Rafting through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve from Haines offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness nature’s grandeur. Guided by knowledgeable experts, this 1.5-hour float trip showcases the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles alongside a variety of native wildlife, including bears, moose, and river otters. With a maximum of 14 guests per tour, the personalized attention ensures an unforgettable adventure in the stunning Alaskan wilderness. But, the real highlight of this excursion may just surprise you.
Good To Know
- A half-day rafting tour departs from Haines, offering a 1.5-hour float trip on the Chilkat River known for its high concentration of bald eagles and diverse wildlife.
- The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is home to 3,000-4,000 bald eagles during autumn salmon runs, providing opportunities to observe the national symbol of America in its natural habitat.
- While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, bear sightings are more likely during the late summer months, and moose and river otters are commonly found in the area.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible and requires moderate physical fitness, with a maximum capacity of 14 guests to ensure personalized attention.
- Special dietary accommodations are available with advance notice, enhancing the overall rafting experience at the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.
Tour Overview
The half-day rafting tour to Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve departs from Haines, offering a 1.5-hour float trip on a sturdy raft.
The preserve is known for the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles and other wildlife like moose, otters, and bears.
Recommended by 94% of travelers with a 4.5-star rating, the tour includes lunch, a knowledgeable guide, and transportation to and from the port.
With a minimum age of 7 and a maximum weight of 250 lbs, the tour requires a minimum of 2 guests and accommodates up to 14 travelers per group.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Haines.
Exploring the Preserve
Immersive wildlife encounters await visitors within the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve’s unique ecosystem. The preserve is known for its world-renowned bald eagle population, with an estimated 3,000-4,000 eagles congregating during the autumn salmon runs. Beyond the majestic birds, the preserve offers sightings of other native fauna, including brown and black bears, moose, and river otters. However, wildlife viewing is not guaranteed, with bear sightings more likely from August to September.
| Wildlife Highlights | Likelihood of Sighting |
|---|---|
| Bald Eagles | Very High |
| Brown/Black Bears | Moderate (Higher Aug-Sep) |
| Moose | Moderate |
| River Otters | Moderate |
The preserve’s drier climate provides a distinct ecosystem compared to the surrounding Haines region, allowing for a truly immersive Alaskan wilderness experience.
Bald Eagle Viewing
Bald eagles capture the imagination of visitors to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The preserve is renowned for its abundance of these majestic birds, often described as the symbol of America.
Guests on the rafting tour have the opportunity to observe bald eagles in their natural habitat, perched atop towering trees or soaring gracefully above the Chilkat River. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate, sharing insights about the eagles’ behavior and ecology.
While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the preserve is home to one of the world’s largest concentrations of bald eagles, especially from October to March when they gather to feed on the salmon runs.
Witnessing these impressive raptors in the wild is a highlight for many visitors to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.
Native Wildlife Sightings
Beyond the abundant bald eagles, the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve offers visitors the chance to spot a variety of other native wildlife.
While bear sightings are more likely from August to September during salmon runs, the preserve is home to both brown and black bears that can be spotted throughout the season.
Moose and otters are also common residents. The preserve’s drier environment provides a unique ecosystem compared to the surrounding region, making it an ideal location to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
However, wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, as they depend on various factors. The focus remains on the immersive Alaskan wilderness experience.
Meeting and Arrival
Travelers meet for the rafting tour at the Port Chilkoot Cruise Ship Dock in Haines, Alaska.
Cruise ship guests gather near the Information Booth, while hotel guests meet outside their lodgings. Regardless of arrival, confirmation is provided at booking unless the experience is within 2 days of travel.
The tour has a minimum age of 7 years and a maximum weight of 250 lbs, with a minimum of 2 guests required. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.
With a maximum of 14 guests per tour, the intimate experience allows for personalized attention from the family-operated service.
Accessibility and Logistics
The rafting tour to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests need to have moderate physical fitness.
The tours accommodate a maximum of 14 travelers at a time. Visitors can meet the tour at the Port Chilkoot Cruise Ship Dock if they’re cruise ship guests, or outside their hotel if they’re hotel guests.
Confirmation is received at booking unless within 2 days of travel. Minimum age is 7 years, and maximum weight is 250 lbs.
Special dietary accommodations are available with advance notice. Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Dietary Accommodations
What about special dietary accommodations?
No need to worry if you have any dietary restrictions. The tour operator is happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary needs with advance notice.
Simply let them know when booking your tour. They’ll ensure your included lunch aligns with your dietary preferences.
This attention to detail helps make the rafting experience comfortable and enjoyable for all participants.
Whether you require a special meal or have no dietary concerns, you can look forward to experiencing the stunning Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve to the fullest on this half-day adventure.
Guest Experiences
Positive feedback from past guests highlights the knowledgeable guides and scenic beauty of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve rafting tour.
While some travelers reported disappointment in wildlife sightings, particularly bears, the emphasis is on the immersive experience of the Alaskan wilderness rather than guaranteed encounters.
Travelers appreciated the quality of the lunch and the personal touch of the family-operated service.
Key guest experiences include:
- Stunning views of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve’s unique ecosystem.
- Insightful commentary from experienced guides about the region’s flora and fauna.
- The chance to spot a variety of native wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, and otters.
Things To Known
Are Life Jackets Provided for the Rafting Tour?
Yes, life jackets are provided for the rafting tour. The tour includes all necessary safety equipment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
Yes, you can bring your own camera equipment on the tour. However, the tour provider recommends keeping it secure and waterproof, as the raft trip may involve splashing. Enjoy capturing the scenic beauty and wildlife sightings during your adventure.
Do You Offer Any Discounts or Packages for Large Groups?
The tour company offers group discounts for parties of 8 or more, with up to 20% off the regular price. They also provide special packages for larger groups with customized options and amenities.
How Experienced Are the Rafting Guides Leading the Tours?
The rafting guides leading the tours are highly experienced professionals. They’re knowledgeable about the area and skilled in safely navigating the waterways, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Rafting Trip?
The tour overview doesn’t mention an option to extend the rafting trip duration. It’s a set 1.5-hour float trip on a sturdy raft, though travelers could inquire about longer private tours if interested in a more customized experience.
Sum Up
The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve rafting tour from Haines offers a unique opportunity to witness the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles and other native wildlife in a stunning Alaskan setting. Guided by knowledgeable experts, this personalized adventure provides an unforgettable way to experience the breathtaking beauty and ecosystem of this remarkable preserve.