Half-Day Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour
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Half-Day Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour

Active
(33 reviews)
4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The world-famous Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve boasts the largest gathering of bald eagles anywhere in the world! Your adventure begins with a spectacular drive along the National Scenic Byway through the awe-inspiring Chilkat Valley to the heart of the preserve. After a riverside picnic you will board 18-foot inflatable rafts and enjoy a peaceful float (no whitewater) down this ever-changing river.

Watch for eagles, bears, moose, and wolves who frequent the preserve to feed on the plentiful spawning salmon. With 7,000-foot-tall peaks towering above as you drift through picturesque landscapes, floating down the river is the best way to take in the grandeur of Alaska.

After your river trip, enjoy homemade cookies and hot and cold drinks by riverbank before boarding your bus back to Haines.

This is an unforgettable adventure into the wilderness of Alaska!

**Wildlife sightings not a guarantee**

Available options

Departure Times

Varies: This tour's departure time will depend on date availability. Please reach out to us to receive departure time.
Thank you!

What's included

Rubber boots
Professional guide
Driver/guide
Lunch
Beverages
Rain ponchos if necessary
PFD (personal flotation device)

Detailed itinerary

1

Enjoy the simplicity and beauty of small-town Haines on your way to your rafting adventure. 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.

2

Check out Fort Seward (Alaska's first Army post) on your way through Haines to begin your rafting adventure. Check out the historic structures that were formerly Army barracks stacked next to the picturesque Port Chilkoot overlooking the Lynn Canal.

3

You will board a motor coach for a beautiful 40-minute drive up the Haines Highway, which is a National Scenic Byway. Watch for moose and swans in the marshlands as you head up the Chilkat River Valley, and always keep an eye out for bears!

4
Stop 4

At the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, you'll experience the largest gathering of bald eagles in the world! Your specially-trained guides await to begin your rafting adventure (a gentle float, no whitewater!). You’ll float peacefully down the river aboard an 18-foot inflatable raft - the best way to observe the eagles drawn to feed on the plentiful salmon. Bears and wolves are also occasional guests at the feast. Not only rich in wildlife, the preserve is also a place of incredible beauty, with towering mountains, hanging glaciers and lush forests. After your hour and a half float, you will enjoy a riverside picnic lunch on the banks of the river.

5

You’ll float peacefully down the river aboard an 18-foot inflatable raft on one of three rivers - the Chilkat, the Klehini, and the Tsirku. Rafting is the best way to observe the eagles drawn to feed on the plentiful salmon. Bears and wolves are also occasional guests at the feast. Not only rich in wildlife, the preserve is also a place of incredible beauty, with towering mountains, hanging glaciers and lush forests.

6

You’ll float peacefully down the river aboard an 18-foot inflatable raft on one of three rivers - the Chilkat, the Klehini, and the Tsirku. Rafting is the best way to observe the eagles drawn to feed on the plentiful salmon. Bears and wolves are also occasional guests at the feast. Not only rich in wildlife, the preserve is also a place of incredible beauty, with towering mountains, hanging glaciers and lush forests.

7

You’ll float peacefully down the river aboard an 18-foot inflatable raft on one of three rivers - the Chilkat, the Klehini, and the Tsirku. Rafting is the best way to observe the eagles drawn to feed on the plentiful salmon. Bears and wolves are also occasional guests at the feast. Not only rich in wildlife, the preserve is also a place of incredible beauty, with towering mountains, hanging glaciers and lush forests.

8

You’ll float peacefully down the river aboard an 18-foot inflatable raft on one of three rivers - the Chilkat, the Klehini, and the Tsirku. Rafting is the best way to observe the eagles drawn to feed on the plentiful salmon. Bears and wolves are also occasional guests at the feast. Not only rich in wildlife, the preserve is also a place of incredible beauty, with towering mountains, hanging glaciers and lush forests.

9

Klukwan is one of the largest communities of Tlingits (Alaska native people groups) still in existence, located twenty-two miles north of Haines. Klukwan sits on the banks of the Chilkat River.

The name Klukwan is taken from the Tlingit phrase "Tlakw Aan" which literally means "Eternal Village." The site was chosen because of the rich natural environment found here, including the salmon runs.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.8
5 reviews
5★
2
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor 4.4
28 reviews
5★
23
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
4

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
100% Refund will be provided if cancelled before 14 days of tour departure date
50% Refund will be provided if cancelled 14 days to 4 days prior to departure time
No Refunds will be provided if cancelled within 96 hours of tour departure time

Meeting point

Chilkoot Indian Association Dock - 1 Block south from Port Chilkoot Dock (Main Cruise Ship Dock)

Important notes

Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port
Please make sure to double check your departure times and meeting details 24-hours before your departure date.
Thank you!

About Haines

Haines, known as the 'Adventure Coast,' is a picturesque town in Alaska located on the northern end of the Lynn Canal. It offers stunning natural beauty, rich wildlife, and a variety of outdoor activities. The town is a gateway to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve and the Tlingit culture.

Top Attractions

Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

This preserve is home to one of the largest concentrations of bald eagles in the world, particularly from October to December.

Nature Half day to full day Free

Haines State Recreation Area

This recreational area offers beautiful beaches, camping sites, and water activities like kayaking and fishing.

Nature Half day to full day Free to $25 for camping

Hammer Museum

This unique museum showcases a collection of over 1,000 hammers from around the world, along with local history exhibits.

Historical 1-2 hours Donation based

Must-Try Local Dishes

King Crab

Freshly caught king crab, often served steamed or in a variety of dishes.

Dinner Gluten-free options available

Salmon

Alaskan salmon, grilled or smoked, is a local specialty.

Dinner Gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Fishing Beachcombing Wildlife viewing Scenic drives Museum visits Local art galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the best time to visit Haines for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and pleasant weather. The days are long, and the landscape is lush and green.

10°C to 20°C 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKST - UTC-9, AKDT - UTC-8)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Haines is a safe destination with low crime rates, but standard precautions should be taken.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of wildlife, especially bears, when hiking.
  • • Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
  • • Dress in layers for changing weather conditions.

Getting there

By air
  • Haines Airport • 5 miles from city center
By bus

Haines Ferry Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The shuttle service is available for transport within the town and to some nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Haines Port Chilkoot

Day trips

Skagway
60 miles • Full day

A historic gold rush town with a rich past and scenic views.

Juneau
90 miles • Full day

The capital of Alaska, offering a mix of cultural attractions and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Chilkat Bald Eagle Festival • November Haines Arts Festival • July

Pro tips

  • Visit the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve in November for the best eagle viewing.
  • Explore the Hammer Museum for a unique and quirky experience.
  • Take a ferry or seaplane to nearby towns like Skagway and Juneau for a day trip.
  • Book accommodations and transportation in advance during peak season and festivals.
  • Dress in layers for changing weather conditions.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 15-99
1
Childs
Age 7-14
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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