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Haines State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · AK

Haines State Forest

Haines State Forest in Alaska offers an expansive wilderness experience with a diverse range of outdoor activities amidst stunning natural beauty.

State Forest286,0004+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

286,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Haines State Forest

Haines State Forest in Alaska offers an expansive wilderness experience with a diverse range of outdoor activities amidst stunning natural beauty.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Haines State Forest spans over half a million acres of rich Alaskan wilderness, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in a landscape of rugged mountains, dense forests, and pristine rivers. Established to sustainably manage forest resources, the area is a significant hub for outdoor recreation. The forest provides habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including bear, moose, and a variety of bird species, making it a prime location for wildlife viewing and photography. Recreational opportunities abound with numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, scenic rivers for fishing and paddling, and winter trails for snow sports. Haines State Forest is not just about recreation; it is also a site of historical and cultural significance, with nearby areas offering insights into the region's indigenous culture and early settlers. The forest is a vital resource for both locals and visitors who appreciate its ecological diversity, recreation options, and the sense of solitude it provides.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Haines State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Nature Wonders of Haines State Forest★ 8.4⌖ 15 miHiking
Haines State Forest

Nature Wonders of Haines State Forest

Explore the vast Haines State Forest in Alaska, spanning over 286,000 acres. With stunning views of mountains and lakes, it's perfect for hiking and wildlife watching. Visit between late spring and early fall for the best experience.

Cascading Beauty at Upper Reid Falls★ 8.1⌖ 17 miHiking
Upper Reid Falls

Cascading Beauty at Upper Reid Falls

Visit Upper Reid Falls in Skagway, Alaska. Enjoy a scenic hike with historical exploration. Located in Tongass National Forest, it's best visited in summer. Ideal for photographers and nature lovers.

Chasing Cascades at Lower Reid Falls★ 7.8⌖ 17 miHiking
Lower Reid Falls

Chasing Cascades at Lower Reid Falls

Visit Lower Reid Falls near Skagway, AK, for an easy hike and enjoy stunning waterfalls and historical insights. The short trail from Gold Rush Cemetery is family-friendly and perfect for wildlife watching. Best experienced from late spring to early autumn.

Discover the Majestic Pitchfork Falls in Skagway, Alaska★ 7.6⌖ 22 miView Waterfall
Pitchfork Falls

Discover the Majestic Pitchfork Falls in Skagway, Alaska

Explore the magnificent Pitchfork Falls near Skagway, Alaska. Viewable by train or drive-in, this site is perfect for photography and nature appreciation. Capture stunning visuals during spring and summer when snowmelt peaks, and watch for bald eagles as you explore.

View WaterfallView Details→
Glacial Wonder in Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier (Áakʼw Tʼáak Sítʼ)★ 9.2⌖ 64 miHiking
Mendenhall Glacier (Áakʼw Tʼáak Sítʼ)

Glacial Wonder in Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier (Áakʼw Tʼáak Sítʼ)

Located near Juneau, Alaska, Mendenhall Glacier offers an easy hike with scenic views of blue ice, Nugget Falls, and wildlife. Accessible year-round but best in late spring to early fall, visitors can also enjoy kayaking and helicopter tours for unique glacier perspectives.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Chilkoot Lake - a breathtaking location for fishing and wildlife viewing✦ Lutak Inlet - known for spotting orcas and seals✦ Takshanuk Mountain Trail - a challenging trek offering panoramic views✦ Mosquito Lake - a serene spot perfect for kayaking and bird watching
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Haines State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Haines State Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Haines State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Haines State Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Haines State Forest
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Haines State Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Haines State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Haines State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Haines State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fee; however, permits may be required for certain activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Haines State Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Chilkoot Lake Campground

Located near Chilkoot Lake, offers basic amenities and excellent fishing access.

Mosquito Lake Campground

Quiet and remote, this site is ideal for those seeking solitude and stunning views.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Haines State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Lutak
⌖ 8.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lutak, Alaska

A quiet coastal town offering rugged wilderness access, pristine waterways, and stunning mountain views for adventurous travelers seeking solitude and nature immersion.

June through September for hiking and paddling; December through March for winter sportsExplore Town
Gustavus
⌖ 57.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gustavus, Alaska

An Alaskan gateway to wild landscapes and marine wonders, offering outdoor enthusiasts unforgettable natural experiences.

Atlin
⌖ 65.72 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Atlin, British Columbia

A remote northern town offering rugged wilderness adventures, pristine lakes, and vast mountain landscapes ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and exploration.

Late spring to early fall for hiking and paddling; winter through early spring for snowmobilingExplore Town
Carcross
⌖ 69.42 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Carcross, Yukon

A historic northern town offering unique access to diverse landscapes, perfect for exploring wilderness, cultural heritage, and rugged adventures year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and snow adventureExplore Town
Juneau
⌖ 74.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Juneau, Alaska

A picturesque coastal town with striking wilderness and abundant wildlife, offering a rich variety of outdoor adventures amidst majestic glaciers and rainforests.

Mount Lorne
⌖ 77.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mount Lorne, Yukon

A peaceful rural community that offers rustic wilderness access just minutes from Whitehorse, perfect for nature lovers seeking quiet trails and backcountry adventures.

Late Spring to Early Fall and WinterExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Haines State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Exclusive Chilkat Photography Tour- Skagway Departure | Photography Tour in Haines, AlaskaHaines, Alaska · 0.66 mi away
On the Water· Rainbow Glacier Adventures

Exclusive Chilkat Photography Tour- Skagway Departure | Photography Tour in Haines, Alaska

Discover the stunning wilderness of Alaska on the Exclusive Chilkat Photography Tour, where expert guides lead you to capturing breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. Perfect for photography lovers looking for an intimate, adventure-filled experience in Haines. Keep reading to find out how to make the most of this unforgettable journey!

4–6 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.