Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 Eagle Capital — 48,000-acre preserve hosting the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles — up to 4,000 eagles gather here each fall for the late salmon run!

Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve protects 48,000 acres along the Chilkat, Klehini, and Tsirku Rivers near Haines — home to the world’s largest gathering of bald eagles. Each October through February, up to 4,000 bald eagles converge on the “Council Grounds” along the Chilkat River to feed on a late run of chum salmon. An underground reservoir of warm water keeps a 5-mile stretch of river ice-free even when temperatures plunge to -20°F — creating the last open feeding opportunity for eagles before winter. The Tlingit people have lived along the Chilkat River for millennia — “Chilkat” means “storage container for salmon” in Tlingit.

Visitor Information

About Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve near Haines protects the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles — up to 3,500 eagles gather here each fall and winter along the Chilkat River to feed on late-running chum salmon. The 48,000-acre preserve encompasses river floodplain, lakes, and forest. A unique underground geological feature keeps portions of the river ice-free through winter, sustaining the salmon and attracting this extraordinary eagle congregation.

Things to Do

Eagle watching (peak: October-February with thousands visible), photography from pullouts along the Haines Highway, rafting the Chilkat River, hiking, salmon fishing (seasonal), and visiting the American Bald Eagle Foundation in Haines. One of Earth’s greatest wildlife spectacles.

Insider Tips

Peak eagle viewing: Mid-November has the highest eagle concentration — 3,500+ eagles gather along the Chilkat River to feed on late-run chum salmon. Pro tip: The viewing pullouts along the Haines Highway (Mile 18-22) offer the closest views without disturbing the eagles. Photography: Overcast days produce better photos — no harsh shadows on white heads. Bring a 400mm+ lens.

Best Time to Visit

October-February: The Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Festival (November) coincides with peak gathering. Summer: Fewer eagles but excellent hiking, rafting, and bear viewing along the river. Spring: Eagles disperse to nesting territories. Year-round: Some eagles are always present — the preserve supports 200-400 resident eagles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do so many eagles gather here?

An underground thermal spring keeps the Chilkat River from freezing, sustaining a late chum salmon run when other rivers are frozen. This reliable food source draws eagles from across Alaska and British Columbia — the largest congregation anywhere on Earth.

How cold is it in November?

Temperatures range from 10-30°F (-12 to -1°C). Dress in layers, bring hand warmers, and protect camera batteries from cold. The viewing areas are roadside — no hiking required.