Battery Point Trail, nestled in the heart of Haines, Alaska, is a beloved path that winds through the verdant Alaskan rainforest, crossing gentle streams before leading adventurers to a stunning rocky beach. Easily accessible from the cruise ship dock or town, the trailhead lies a mere 1.5 miles from the Port Chilkoot Cruise Ship dock. For those more inclined to pedal power, a short bike ride to the trailhead is a popular option, with cyclists stowing their wheels upon arrival. However, for families with eager young explorers, like ours, the convenience of driving is unmatched, sparing us the impatience that often accompanies little legs. The hike itself is relatively easy, taking around 40 minutes with children in tow, culminating in the pebbled beach just before Kelgaya Point—a haven for skipping rocks and crafting driftwood swords.
In the early days of spring, the trail can be unpredictable, sometimes muddied by melting snow or slickened by lingering ice. Yet, on our recent excursion, nature favored us with minimal obstacles, granting us a blissful four-hour Sunday-Funday. While wildlife sightings are rare this early in the season, our boisterous troop of young adventurers ensures that the forest echoes with laughter and chatter, obviating any concern about solitude. We trek alongside the loudest of nature’s creatures—the exuberant children armed with walkie-talkies, broadcasting their joy with every step. Amidst the cacophony, a lesson in radio etiquette looms on the horizon, but for now, we revel in the joyful chaos, knowing that in these woods, every tree falling is sure to be heard.
It's common to encounter moose with their young this time of year, so hikers should exercise caution. Cow moose, in particular, can be fiercely defensive, posing a potential danger. This vigilance is especially important if your journey takes you beyond Kelgaya point to Battery point, where moose sightings are more frequent. Brown bears are rare sightings in this area, locals suggest they prefer other parts of the peninsula. Despite our heightened awareness in Alaska's wilderness, our trek only reveals fleeting glimpses of chipmunks and sporadic ice patches amidst the rejuvenating greenery reclaiming the landscape from winter's grip.
Upon reaching the beach, a new chapter of our adventure unfolds. Driftwood becomes treasure to be gathered, lessons in campfire building are imparted, and the air fills with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling hotdogs over an open flame. We indulged in the decadence of s'mores cookies compliments of the Haines Girl Scout Troop, a sweet reward for our wilderness exploits while taking in the breathtaking views that stretch before us.
As the afternoon begins to linger, we reluctantly acknowledge the call of home. Our midday hike under the crisp spring sun was refreshingly brief, spanning around four hours in total, most of which was dedicated to play and relaxation. The journey back through the forest feels somehow longer, the uphill stretches more demanding, as fatigue tugs at our children. Yet, amidst the quiet murmur of tired footsteps, there is a sense of contentment—an afternoon well spent, memories made, awaiting the embrace of quietude upon our return. As we soaked in the coastal beauty, the cares of the world seemed distant, another world away.
Life is good.
Simple, as intended.
