Free Resources to plan your visit to Haines, Alaska
Quick message from the owners,
The Adventure Capital of Alaska can feel disorienting when planning a trip.
Many visitors aren’t sure where to start or how to reach the best adventures!
After the pandemic, I (Andrew, the owner) directed a local nonprofit focused on economic development, with tourism being a key part of our mission. Through interviews with visitors—whether cruise passengers, overlanders, or independent travelers—I discovered that many struggled to make the most of their time in Haines (known as Deishu in Tlingit). The common challenge? Finding where to go and what businesses were open.
In 2023, after acquiring a transportation rental business, my wife Tassja (co-owner) and I created these resources to help our guests experience as much of Haines/Deishu as possible, even if they only have a day or less. We’ve made these resources available to you below, and we hope they’ll help you make the most of your visit.
We’re excited to share the wonders of Haines/Deishu with you and hope you’ll fall in love with it just like we have. Enjoy your time in the Adventure Capital of Alaska!
Let's Plan your Trip!
You might have a day or less for the adventure of a lifetime, so let's get to it.
We recommend organizing your trip around the following four road systems.
Many adventures in Haines are connected to the road system. Whether arriving by cruise ship or on a road trip, the three highways and townsite can help you make the most of your time.
You can organize your visit into four sections based on your interests and how much time you spend at each spot.
In town/Fort Seward,
Lutak Road,
Mud Bay Road,
and Haines Highway.
Coming for a day or less:
On a cruise or passing through Haines on the Alaska Ferry System to the ALCAN Highway
For a day or less, we suggest splitting your time between Townsite/Fort Seward and Lutak Road. You’ll enjoy local restaurants, artist shops, and a scenic, short drive.
If you’d prefer more nature, spend a full day exploring the Haines Highway. This route passes through the Bald Eagle Preserve and Chilkat River Valley, with an optional detour to a stunning mountain pass beyond the Canadian border (passport required). Stop for a meal at 33 Mile Roadhouse. This trip takes a full day and may not suit cruise travelers.
Coming for a weekend/3 days:
A getaway trip to Haines, Alaska from Skagway, Juneau, or Whitehorse
For a day or less, we recommend splitting your time between Townsite/Fort Seward and Lutak Road. Enjoy local restaurants, artist shops, and a short, scenic drive.
For a nature-focused trip, spend a full day on the Haines Highway, passing through the Bald Eagle Preserve and Chilkat River Valley. If you have a passport, continue to the breathtaking mountain pass beyond the Canadian border. Consider stopping at 33 Mile Roadhouse for a meal. This full-day trip may not suit cruise passengers.
Coming for a week/5 days:
Coming to Haines for a wedding, vacation, or special event!
If you’re staying for five or more days, congratulations on a great decision! Consider dedicating a day to each location:
In Town/Fort Seward: Plan around local events and weather. Check the visitor center calendar, and don’t miss First Fridays for local art. Many shops have limited hours, so explore secret hikes like Kalgia Beach or Battery Point.
Mud Bay: Enjoy the Mount Riley hike, a picnic, or a kayak trip at Letnikof Cove. Consider art classes at Extreme Dreams Art Gallery, and catch glassblowing at Viking Cove on select days.
Lutak Road: Extend your time with fishing, kayaking, and boat tours. Gear and tours can be booked through local guides via the visitor center.
Haines Highway: Suitable for experienced outdoor travelers with reliable vehicles. Explore Porcupine or Chilkat Lake roads, but proceed with caution as these remote areas are mostly unpaved, with no cell service and potential hazards.