Tag: Haines Alaska

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Haines, Alaska.

HAINES, ALASKA
A PERFECT DESTINATION FOR WILDLIFE ENTHUSIASTS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS
Wild, raw, and unrestrained, Haines is Alaska at its most intoxicating. Crisp white snow crowns charcoal-colored
mountains while seas of impenetrable pine forest flow to swathes of scenic coastline in this magical setting.
Explore a rejuvenating Alaskan escape of temperate rainforests and glaciers as you dig into Chilkat Tlingit culture and
explore a landscape of frayed waterways alive with Alaska’s renowned wildlife. Sat at the head of the lengthy Lynn
Canal – deep within the Inside Passage – Haines is where whale tales flick, bald eagles call, and juicy trout leap
onto fishing rods.

Get your hands dirty and immerse yourself in nature’s wonders – whether you want to slide out onto the still
waters in a kayak, trek narrow trails on a bike, or rise to grandstand views while hiking. Surrounded by watery inlets,
get close to the magnificent wildlife – whether it’s brown bears wading into the river to wrestle with colossal fish
or walruses and sea lions reclining lazily on the banks.

Autumn brings a swell of fierce bald eagles to the area, and Haines welcomes the world’s most significant concentration of
powerful birds. Fort Seward is a site of important gold rush history as a former US military fort turned heritage
museum adorned with totem poles and masks.

The area’s native culture is kept alive through extraordinary Chilkat weaving, and the indigenous people create
elaborate, richly decorated robes. Don’t leave before tasting smoke-cured salmon fresh from the surrounding rivers.

KROSCHEL WILDLIFE CENTER
A must for animal lovers, this privately run center 28 miles north of Haines provides an up-close look at Alaskan wildlife, including bears, caribou, moose, wolverines, porcupines, foxes, and wolves. More sanctuary than a zoo, the center hosts small group tours, usually booked through cruise lines or other tourist outlets. Still, with notice, you may be able to arrange a visit for independent travelers.

SIGHTS

• Chilkat River
• Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve
• Alaska Indian Arts
• Chilkat State Park
• Jilkaat Kwaan Heritage Center
• Haines Sheldon Museum
• Port Chilkoot Distillery

Today’s Excursion – Haines Highlights & Native Culture Experience Difficulty

We explored the fascinating Chilkat Valley with intriguing visits to the area’s best attractions.

We explored the Chilkat Valley’s local and native culture, fascinating history, and magnificent mountain and ocean views. First, a narrated driving tour takes you through Haines and the historic Fort William H. Seward, a National Historic Landmark and one of the first military outposts in Alaska. Its picturesque parade grounds and historic buildings offer a unique insight into life in Haines during the early 1900s. After a short tour of the town of Haines, a scenic drive along the Haines Highway National Scenic Byway through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, we arrived in Klukwan is the only remaining village of the Chilkat Tlingit people. Located at the confluence of three rivers, this ancient village has seen many generations. For thousands of years, the Tlingits have lived off the bounty of this remarkable place. Their close relationship to the land is further revealed through the Jilkaat Kwaan Cultural Heritage & Bald Eagle Preserve Visitor Center exhibits. This state-of-the-art facility is located in a stunningly beautiful natural landscape on the northern banks of the Chilkat River. The Heritage Center provides access to ancient art treasures that have previously not been available to the public. The Whale House Collection, uniquely displayed in its place of origin, allows entrance to the Chilkat Tlingit people’s distinctive ethnic landscape. As you tour this world-class facility, you will learn about the depth and complexity of Tlingit society. There were many unique experiences during our visit to Klukwan; one of the best things about it was the people.

After your visit to Klukwan, we stopped at the American Bald Eagle Foundation’s Raptor Center, an interpretive wildlife education center. This interpretive wildlife education center offers a wealth of Alaskan natural history displays and information. Expert handlers and naturalists have trained with these beautiful birds for many years and are eager to share their knowledge and experience. Knowledgeable naturalists and bird handlers on site educated us about these raptors and the numerous interpretive displays throughout the facility.

Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.

Check out today’s Chronicle.