Haines Summit by Van

This scenic van tour travels about 100 miles along the Haines National Scenic Byway which passes through the world-famous Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, and travels into northern British Columbia. As you depart the dock in Haines in the tour van, your expert cultural and naturalist guide will welcome you to the town of Haines and its fascinating geography, culture, and natural wonders. First, you will be treated to a short narrated driving tour through historic Fort Seward, one of the first U.S. military bases in Alaska. Then, as you drive up the Haines Highway towards Canada, we enter the Bald Eagle Preserve.

Drive along the National Scenic Byway through the awe-inspiring Chilkat Valley to the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve and make 1-2 stops to watch for wildlife and enjoy the incredible scenery. Your guide will tell stories about the fascinating local history and culture of the area. Passing through the Canadian border, you gain elevation and travel above tree-line while towering peaks loom above the highway. There are fantastic views of glaciated peaks and wide expanses of alpine tundra. Along the way you’ll stop for a delicious picnic-style lunch with a dramatic mountain backdrop. As you make your way back to Haines, you’ll stop again along the Chilkat River to look for wildlife and take photos of the breathtaking scenery.
• Passport required for this tour.

Overview:
• Greet guests, sign waivers, and set expectations for the upcoming tour
• Depart the dock, and drive up the Chilkat Valley, National Scenic Byway, to 31-Mile where you'll stop for a photo break
• Enjoy views and take photos at this beautifully scenic rest stop
• Depart the view point, head up the highway, pass through Canadian Customs, and drive up into the alpine tundra area of Haines Summit
• Enjoy the alpine tundra and mountain views of the Haines Summit. A picnic style lunch will likely be served here (however a more sheltered location may be chosen depending on weather)
• Depart the Haines Summit, descend back towards the Chilkat Valley, and pass through U.S. Customs. You'll make your way to 19-Mile for a great eagle viewing spot and a bathroom break
• Enjoy the views, take photos, and use the bathroom at the 19-Mile viewpoint
• Load up the bus, and head back to the dock in Haines