of bears and bald eagles, and you will observe them feeding voraciously along the river. Binoculars will be available if you want to look for mountain goats grazing in the distance alpine meadows. You will also stop at the river’s mouth, which is known for having the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles. Watching these majestic birds up close is quite the experience.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Observe the abundant wildlife in the Chilkoot Valley.
• Look for marine life on the ferry ride to Chilkoot Valley.
• Enjoy a narrated drive through Fort William Seward, 19th-century landmark in Haines.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.