Mt. Riley hike from Haines: 1,500 ft summit with guide

Climb to the summit of Mt. Riley and see the Lynn Canal spread across 360 degrees

A 6-hour guided hike from Haines to the 1,760-foot summit of Mt. Riley, the highest point on the Haines Peninsula. You'll climb roughly 1,500 feet through temperate rainforest within Chilkat State Park, stop for lunch and snacks along the way, and descend back to the trailhead. A professional naturalist guide leads the route and points out local flora, fauna, geology and Gold Rush history.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hike Mt. Riley and explore Haines

• Tour historic Fort Seward
• Drive to Mt. Riley trailhead
• Enjoy views of Haines and rainforest
• Hike 5-8 miles to Mt. Riley summit
• Snack and rest on the way up
• Have picnic lunch at summit
• Descend back to trailhead

The experience

The day starts with a short tour of Fort Seward, the first Army base in Alaska, before a scenic drive takes you to the Mt. Riley trailhead. Your guide will talk about the region's natural history and point out snow-capped peaks and thick timber forests as you leave town and enter the temperate rainforest. Once on the trail, the hike begins over rolling terrain and then steepens as switchbacks carry you upward through the forest. The total distance is between 5 and 8 miles depending on the exact route you take.

Mt. Riley is a strenuous climb, and the guide will keep pace with the group while talking about the flora and fauna you pass, and watching for wildlife like humpback whales in the water below, bald eagles overhead, and other creatures. You'll reach several viewpoints on the way up, and the summit sits at 1,760 feet with a 360-degree view of the Lynn Canal. The descent follows the same trail back down to the trailhead.

Snacks and water are provided throughout the hike, and you'll stop for a picnic-style lunch before heading back. Hiking poles are included. The operator asks that you dress for all weather and bring appropriate footwear. The hike runs rain or shine. A minimum of two people per booking is required to operate, and children are welcome from age 8 onward. Vegetarian lunch options are available if you let the operator know when you book.

What’s included

• A professional naturalist guide who speaks English and leads the route.
• lunch and snacks provided on the trail.
• beverages.
• hiking poles.
• a scenic drive to and from the trailhead and a short tour of historic Fort Seward at the start of the day.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 3 May 2027

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (8 to 12 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Physically demandingNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Alaska Mountain Guides Adventures, inc. Chilkat Guides Ltd

Is this one for you?The guide leads in English and speaks throughout the hike about local history, geology and wildlife, so you'll follow comfortably if you're a strong hiker with good cardiovascular fitness. This is a full-day commitment on steep terrain, not a casual walk. It's built for people who hike regularly and want a challenging day in the rainforest with expert commentary.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

1 verified traveler review

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (8 to 12 years). Children under 8 can't be included in the booking.

How steep is the Mt. Riley trail and what kind of fitness do I need?

Mt. Riley is a strenuous hike with roughly 1,500 feet of elevation gain over 5 to 8 miles. The operator requires a high level of physical fitness. It's not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health or spinal injuries, and pregnant travelers should not attempt it. The switchbacks and rolling terrain mean you'll be climbing steadily, especially in the second half of the hike.

What will I see from the summit of Mt. Riley?

The summit offers a 360-degree view of the Lynn Canal and the surrounding landscape. On the way up and down, you may spot humpback whales breaching in the water, bald eagles flying overhead, and other wildlife. Your guide will point out snow-capped peaks, thick timber forests, and the abundant growth of the temperate rainforest.

What's included in the hike and what do I need to bring?

A professional naturalist guide, lunch, snacks, water and hiking poles are all included. You'll need to bring appropriate hiking footwear and dress for all weather: the hike operates in rain or shine. The operator recommends dressing in layers since conditions can change quickly in the rainforest.

Does the hike start in Haines and how long does it take?

Yes, the day begins in Haines with a tour of Fort Seward followed by a scenic drive to the Mt. Riley trailhead. The total time is 6 hours from start to finish, which includes the drive, the hike up and down, and time for lunch and snacks on the trail.