Photo: Mbochart, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
🌤 Weather at Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26–60 °F | 49–65 °F | 26–57 °F | 19–34 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Haines Airport, 15 mi away, elevation 15 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Eagle Preserve — 48,000-acre preserve protecting one of the world’s largest concentrations of bald eagles, which 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 one of the world’s largest gatherings of bald eagles. From late October, eagles converge on the “Council Grounds” along the Chilkat River to feed on a late run of chum salmon; the gathering usually peaks in November and thins by February. Water reaching the Chilkat from the Tsirku River partly underground stays relatively warm and keeps stretches of the river ice-free into winter. The Tlingit people have lived along the Chilkat River for millennia, and the name Chilkat is generally traced to a Tlingit term for salmon storehouses.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Haines, AK |
| Size | 48,000 acres! |
| Eagles | Often put at 3,000–4,000; road counts far lower |
| Peak Season | Usually November (late October to February) |
About Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve
Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve near Haines protects one of the world’s largest concentrations of bald eagles. The gathering is often put at 3,000 to 4,000 eagles, but no aerial survey has been flown in at least 20 years. Road counts from the highway are far lower: more than 1,400 in fall 2025, the highest since 2000, and under 300 in 2020. The 48,000-acre preserve covers the river bottom of the Chilkat, Klehini and Tsirku. Relatively warm subsurface water keeps portions of the river ice-free into winter.
Sources: KHNS via KTOO, December 8, 2025; Alaska State Parks.
Things to Do
Eagle watching (usually best in November), photography from pullouts along the Haines Highway, rafting the Chilkat River, hiking, salmon fishing (seasonal), and visiting the American Bald Eagle Foundation in Haines.
Insider Tips
Peak eagle viewing: The gathering usually peaks in November, and road counts have ranged from under 300 to more than 1,400 in recent years. Pro tip: The main pullouts lie between Miles 18 and 21 of the Haines Highway at the Council Grounds, with a boardwalk and platform at Mile 19. 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 wildlife that can include moose, mountain goats, swans and sometimes bears along the river. Spring: Eagles disperse to nesting territories. Year-round: Some eagles live in the valley all year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do so many eagles gather here?
Water from the Tsirku River reaches the Chilkat partly underground, stays relatively warm and keeps stretches of the river from freezing, which gives eagles access to a late chum salmon run when little other food is available. The gathering draws eagles from across Alaska, British Columbia and as far as Washington State.
How cold is it in November?
Haines Airport averages a low near 26°F and a high near 36°F in November (NOAA 1991-2020 normals), and colder spells happen. Dress in layers, bring hand warmers, and protect camera batteries from cold. The viewing areas are roadside — no hiking required.
More parks nearby: Mosquito Lake State Recreation Site and Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site are both a short drive away.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Alaska State Parks and campgrounds when leashed and accompanied by the owner; unleashed dogs are allowed in the backcountry if under voice control.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not exceeding 9 feet required in developed facilities (campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads, swim beaches, boat ramps).
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- No statewide pet ban on beaches; swim beaches count as developed facilities where the 9-foot leash rule applies.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- In the backcountry leashes are not required but pets must remain under voice control; in trapping areas (e.g. Chena River SRA) leashing is strongly advised for dog safety.
Are dogs allowed at Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve?
Pets are welcome in Alaska State Parks and campgrounds when leashed and accompanied by the owner; unleashed dogs are allowed in the backcountry if under voice control. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dnr.alaska.gov. More: Alaska state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Map
Plan your gear for Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
