Discover Haines, Alaska
Haines is a beloved destination framed by snow‑capped peaks, rushing rivers, and the deep blue Lynn Canal. This vibrant Southeast Alaska town draws birders, photographers, and outdoor lovers from around the globe.
As the gateway to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, Haines is home to one of the highest concentrations of bald eagles in the world. During peak season, you’ll see these iconic birds perched on riverbanks, soaring overhead, and diving for fish right before your eyes — often outnumbering the people in town.
But eagles are just the beginning. Haines is an outdoor playground with adventures at every turn — from kayaking fjords and river rafting to alpine hikes, world‑class fishing, and scenic trails that lead into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness. Quiet beaches, cascading waterfalls, and rich Tlingit cultural heritage give you plenty of room to explore, unwind, and connect with this special place.
Getting Here
Whether you’re chasing scenic views or fresh wilderness air, arriving in Haines is part of the adventure:
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Fly In: Book a flight with Alaska Seaplanes — Southeast Alaska’s commuter airline offering scheduled service to Haines from Juneau and other communities.
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State Ferry: Plan your trip with the Alaska Marine Highway System — Alaska’s public ferry network that connects coastal towns with vehicle and walk‑on service.
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Fast Ferries: For quick travel by sea between nearby towns:
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The Haines Skagway Fast Ferry runs multiple daily crossings between Haines and Skagway.
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The Alaska Fjordlines Fjord Express offers a scenic fast ferry and whale‑watching service between Haines, Skagway, and Juneau.
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Road Access: Travelers driving from Canada or interior Alaska can check real‑time highway conditions using 511 Alaska and 511 Yukon before heading out.
Getting around town is easy too — parking is plentiful and we offer door‑to‑door service from any local hotel, B&B, airport, or ferry terminal so your adventure can begin the moment you arrive.
From Skagway, Alaska
Skagway, the northernmost town on the Lynn Canal, is a historic Gold Rush gateway and the final stop for many Alaska cruise ships. Though Haines and Skagway are only about 19 miles apart as the crow flies, the winding roads make the drive nearly 360 miles — giving travelers plenty of scenic vistas along the way.
Several transportation options connect Haines, Skagway, and Juneau, and all of them offer breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Choose the mode of travel that best fits your schedule and sense of adventure:
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By Air: Flights between Haines and Skagway take roughly 15 minutes, while the journey from Haines to Juneau is about an hour. The short flights offer incredible aerial views of fjords, rivers, and the surrounding Coast Mountains — a quick but unforgettable perspective of Southeast Alaska.
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By Ferry: The ferry ride between Haines and Skagway takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, while the Alaska Marine Highway service from Haines to Juneau takes nearly 6 hours. Ferries provide a relaxed, comfortable way to travel and often include opportunities to spot whales, seals, and eagles along the route. Book tickets through the Alaska Marine Highway System.
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By Fast Ferry Tours: During peak season, Alaska Fjordlines runs daily tours from Skagway to Juneau. These trips combine scenic cruising with guided whale watching, making it a memorable half-day adventure on the water. For frequent short trips between Haines and Skagway, check the schedule for the Haines Skagway Fast Ferry.
Whether you prefer the speed and convenience of a flight, the calm and comfort of a ferry ride, or a guided scenic cruise, the journey itself is part of the Alaska experience.
From Juneau, Alaska
Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is the primary jumping-off point for most travel in Southeast Alaska. While it’s not connected to the road system, Juneau is the nearest major airport for reaching Haines and Skagway. It is serviced by major carriers including Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines, as well as numerous commuter flights to smaller regional airports.
Several transportation options connect Juneau to Haines and Skagway:
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By Air: Flying in small 5- to 10-passenger aircraft is the fastest way to reach the surrounding area. Flights from Juneau to Haines or Skagway typically take 45 minutes to 1 hour, offering stunning aerial views of fjords, glaciers, and mountains. Many local operators can be booked through Alaska Seaplanes.
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By Ferry: The Alaska Marine Highway System provides daily ferry service between Juneau, Haines, and Skagway. The ferry is slower but less expensive than flying, and it offers a scenic, relaxing journey through the fjords. Travel times are approximately 4.5 hours to Haines and an additional 1.5 hours to Skagway. Passengers often enjoy whale watching, eagles, and the breathtaking coastal landscape along the route.
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By Scenic Fast Ferry: During peak season, Alaska Fjordlines offers daily guided tours from Juneau to Skagway. These trips combine scenic cruising with whale watching and expert commentary, making it a memorable half-day adventure on the water.
Whether you choose the speed of a flight, the calm comfort of a ferry, or a guided scenic cruise, traveling through Juneau is a quintessential part of exploring Southeast Alaska.
From Whitehorse, Yukon
Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon, is a common starting point for travelers heading to Southeast Alaska. The journey to Haines combines some of the most scenic landscapes in North America, passing through mountains, rivers, and forests along the famous Haines Highway.
Several options connect Whitehorse to Haines, depending on your schedule and preferred travel style:
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By Road: Driving the Alaska-Canada Highway (Alcan) to the Haines Highway is an adventure in itself. The highway stretches approximately 250 miles from Whitehorse to Haines, winding through rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and the stunning Kluane National Park region. Travelers often spot wildlife such as moose, eagles, and bears along the route. Check road conditions before your trip on 511 Yukon.
The drive from Whitehorse to Haines is more than just transportation — it’s a chance to experience some of the most spectacular wilderness in North America. This route is a highlight of any Southeast Alaska road trip.
