Access The Summit
Access The Summit
This scenic tour travels about 100 miles along the Haines National Scenic Byway. The route was originally a trail used by Chilkat Tlingit traders, which eventually became the Dalton Trail. It was used by some prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898-1899; other mining operations kept the lower Dalton Trail active through the years following its establishment. The British Columbia provincial government converted its portion of the trail to a wagon road in 1909 when copper mining began at Copper Butte and Mt. Glave.
As you depart the dock in Haines, 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 US military bases in Alaska.
As you ride along the Haines Highway towards Canada, you'll pass through the world-famous Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, which boasts the largest gathering of bald eagles in the world. Your guide will tell stories about the fascinating local history and culture of the area. The preserve is a state park and wildlife refuge established in 1982, covering a total of 49,320 acres, and is home to the world's largest concentration of bald eagles. Approximately 200 to 400 birds live there year-round, with up to 4,000 observed during the annual Fall Congregation.
Passing through the Canadian border, you'll gain elevation and travel above tree-line while towering peaks loom above the highway. Take in fantastic views of glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and wide expanses of alpine tundra.
Along the way, stop for a delicious picnic-style lunch with a dramatic and picturesque mountain backdrop for a serene rest.
As you make your way back to Haines, stop again along the Chilkat River to look for wildlife and take photos of the breathtaking scenery. The river "flats" along the Haines Highway are the main viewing area for eagle watchers, and are considered critical habitat in the preserve.
Please Note: Passports are required for all guests on this tour.
Shore Excursions Group was created with one goal in mind: to provide exceptional travel experiences to cruise passengers in the ports they visit around the world. To accomplish this, we have compiled an exceptional array of tours delivered by local experts with decades of experience serving travelers and delivering excellent tours. Our owners and management team are comprised of seasoned travel industry executives who leverage their considerable experience to deliver memorie ...
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