Excursion Haines highlights & native culture experience tour at Haines

Explore the fascinating Chilkat Valley with visits to some of the area's top attractions.

Your knowledgeable guide will meet you at the dock and escort you to the motor coach. Hop aboard to begin your journey into the Chilkat Valley’s rich local and native cultures, captivating history, and breathtaking mountain and ocean vistas. Your experience starts with a narrated driving tour 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 glimpse into life in Haines during the early 1900s. After a brief tour of Haines, enjoy a scenic 40-minute drive along the Haines Highway, part of the National Scenic Byway, through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.

Your destination is Klukwan, the only remaining village of the Chilkat Tlingit people. Situated at the confluence of three rivers, this ancient village has supported generations of Tlingit inhabitants, who have lived here for thousands of years in harmony with the land. Your visit includes exploring the Jilkaat Kwaan Cultural Heritage & Bald Eagle Preserve Visitor Center, a state-of-the-art facility set in a stunning natural landscape on the northern banks of the Chilkat River. The center offers access to remarkable artifacts and exhibits, including the Whale House Collection—displayed in its traditional setting—and insights into the rich cultural landscape of the Chilkat Tlingit. As you tour this world-class center, you'll learn about Tlingit society, art, and traditions, with many visitors noting that the people are among the most memorable aspects of the experience.

After your time in Klukwan, you'll re-board the motor coach for a relaxing return to town, where you'll visit the American Bald Eagle Foundation’s Raptor Center. This educational facility showcases Alaskan raptors and offers engaging interpretive displays and live demonstrations led by expert naturalists and bird handlers. You'll gain insight into these majestic birds and Alaska’s natural history.

Finally, a short transfer will take you back to your ship, bringing your enriching day in the Chilkat Valley to a close.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Jilkaat Kwaan Heritage Center, Village of Klukwan, American Bald Eagle Raptor Center & Natural History Museum, Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, Haines Packing Company, Haines Highway (National Scenic Byway), Fort Seward

Note

Please note: Order of activities may change depending upon weather, river conditions and departure time. This tour involves moderate activity, including walking over uneven, gravelly surfaces and standing for periods of up to 15 minutes. There is approximately 110 meters of walking with up to three steps to embark and disembark from the tour vehicle. This tour is not accessible for wheelchairs; guests must be able to get in and out of the tour vehicles without assistance. Tour vehicles are not ADA compliant but can accommodate collapsible wheelchairs and scooters weighing less than 50 lbs. Guests must sign a waiver to participate on this tour. Due to cultural sensitivities, some photography restrictions may apply at Klukwan. Guests are recommended to dress warmly in layers and wear comfortable shoes for walking. Guests may also want to bring a camera, binoculars and an extra layer. Space on this tour is somewhat limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.