Haines, Alaska: Eagles, Ferries, and the Road to the Yukon
Haines occupies a narrow stretch of land at the northern end of the Lynn Canal, the longest and deepest fjord in North America. The borough has approximately 1,713 residents and serves as one of only three Southeast Alaska communities with road access to the interior. The Haines Highway climbs from sea level through the Chilkat Pass to the Canadian border, connecting to the Alaska Highway at Haines Junction in the Yukon Territory.
The Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, stretching along the Chilkat River north of town, protects one of the world's largest gatherings of bald eagles. Each fall, between October and February, thousands of eagles congregate along the river to feed on a late run of chum salmon sustained by warm upwellings that keep portions of the river from freezing. The spectacle draws photographers and wildlife watchers from around the world.
Haines has a quieter character than nearby Skagway, which receives far more cruise ship traffic. Fort William H. Seward, a decommissioned Army post at the south end of town, has been converted into residences, galleries, and small businesses. The Hammer Museum, dedicated to the history of hammers, is an oddity that fits the town's eclectic sensibility. The Southeast Alaska State Fair, held each summer, is a regional event combining livestock shows, music, and local food.
The Alaska Marine Highway provides ferry service connecting Haines to Juneau, Skagway, and other Southeast communities. Fishing, tourism, and government employment form the economic base, supplemented by a growing arts community.
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Haines occupies a narrow stretch of land at the northern end of the Lynn Canal, the longest and deepest fjord in North America. The borough has approximately 1,713 residents and serves as one of only three Southeast Alaska communities with road access to the interior. The Haines Highway climbs from sea level through the Chilkat Pass to the Canadian border, connecting to the Alaska Highway at Haines Junction in the Yukon Territory.
The Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, stretching along the Chilkat River north of town, protects one of the world's largest gatherings of bald eagles. Each fall, between October and February, thousands of eagles congregate along the river to feed on a late run of chum salmon sustained by warm upwellings that keep portions of the river from freezing. The spectacle draws photographers and wildlife watchers from around the world.
Haines has a quieter character than nearby Skagway, which receives far more cruise ship traffic. Fort William H. Seward, a decommissioned Army post at the south end of town, has been converted into residences, galleries, and small businesses. The Hammer Museum, dedicated to the history of hammers, is an oddity that fits the town's eclectic sensibility. The Southeast Alaska State Fair, held each summer, is a regional event combining livestock shows, music, and local food.
The Alaska Marine Highway provides ferry service connecting Haines to Juneau, Skagway, and other Southeast communities. Fishing, tourism, and government employment form the economic base, supplemented by a growing arts community.
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