Ever heard the saying, "If you don't like the weather, wait five minutes"? Well, that's the kind of place we call home here in Haines, Alaska. Nestled within the lush greenery of the Tongass National Forest, Haines sits in a unique microclimate that's part of the world's largest temperate rainforest. So, when it rains (which it sometimes does), we don't let it dampen our spirits. Instead, we embrace it or seek shelter while finding plenty of ways to have fun!
EMBRACE It
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Backcountry Disc Golf: Challenge yourself to a round of disc golf at Raven’s Bowl disc golf course. Rain or shine, this rugged terrain promises an exciting game for players of all skill levels. Free gear available for day use from the Fair office. Located at Southeast Alaska State Fairgrounds, Fair Drive.
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Bike Adventure: Feel the thrill of biking in the rain as you pedal along Lutak Road towards Chilkoot Lake. The well-paved roads and misty surroundings create a unique biking experience. Bike rentals are available from Sockeye Cycle or Kat and Koot.
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Historic Fort Seward: Wander through the misty yesteryears of Historic Fort Seward on a self-guided walking tour. Established to bring order to the Gold Rush chaos and to assert a military presence during a boundary dispute with Canada, Fort William H. Seward was completed in 1904 and offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's storied past.
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Rainy Hike: Who says a little rain can't make a hike more adventurous? Throw on your rain gear and hit one of Haines' scenic trails. The misty atmosphere adds a magical touch to the lush landscapes.
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Skateboard Park: Seek shelter from the rain at Haines Skateboard Park, where you can shred some ramps and obstacles. Plus, you'll get to admire the vibrant mural art created by Haines school students. Located at Haines Highway at Sawmill Road.
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Takshanuk Mountain Trail: Join a guided wilderness adventure to Takshanuk Mountain Trail, where you can ride a 4X4 Kawasaki 'Mule' and enjoy panoramic views of the Lutak Inlet. Don't forget to indulge in a delicious halibut lunch at the rustic lodge. Located on 7 Mile Lutak Road.
Seek Shelter
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American Bald Eagle Foundation: Take refuge from the rain at the American Bald Eagle Foundation, where you can embark on a natural history tour and witness a captivating live raptor presentation. Located at Haines Highway & Second Avenue.
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Haines Borough Public Library: Delve into the literary world at the award-winning Haines Borough Public Library. Explore its vast collection and find a cozy corner to escape into a good book. Located at 111 3rd Ave.
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Haines Sheldon Museum: Escape the rain and immerse yourself in the local history of the Valley at the Haines Sheldon Museum. Discover artifacts, artwork, and stories that bring the region's past to life. Located at First & Main.
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Hammer Museum: Dive into the quirky world of hammers at the Hammer Museum, where over 2500 hammers reveal the fascinating history of humankind. Located on Main Street.
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Harbor Bar: Escape the rain at the Harbor Bar, a historic gem built in 1907. Known as a "card room" during Prohibition, this spot boasts a bar brought from Skagway during the Gold Rush era. Enjoy a game of shuffleboard with a friend or a local and soak in the rich history. Located at Front Street and the end of Main Street.
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Sample Local Spirits: Seek shelter from the rain at Port Chilkoot Distillery, where you can sample award-winning spirits in Historic Fort Seward. Head to Main Street to visit Haines Brewing Company and the Three Northmen, a tasting room serving locally made mead, cider, and sodas.
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Warm Up with Coffee: Head over to Mountain Market, where you can enjoy a cup of organic, fair trade coffee at their espresso bar. Home to Ripinsky Roasters, Mountain Market offers a cozy spot to relax and warm up. Located at 3rd Avenue & Haines Highway.
No matter the weather, there's always something exciting to do in Haines, Alaska. So, whether you choose to embrace the rain or seek shelter indoors, you're guaranteed a memorable experience in our charming rainforest town.
