Haines , United States

Full-Day Mount Riley Hike from Haines

Active

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Hike your way to the highest point on the Haines Peninsula atop Mt. Riley! This 6-hour, 5-8 mile adventure will take you up about 1,500 ft to a 360-degree view of the Lynn Canal. Throughout the hike we’ll enjoy some snacks and water on our way to the summit, then enjoy a picnic style lunch before descending back to the trailhead.

Available options

Full-Day Mount Riley Hike from Haines

What's included

Professional guide

Driver/guide

Lunch

Beverages

Hiking poles

Detailed itinerary

This half-day excursion begins with a short tour of the historic Fort Seward before embarking on a scenic drive to the Mt. Riley trailhead. Fort Seward was the first Army base in Alaska and still holds a commanding presence along the beachway.

Enjoy the simplicity and beauty of small-town Haines on your way into the temperate rainforest. 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.

We will hike within Chilkat State Park, a haven of woods, beaches, flora, and fauna.Your guide will regale you with local and natural history, point out the amazing growth along the trail, and keep an eye out for creatures like humpack whales breaching in the water, bald eagles flying overhead, and more!

Mt. Riley is the highest point on the Haines Peninsula. It is a strenuous day hike through mostly temperate rain forest. It has a gorgeous summit and several viewpoints throughout the hike.
Once at the trailhead, the hike begins over rolling terrain through temperate rainforest. After about ¼ mile, we start to gain elevation as we make our way up switchbacks through the forest. Throughout the hike, your knowledgeable naturalist guide will talk about the flora and fauna of the region. Depending on the exact route the total hiking distance is between 5-8 miles and the elevation gain is approximately 1,500ft to the summit, which is at 1,760ft.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required to operate

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

Your guide will meet you at the end of the pier holding a "Mount Riley Hike sign. Please arrive 15-minutes prior to fill out required paperwork.

Important notes

• Comfortable and stable hiking shoes are recommended
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant women

Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port

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.