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
DesignationState Forest
Total Wilderness Area286,000
Elevation / TerrainDiverse 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 60 miles.

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, Alaska
⌖ 8.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lutak, Alaska

Lutak, Alaska is a remote coastal town ideal for adventurers seeking hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing amid the Chilkat Mountains and pristine waterways. It offers peaceful exploration of Alaska’s rugged nature with easy access from Haines.

June through September for hiking and paddling; December through March for winter sports
Explore Town
Gustavus, Alaska
⌖ 57.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gustavus, Alaska

Gustavus serves as a prime entry point to the natural wonders of southeastern Alaska. Kayak the spectacular Glacier Bay, marvel at marine life including humpback whales, and trek the pristine trails. With its vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, this small town is ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking an adventurous escape.

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.

Old Faithful Rad Power E-Bikes
ADVEXPEDITION
Haines, Alaska
Bike TourADV Bookable

Old Faithful Rad Power E-Bikes

Discover Haines, Alaska, from a new perspective with Cyclops Cycles’ electric bike rentals. Cover scenic roads, spot wildlife, and experience the region’s unique landscapes with ease on a Rad Power E-Bike.

Bike TourFat Tire and Step Thru Models $65 per day; Age 18+ to book (or legal guardian for youth)Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Mountain E-Bike Adventure
ADVEXPEDITION
Haines, Alaska
Bike TourADV Bookable

Mountain E-Bike Adventure

Experience the thrill of mountain biking with a turbo boost at Cyclops Cycles in the Rockies. Perfect for all skill levels, their guided e-bike tours offer scenic views and an eco-friendly adventure.

Bike TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Fat-tire Freedom: Exploring Haines on Rad Rover Plus E-Bikes
ADVEXPEDITION
Haines, Alaska
Bike TourADV Bookable

Fat-tire Freedom: Exploring Haines on Rad Rover Plus E-Bikes

Rent new Rad Rover fat-tire e-bikes with 45+ mile range to tool around town, chase wildlife, and access Chilkat State Park’s gravel roads—the practical guide for planning your ride.

Bike TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Float with Eagles: A Quiet Raft Through the Chilkat Preserve
ADVEXPEDITION
Haines, Alaska
RaftingADV Bookable

Float with Eagles: A Quiet Raft Through the Chilkat Preserve

A 6.5‑hour small‑group rafting and scenic‑drive outing that departs from Skagway and threads fjords, waterfalls and the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

RaftingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Chilkoot Lake Nature and Wildlife Viewing - Departs from Skagway
ADVEXPEDITION
Skagway, Alaska
WildlifeADV Bookable

Chilkoot Lake Nature and Wildlife Viewing - Departs from Skagway

Discover the wild side of Southeast Alaska at Chilkoot Lake. Join Rainbow Glacier Adventures for a scenic wildlife tour that offers spectacular views and unforgettable animal encounters.

WildlifeIncludes Haines-Skagway Fast FerryCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Skagway City and Mountain Summit Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Skagway, Alaska
City TourADV Bookable

Skagway City and Mountain Summit Tour

Discover the history and sweeping mountain vistas of Skagway on this engaging tour that combines local storytelling with breathtaking alpine scenery. Perfect for a quick yet rewarding Alaskan adventure.

City TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip