About this experience
Haines is home to magnificent wildlife and breathtaking views of the natural world! With an experienced naturalist as your guide, you will see and learn about the plants and animals that make up the ‘wilds’ of Alaska.
The Chilkoot River is home to some of the best bear viewing in Alaska! The river’s huge salmon runs bring good numbers of bears every year. Situated among rugged glaciated peaks, it is home to numerous brown bears, mountain goats, salmon, river otters, and innumerable bald eagles. This area is a birdwatchers paradise with abundant local and migratory birds. Powerful spotting scopes or binoculars allow close-range views of mountain goats grazing in high alpine meadows and nesting eagles.
**Wildlife sightings not a guarantee**
At a glance
- Duration: 6 hr 30 min
Plan your experience
Set aside 6 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Spotting Scopes
- Professional guide
- Driver/guide
- Picnic Lunch
- Beverages
- Coffee and/or Tea
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
Your guide will help you onto the ferry for a comfortable 45 minute narrated scenic ride across the Lynn Canal to Haines.
Enjoy the simplicity and beauty of small-town Haines on your way to Chilkoot Lake. Along the way, your guides will regale you with local natural history, geology, and Gold Rush tales as they point out snow-capped peaks, thick timber forests, and the abundant wildlife.
The Chilkoot River Valley offers incredible wildlife viewing. Brown Bears, eagles, mountain goats, and spawning salmon are commons sights. Our guides are expert naturalists and enjoy sharing their love and knowledge of the Alaskan wilderness.
At Chilkoot Lake, we will provide powerful spotting scopes or binoculars to allow close-range views of mountain goats grazing in high alpine meadows and nesting eagles.
Meeting and pickup information
- If you are not arriving on a cruise ship, Please meet your guide at the Small Boat Harbor 15 minutes prior to departure time to fill out required paperwork.
- Your guide will meet you at the end of the pier where your ship is in port. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time to fill out required paperwork.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Alaska Mountain Guides Adventures, inc. Chilkat Guides Ltd
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- A minimum of 4 people is required to operate
- We can accommodate dietary restrictions with 48 hours advanced notice.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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