Haines Walking Tour

This walking tour is led by a local guide, an Alaskan who lives in Haines year-round. If you really want to learn about what it's like to live in a small, Alaskan town, and if you want to learn about the history and culture, this guided walking tour is the way to the go.

Your guide gives you the complete story. You'll learn about four distinct periods of Haines history....pre-contact Tlingit culture, US Army period (1902-1947), Port Chilkoot period (1947-1970) and current events (1970-present).

The tour includes a visit to Alaska Indian Arts (AIA). The visit to AIA is significant for several reasons. First of all, the building that houses AIA is the former Army hospital. This gives you a chance to go inside one of these buildings built back in 1902. Second, the local Tlingit culture is an important component of the local history. At AIA you will be introduced to the native culture and art. Third, Alaska Indian Arts has a fascinating history. AIA has been bringing together local diverse aspects of the community with an interest in Tlingit art, particularly carving and dancing, since the 1950's. AIA continues to be involved in a diverse number of projects. For example, James Earl Jones had a totem pole carved here on commission. If you've always had a dream of having a totem pole carved for your front yard, the artists at AIA would be happy to discuss the project with you!

This tour allows you to combine some exercise for your body as well as your mind.