Klukwan is a Tlingit Native Village located 22 miles outside of Haines in the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The Village is located on the banks of the Chilkat River near the confluence of two other salmon spawning rivers and boasts a backdrop of two mountain ranges that immediately rise up from the valley floor. Wildlife sightings are a common occurrence at the Culture Center. The Tlingit Natives are world renowned for their art and craftsmanship. Museums all over the world showcase the workmanship of the people of Klukwan Village.
Begin your adventure when you step onboard the Chilkat Express at Skagway’s small boat harbor. Owned and operated by the Klukwan Natives you will immediately feel welcomed by the captain and crew. Your 30-minute voyage on Lynn Fjord to the private docking facility in Haines is a scenic landscape of sheer rock cliffs, abundant waterfalls, glaciers, inlets, terminal moraines, snow capped mountain ranges that rise straight up out of the depths of the Fjord. Wildlife sightings often include: Whales, Fur Seals, Eagles, rafts of Surf Scoters, mountain goats and bear. Arriving in Haines you are face to face with the charming unspoiled small community of Haines and the magnificent Chilkat Mountain Range, which forms the northern escarpment of Glacier Bay National Park. You are further engulfed in the beauty of this special place in the world as your bus transfers you on the Haines Scenic By-way along the Chilkat River to your Klukwan Cultural Experience. Moose, bear and other wildlife are often spotted en route.
Upon your arrival to Klukwan, you are heartily welcomed by your hosts, the Tlingit Natives of Klukwan, eager to share their heritage and culture with you; “Telling Their Story Their way”. During your time at the Jilkaat Kwan Cultural Center you are treated to carving demonstrations, fish preparation demonstrations, and Native Dance in full regalia in the Long-House. Your visit culminates at the Hospitality House with a salmon bake and weaving demonstration, featuring the famed Chilkat Blanket of Klukwan.
After your visit, you will drive back to the ferry for your return to Skagway.
Shore Excursion Leaves From
Dress in layers appropriate for changing weather conditions and temperatures. The outside layer should be waterproof.
Guests must be able to walk over packed dirt, gravel and some uneven pavement. There are steps and some inclines included.
