Haines is a true gem for anyone interested in experiencing Alaska’s wild side. Unlike many other destinations, Haines offers a perfect mix of accessible wilderness and intimate wildlife encounters. Whether you want to float among soaring bald eagles or spot brown bears by the river, Haines’s diverse tours make it a standout for outdoor lovers. We particularly love the Private Group Eagle Preserve Float Trip because it combines personalized service, expert guides, and the thrill of seeing Alaska’s iconic eagles up close—plus, it’s a half-day adventure perfect for a cruise stop or a day trip. For a broader wildlife experience that includes moose, otters, and bears, the Rafting to Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve from Haines offers a well-rounded, family-friendly option.
If wildlife viewing is your main goal, there’s plenty to choose from, but each tour offers a unique angle—some focus specifically on the eagles and river ecology, while others explore the surrounding wilderness. Now, let’s look at the best of what Haines has to offer.
1. Private Group Eagle Preserve Float Trip in Haines
At number 1, the Private Group Eagle Preserve Float Trip shines for its full customization and intimate experience. Priced at $1,800 per group (up to 8 people), this 5-hour adventure takes you into the heart of the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The tour is set on a private inflatable raft, allowing your group to witness the grandeur of the largest concentration of bald eagles feeding and nesting along the riverbanks.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexible schedule, with morning or afternoon departures and the inclusion of round-trip transport from your hotel or cruise port. The guides share their knowledge about eagle behavior, local ecosystems, and wildlife sightings—often including moose, otters, and even weasels. Reviewers highlight the guide’s expertise, noting Andy’s flexibility and knowledge, and describe the scenery as “beautiful” even in windy, rainy conditions. This tour is ideal for families or groups wanting a personal, relaxed experience with plenty of eagle sightings and natural history.
Bottom line: If you’re after a private, well-guided adventure with the chance to see a multitude of eagles and other wildlife, this tour offers unmatched intimacy and flexibility.
2. Rafting to Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve from Haines
Second on our list, the Rafting to Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve from Haines is a more affordable yet equally immersive option at $179 per person for about 4 hours. This tour emphasizes wildlife observation from a sturdy raft, with about 1.5 hours on the water exploring the preserve where the largest number of bald eagles gather during migration seasons.
This trip is well-suited for those wanting a family-friendly, guided wilderness outing that also highlights the region’s other native animals, such as moose, bears, and otters. The guides are praised for their knowledge, and the tour includes a stop for a scenic lunch, making it a full half-day adventure. Reviewers mention the opportunity to “track moose, wolves, and bears,” and appreciate the personal touch from the local operators.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking an affordable, wildlife-rich raft trip with the chance to see eagles and other animals, this tour offers excellent value and engaging scenery.
3. Chilkoot Wilderness and Wildlife Viewing (2.5 hrs in Haines)
Third, the Chilkoot Wilderness and Wildlife Viewing tour focuses on spotting bald eagles, harbor seals, and brown bears over a 2.5-hour trip. Led by a knowledgeable naturalist guide, this tour takes you through Chilkoot Lake State Park, known for its abundant wildlife and stunning vistas of snow-capped mountains.
What makes this trip distinct is its emphasis on education, with guides sharing insights about the local ecosystems and Tlingit cultural sites. The itinerary includes stops at Tanani Point and Chilkoot River, where wildlife is at its most active, especially during salmon runs. Reviewers praise Chad’s deep knowledge and the flexibility of the trip, noting successful eagle sightings and even a mama moose with her calves. The tour is ideal for nature lovers who want a shorter, educational outing.
Bottom line: This tour suits those interested in a compact, wildlife-focused experience with a naturalist guide and opportunities to learn about Alaska’s ecosystems.
4. Half-Day Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour
Coming in fourth, the Half-Day Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour offers a relaxed 4-hour adventure on the Chilkat River, with a scenic drive along the National Scenic Byway and a float on calm waters. For $169.79 per person, this tour combines a scenic drive past Fort Seward and along the river with a peaceful raft trip, during which you’ll look out for eagles, bears, moose, and wolves.
The tour’s highlight is the extensive eagle watching, with some reports mentioning spotting up to 35 eagles along the way. The guides provide rich commentary on the area’s natural history and wildlife. The float itself is designed for comfort and tranquility, making it perfect for travelers who want a leisurely experience with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities.
Reviewers appreciate the “friendly team” that makes everyone feel safe and the alluvial river scenery. It’s a good choice for those wanting a combination of scenic driving and a gentle river float.
Bottom line: If you prefer a scenic, less physically demanding trip with excellent eagle sightings, this float tour fits the bill.
5. 4 hours Haines Chilkoot Wilderness and Wildlife Tour
Finally, the 4 hours Haines Chilkoot Wilderness and Wildlife Tour offers a flexible half-day exploring Chilkoot Lake State Park. Starting with a naturalist-led drive, you’ll learn about the Lynn Canal’s ecosystems before heading into the park. The tour highlights wildflowers, eagles, salmon, and bears, especially from late July through September when bears feed on migrating salmon.
This tour is best for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at the area’s wildlife and scenery without a strenuous hike. It includes stops at Tanani Point, Chilkoot River, and Chilkoot Lake, where wildlife activity peaks during salmon runs. Although this tour has fewer reviews, it offers a detailed look at key habitats in the region.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a well-rounded wildlife and landscape overview in a convenient half-day format.
$147.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Haines Wildlife Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and specific wildlife interests. If you want a private, customizable experience, the Private Group Eagle Preserve Float Trip is unbeatable. For a more affordable, family-friendly outing with lots of eagle sightings, the Rafting to Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is excellent. Those interested in learning about ecosystems and seeing a variety of animals will find the Chilkoot Wilderness and Wildlife Viewing compelling, while the float tours are perfect for a relaxed day with scenic scenery.
Booking early is recommended, especially for tours with limited availability or specific wildlife seasons—like during the salmon runs. Consider your fitness level too; some trips involve paddling, while others are primarily scenic drives and gentle floats.
Final Thoughts
Haines offers a range of wildlife-focused tours that suit different interests and budgets. For an intimate, personalized experience, the private float trip is unbeatable. If you prefer a mix of scenic driving and wildlife watching, the Chilkat float or the Chilkoot wilderness tour are great choices. For pure eagle viewing with minimal fuss, the float tours deliver spectacular bird sightings.
No matter which tour you pick, be sure to book in advance—Alaska’s wildlife seasons are short, and these experiences fill up quickly. Prepare for cool weather and be ready for some of the most authentic wildlife encounters you can find in Alaska. These tours will leave you with stories to tell and memories of the wildest parts of Haines.