Trail Overview
The best hikes near Haines, Alaska, offer a unique blend of stunning mountain vistas, pristine glaciers, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. As an expert Alaska mountain guide, I highly recommend the Mount Ripinsky Trail, a challenging yet rewarding hike that takes you through a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to alpine meadows and rugged mountain peaks. What makes this trail special is its proximity to the charming town of Haines, its well-marked and well-maintained path, and the endless opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting. Hikers love this trail for its diversity, scenic beauty, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering its steep inclines and rugged terrain.
Key highlights of the Mount Ripinsky Trail include breathtaking views of the Chilkat Mountains, the Chilkat River, and the surrounding valleys. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Coast Mountains in British Columbia, Canada. The trail also passes through several ecosystems, including old-growth forests, subalpine meadows, and rocky outcroppings, each with its unique flora and fauna. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting to explore Alaska’s great outdoors, the Mount Ripinsky Trail is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Trail Stats at a Glance
- Distance: 8 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,500 feet
- Difficulty: Hard
- Estimated Time: 6-8 hours
- Trail Type: Out-and-back
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, but dogs must be on a leash
- Kid-Friendly: No, due to steep inclines and rugged terrain
Getting There
To access the Mount Ripinsky Trail, drive to Haines, Alaska, and then head north on Haines Highway (AK-7) for approximately 4 miles. Turn left onto Young Road, and continue for 2 miles until you reach the trailhead parking lot. The GPS coordinates for the trailhead are 59.2453° N, 135.4433° W. Be sure to park your vehicle in the designated parking area, and be aware that there is a day-use fee of $5 per vehicle. The trailhead facilities include a restroom, a picnic table, and an information kiosk with trail maps and brochures.
From the nearest city, Juneau, you can take a ferry or a small plane to Haines. The ferry ride takes approximately 4.5 hours, while the flight takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Haines, you can rent a car or take a taxi to the trailhead.
Detailed Trail Description
The Mount Ripinsky Trail begins at the trailhead parking lot, where you’ll find a sign with a map and a brief description of the trail. From there, the trail heads north, entering a dense forest of spruce and hemlock trees. The first mile of the trail is relatively flat, with a few minor inclines and declines. As you walk, you’ll notice the sound of a nearby creek, which you’ll cross several times throughout the hike.
At approximately 1.5 miles, the trail begins to climb more steeply, with several switchbacks that take you up a rocky slope. The trees become smaller and more sparse, and you’ll start to see glimpses of the surrounding mountains. At 2.5 miles, you’ll reach a small meadow, where you can take a break and enjoy the views.
The next section of the trail is the most challenging, with several steep inclines and rocky outcroppings. You’ll need to use your hands in some places, and be careful not to slip on loose gravel or scree. At approximately 4 miles, you’ll reach the ridge, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Chilkat Mountains and the Chilkat River.
From the ridge, the trail continues along a narrow, rocky path, with several minor inclines and declines. You’ll pass through several small meadows, each with its unique flora and fauna. At approximately 6 miles, you’ll reach the summit, where you can take in the stunning views and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
The return hike is just as scenic, with several viewpoints and photo opportunities. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife, including bears, moose, and eagles. The trail ends back at the trailhead parking lot, where you can reflect on your amazing hike and plan your next adventure.
Best Time to Hike
The best time to hike the Mount Ripinsky Trail is from June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. June is a great time to see wildflowers, including lupines, gentians, and Indian paintbrush. July and August are the warmest months, with average highs in the mid-70s to mid-80s (°F). September is a great time to see the fall colors, with the aspen and birch trees turning golden yellow.
Winter hiking is also possible, but it requires specialized gear and expertise. The trail is not groomed, and you’ll need to be prepared for deep snow, icy surfaces, and limited visibility. If you do plan to hike in the winter, be sure to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before you go, and consider hiring a guide or joining a guided tour.
