The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve near Haines hosts the largest gathering of bald eagles on Earth, when thousands descend on a late run of salmon in the ice-free river flats. Trees along the Haines Highway fill with eagles, easily watched from roadside pullouts or on a guided float trip. The congregation peaks in November, when a late-autumn salmon run and open water pull the birds together in extraordinary numbers.
The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve near Haines hosts the largest gathering of bald eagles on Earth, when thousands descend on a late run of salmon in the ice-free river flats. Trees along the Haines Highway fill with eagles, easily watched from roadside pullouts or on a guided float trip. The congregation peaks in November, when a late-autumn salmon run and open water pull the birds together in extraordinary numbers.
Up to 90% sighting chance in Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, Alaska. Best months: November, December, October.
The congregation peaks in November, when a late salmon run and open water draw thousands of bald eagles to the river flats.
From pullouts along the Haines Highway, where eagles line the trees, or on a guided raft float down the Chilkat River.
Haines is reached by ferry or small plane from Juneau, or by a long drive through Canada; there is no direct road from the rest of Alaska.
Yes, roadside viewing in the preserve is free (2026 prices); guided float trips run roughly 100 to 160 USD per person.
Bald eagles live in the area year-round, but the huge concentration is a brief autumn event, thinning out by January.
