One of my all-time favorite spots is the beautiful town of Haines. There’s so much to explore and discover and the setting is just amazing. Stay at the Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site Campground out of town and if you are early enough, you might even get one of those rare spots next to the lake (number 19 for example) – and on the next day – wake up with beautiful views of the lake and the Glacier.

But always be aware that you are in bear country, the river is often visited by bears in search of the next salmon meal. There’s usually a ranger around to make sure there are no incidents between bears and human. You might expect a traffic jam of a different kind – when a bear is near the road, nobody is allowed to cross that point – I once had to wait for more than an hour until I could continue my way back to the campground!

Exploring the area by foot

Looking for a hike? Haines offers various options, be it for the easy day stroll or for an ambitious mountain hike. I loved Battery Trail Hike, which offers an easy jaunt out to a pebble beach with awesome views.

And if you are more ambitious try out Mount Ripinski Trail, where you can experience the different ecosystems of a Southeast Alaskan mountain – lush forest, subalpine stunted trees, alpine meadow and rocky summit

And finally enjoy the beautiful drive on Haines Highway – wherever you are going to!