Do Not Visit Haines Alaska Until You Read This

Jeana Travels
16 min readJun 16, 2021

Small towns tend to dominate when you visit Alaska, but this one is really worth your time. Haines Alaska has everything from epic hikes to killer local brews. These are our top picks for an inspiring visit in the Adventure Capital of Alaska.

Though Haines only has 2,000 residents that call it home, this fishing-port town has a big heart, and the friendly locals truly make the experience. Prepare to swap stories with flannel-clad loggers, grab a beer with a totem pole artist, and high-five the mayor while you’re there.

You’ll also want to explore the exceptional local trails, find out why the Discovery Channel is filming nearby, and talk to some local heli-skiers about Haines’ candyland of epic peaks and internationally acclaimed powder.

Oh, and you’ll definitely want to be around in September to see over 4,000 eagles arrive for the remarkable annual eagle congregation.

haines alaska downtown cruise port

Fun facts about Haines, Alaska

  • average age is 49
  • has the highest per capita number of artists of any town in America
  • approximately 1/3 of the population leaves for the winter
  • is home to Klukwan, the lowest inhabited village in America
  • world-renowned for heli-skiing
  • home to the Discovery Channel’s hit show Gold Rush Alaska

There’s a reason why so many authors, artists, photographers, athletes, and outdoor adventurers tend to extend their stay in Haines, and why so many youngsters are flocking to this outdoor paradise.

Where is Haines Alaska?

Nestled at the base of the Takshanuk and Chilkat mountains, Haines Alaska is a charming, rugged frontier town that offers bucket-list beauty and endless outdoor adventures.

This off-the-beaten-path destination is perfect for adventurers, freedom seekers, and great American road trippers of all ages. So if you’re seeking pristine landscapes, dreamy wildlife, and small-town vibes that rival the rest, this trip is right up your alley.

How to Get to Haines Alaska

Jeana Travels

Rarely caught without a camera, Jeana is an adventurous traveler with a passion for people, cultures and food. Insta: @JeanaTravels 🕸 SurfandSunshine.com