Spring hiking is not recommended, as the trail can be muddy and slippery, and the snow can be unstable. Additionally, the bears are emerging from hibernation, and the trail can be closed due to bear activity.
What to Bring
When hiking the Mount Ripinsky Trail, it’s essential to bring the right gear and supplies. Here are the Ten Essentials, adapted for Alaska:
- Navigation tools, including a map, compass, and GPS device
- Headlamp or flashlight, with extra batteries
- First aid kit, with supplies for blister care, wound cleaning, and pain relief
- Emergency shelter, including a tent, sleeping bag, and pad
- Fire starter, including matches, lighter, and kindling
- Extra food and water, including energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit
- Extra clothing, including layers, hat, and gloves
- Sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Repair kit, including duct tape, safety pins, and a multi-tool
- Bear spray, with easy access and knowledge of how to use it
Additionally, consider bringing trekking poles, a water filter or treatment, and a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite phone. It’s also a good idea to bring a small daypack with essentials, such as a first aid kit, extra food and water, and a headlamp or flashlight.
Wildlife & Safety
The Mount Ripinsky Trail is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, and eagles. Be sure to keep an eye out for these animals, and take necessary precautions to avoid encounters. Here are some safety tips:
- Make noise while hiking, including talking, singing, or wearing bear bells
- Stay in groups, and avoid hiking alone
- Keep a clean campsite, and store food and trash properly
- Be aware of your surroundings, and watch for signs of wildlife, including tracks, scat, and digging
- Know how to use bear spray, and carry it with you at all times
Additionally, be aware of weather hazards, including thunderstorms, snowstorms, and high winds. River crossing safety is also essential, as the creeks and rivers can be fast-moving and icy. If you’re planning to hike in the winter, be aware of avalanche zones, and consider hiring a guide or taking an avalanche safety course.
Photography Tips
The Mount Ripinsky Trail offers endless photography opportunities, from stunning mountain vistas to intimate wildlife portraits. Here are some tips for capturing the best shots:
- Bring a wide-angle lens, such as a 10-22mm or 14-24mm, to capture the expansive views
- Use a tripod, to stabilize your camera and avoid camera shake
- Shoot during the golden hour, when the light is soft and warm
- Look for interesting compositions, including leading lines, framing, and symmetry
- Be patient, and wait for the right moment to capture the shot
Some of the best viewpoints on the trail include the ridge, the summit, and the meadows. Be sure to take your time, and enjoy the views, as the photography opportunities are endless.
History & Background
The Mount Ripinsky Trail has a rich history, dating back to the indigenous peoples who first inhabited the area. The trail was originally used by the Tlingit and Haida tribes, who would travel to the mountains to hunt and gather. In the late 19th century, the trail was used by gold miners, who would travel to the nearby creeks and rivers to pan for gold.
The trail was officially established in the 1970s, when the U.S. Forest Service built a series of trails and cabins in the area. Today, the trail is maintained by the Forest Service, and is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The name “Ripinsky” comes from the Russian word for “mountain,” and was given to the mountain by early Russian explorers. The mountain is also known as “Deishú” by the Tlingit people, which means “high mountain” or “mountain that touches the sky.”
Nearby Trails & Campgrounds
If you’re looking for more hiking opportunities in the area, consider the following trails:
- The Mount Riley Trail, a 4-mile out-and-back hike with stunning views of the surrounding mountains
- The Seduction Point Trail, a 2-mile out-and-back hike with scenic views of the Chilkat River and the surrounding valleys
- The Battery Point Trail, a 1-mile out-and-back hike with historic significance and stunning views of the Lynn Canal
For camping opportunities, consider the following campgrounds:
- The Chilkat State Park Campground, a 35-site campground with amenities including flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station
- The Haines RV Park, a 20-site campground with amenities including full hookups, Wi-Fi, and a laundry facility
- The Young Road Campground, a primitive campground with 5 sites and basic amenities including a vault toilet and a water pump
Alternatively, consider staying in the town of Haines, which offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. From there, you can access a variety of trails and outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking.