Skagway, Haines, Juneau, Ketchikan & Sitka

For the adventurous, Skagway has an excellent trail system that begins just blocks from the downtown area and allows hikers to trek to alpine lakes, waterfalls, even the graves of Skagway’s most notorious residents, Soapy Smith and Frank Reid.

The historic White Pass & Yukon Route railroad provides tours to the top of the mountain pass north of town. Seated in parlour cars, passengers ride up the most spectacular part of the trip viewing scenery such as Glacier Gorge, Dead Horse Gulch and Bridal Veil Falls. At the top they see the White Pass at 2,885 feet, which is also the international boundary between the United States and Canada.

In the summer take part in spectacular hikes, rafting journeys on the Chilkat River, kayaking adventures on Chilkoot Lake, exhilarating jet boat rides, guided nature walks and many more activities. Plus, don’t forget about fishing for Alaska’s Pacific salmon. Haines is home to both black and brown bears. The Chilkoot River flows from Chilkoot Lake into Lutak Inlet and is one of the most easily reached bear viewing spots in Southeast Alaska from mid-June to October. Moose are another highlight for wildlife viewing in the Haines area. Moose can be seen anywhere in the valley, sometimes even in downtown!

In November, Haines hosts the annual Alaska Bald Eagle Festival. Starting in September through early December Haines welcomes over 3,500 Bald Eagles to the beautiful Chilkat River Valley. Spectators from around the world come to partake in this fascinating migratory event. Cross country skiing, snow machining, snow-shoeing, ice skating, ice fishing, and hunting are only some of the many things to do during the winter months. You may even catch a glimpse of the northern lights! For the true adventurer, Haines is world-renowned for its Heli-skiing. Haines is Alaska's deep, steep, spine-covered snow heaven. The lines are among the most famous—and most desired—in the world. Steep, gnarly lines (many over 5,000 vertical feet) and scenic powder runs will keep your hearts racing and will give you the experience of a lifetime.

Visiting Ketchikan, Alaska, can be a captivating experience due to its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities. Ketchikan is a frequent stop for Alaskan cruises, making it easily accessible. The port area is lively and offers many tours and excursions for cruise passengers.

Ketchikan is known as the "Totem Capital of the World." You can explore the largest collection of standing totem poles in places like Totem Bight State Historical Park and Saxman Native Village. Learn about the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples through cultural tours, performances, and museums, such as the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center and the Totem Heritage Center.

Surrounded by the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world, Ketchikan offers lush forests, waterfalls, and stunning coastal scenery. A short boat or plane ride away, Misty Fjords National Monument features dramatic fjords, towering cliffs, and pristine wilderness. It’s perfect for kayaking, sightseeing cruises, and flightseeing tours.

Sitka is located on Baranof Island, surrounded by the Tongass National Forest and the Pacific Ocean. The town is known for its dramatic mountain scenery, lush forests, and beautiful coastline. It is a fantastic place to see a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, sea otters, whales, and bears. Whale-watching tours and wildlife excursions provide opportunities to observe these animals in their natural habitats.

Sitka was the capital of Russian America and retains a strong Russian cultural influence. Historical sites like St. Michael's Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox church, and the Russian Bishop's House offer insights into this period. The native Tlingit people have a rich cultural heritage in Sitka. The Sitka National Historical Park (Totem Park) showcases Tlingit totem poles, cultural exhibits, and offers ranger-led programs about Tlingit history and traditions. Visit the Sitka Historical Museum and the Sheldon Jackson Museum to learn more about the area’s diverse history, from indigenous cultures to Russian colonization and American settlement.