Chilkoot Lake Nature and Wildlife Viewing - 6.5 hrs from Skagway

Leave the crowds of Skagway behind and visit Chilkoot Lake State Park in Haines. Your tour begins with a high-speed catamaran ride along the steep-walled fjords which connect Skagway to Haines. Over a dozen unnamed waterfalls drop hundreds of feet from both sides of the boat. Upon arrival in Haines, you will meet your knowledgeable guide for a drive to Chilkoot Lake State Park. This park has it all: a turquoise lake surrounded by snowy mountain peaks, a salmon-filled river flowing into the sea, and important Tlingit cultural sights. Bald eagles, harbor seals, and brown bears are often seen here.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   45 min

   Travel to and from Haines on a high-speed catamaran along steep-walled fjords at the northern end of the Lynn Canal. Over a dozen unnamed waterfalls drop hundreds of feet from both sides of the boat. This is a 45 minute journey each way with a naturalist on board to highlight the sights. Our representative will assist you with boarding and your tour guide will meet you in Haines for the tour to the Chilkoot Lake.

2. 2

   Haines

   15 min

   Visit a true naturalist’s paradise - Haines, Alaska. Haines boasts some of the most pristine wild country in Southeast Alaska. Your expert naturalist guide will share their knowledge of this area’s unique wildlife, plants, and ecosystems.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   15 min

   Pause on your way to the Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site to learn about the Lynn Canal ecosystem and get a safety briefing about being in bear country.

4. 4

   Chilkoot River

   1 hour

   In May, June and July, the wildflowers are at their peak and eagles are busy caring for their young on the nest. Beginning in late July, the river fills with migrating salmon, while brown bears come down to the river’s edge to feed. As the number of salmon in the river increases, the likelihood of seeing bears down along the river increases, with a good probability of bear sightings from early August through late September.

5. 5

   Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Area

   1 hour

   As you drive through the park, your guide knows the best places to stop for scenery and the possibility of wildlife spotting. Your guide is equipped with a powerful spotting scope to bring the wildlife in close, and your guide will help interpret the behavior of the various wildlife and explain how the animals fit into the Chilkoot’s complex ecosystem. Make sure you bring your camera to take advantage of the numerous photo opportunities.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   30 min

   Nukdik Point is one of the many scenic places to stop for lunch. Across the water the seaside town of Haines will be spread before you with the stunning backdrop of the Chilkat Mountains.

7. 7

   Fort William H. Seward National Historic Landmark

   Pass by

   Fort William H Seward overlooks the Port Chilkoot Cruise Ship Dock. Built by the US Army in 1904, the fort has a storied past and is now privately owned and maintained.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Children must be accompanied by an adult

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.