Departing from Skagway or Haines.
Break away from the crowds of Skagway for some kayaking in a true naturalist’s paradise – Haines, Alaska. The trip begins with a 45-minute catamaran ride along the steep-walled fjords, which connect Skagway to Haines.
Arrive in Haines and enjoy a seaside drive to Chilkoot Lake State Park. This park has it all–important Tlingit cultural sites, a salmon-filled river flowing into the sea, and a turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. We’ll keep an eye out for wildlife; bald eagles, brown bear, and migratory birds are often seen here.
Arrive at the lake, take in the scenery and board your sea kayak. Sea kayaking is easy to learn and your expert guide will show you the basics of paddling. Outfitted with the proper gear, you’ll soon be gliding silently along the shores of the lake. This pristine lake is uncrowded, and the scenery is spectacular. Huge waterfalls spill off of the cliffs surrounding the lake, lush green forests crowd the shoreline, and wildlife abounds. Pause at the base of one of these waterfalls where your guide will reveal the secret workings of the rainforest. Beginning in July, sockeye salmon spawn in one of the clear streams that feed into the lake. Eagle and bear are often attracted to this spot, and you’ll be able to view all the activity from your kayak.
Paddle back to shore and enjoy a snack before driving back to Haines. Once back in Haines, enjoy a guided driving tour of downtown Haines and historic Fort William H. Seward. Board the high-speed catamaran for your journey back to Skagway. Return to your ship filled with memories and photographs from an unforgettable adventure.
4 hours from Haines
6 hours from Skagway
Call 877 766 3516 (toll free) or contact us via email for departure times and pricing
2 person minimum
A Note from Joe
Why visit Haines with Rainbow Glacier Adventures? Haines is different. And Rainbow Glacier Adventures is unique.
Haines is a real Alaskan town with colorful characters, talented artists, pristine scenery, intact wildlife habitat and friendly local people. Haines is visited by one large cruise ship per week....many other towns have four or five big ships per day. Haines was listed by Outside Magazine and National Geographic Adventurer as one of the top towns in the United States to live and play. Haines has the most accessible bear-viewing in Southeast Alaska, and is famous for its huge population of Bald Eagles.
Haines is easily accessible from Skagway via a 45-minute catamaran ride. Many large cruise ships visit Skagway. Visiting Haines with Rainbow Glacier Adventures gives you a chance to break away from the crowds and experience a true Alaskan town with a tour company committed to high-quality, small group, educational travel. There are other small Alaskan towns not frequently visited by cruise ships. The problem is, they require tricky logistics or expensive arrangements to visit when on a cruise. Haines is easy to get to. Just call us and we'll make the arrangements.
Rainbow Glacier Adventures offers tours for discerning travelers. If you want to avoid the crowds and hype and enjoy a truly unique experience, give us a call. If your interest is art, natural history, the eclectic, or the remote, we have a tour for you. If you have a special interest like birding, photography, or adventure, let us know and we will arrange a custom package. You and your party will have the full attention of our professional guides-no crowds, no waiting, no rigid itinerary!
Believe me, I've traveled the world and Haines should not be missed. That's why I moved here twenty years ago and that's why I founded Rainbow Glacier Adventures.