Haines Junction travel Guide

Haines Junction travel guide

National Airports

Haines Junction does not have its own airport. The closest airport to Haines Junction is the Whitehorse International Airport, located approximately 154 km (96 miles) to the east. The Whitehorse International Airport is the main airport in Yukon and is served by several major airlines, including Air Canada, WestJet, and Air North. From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle or taxi to Haines Junction. Another option is to take a smaller plane or helicopter from Whitehorse to Haines Junction, which can be arranged through various tour companies in the area.

Trains in Haines Junction

There are no trains that serve Haines Junction. The nearest railway station is in Whitehorse, approximately 154 km (96 miles) to the east. However, there is a scenic railway called the White Pass and Yukon Route that operates between Skagway, Alaska, and Carcross, Yukon, which is about 145 km (90 miles) southeast of Haines Junction. The train ride offers stunning views of the wilderness and is a popular tourist attraction in the region. Visitors can take a shuttle or drive from Haines Junction to Carcross to catch the train.

Buses in Haines Junction

There are a few bus services that connect Haines Junction to other cities in Yukon and beyond. One option is the Yukon Transit System, which offers daily bus service between Whitehorse and Haines Junction, as well as other communities in the region. Another option is the Husky Bus, which operates between Dawson City and Whitehorse, with a stop in Haines Junction. Additionally, there are private tour companies that offer guided bus tours of the area, including tours of Kluane National Park and Reserve.

How to get to Haines Junction

Haines Junction is located in southwest Yukon, Canada, and is accessible by road. Here are some ways to get to Haines Junction:

By Car: The most common way to get to Haines Junction is by car. The town is located on the Alaska Highway (Highway 1), which is the main highway that runs through Yukon. From Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon, it takes approximately two and a half hours to drive to Haines Junction.

By Bus: The Yukon Transit System operates daily bus service between Whitehorse and Haines Junction, as well as other communities in the region. The Husky Bus also offers bus service between Dawson City and Whitehorse, with a stop in Haines Junction.

By Plane: The closest airport to Haines Junction is the Whitehorse International Airport, located approximately 154 km (96 miles) to the east. Visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle or taxi from the airport to Haines Junction.

By Tour: There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of the Haines Junction area, including tours of Kluane National Park and Reserve. These tours often include transportation to and from Haines Junction.

What is the best time to travel to Haines Junction

The best time to visit Haines Junction depends on the type of activities you are interested in. Here’s an overview of what to expect during different seasons:

Summer (June – August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Haines Junction, with long days and mild temperatures. This is the best time to explore the hiking trails in Kluane National Park and Reserve, go fishing, take a scenic flightseeing tour, or attend the Discovery Days Festival in August.

Fall (September – November): Fall in Haines Junction brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. This is a great time for wildlife viewing, as grizzly bears and other animals come down from the mountains to feed on berries.

Winter (December – February): Winter in Haines Junction is cold and snowy, with short days and long nights. This is the best time to go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or dog sledding, and to see the Northern Lights.

Spring (March – May): Spring in Haines Junction is characterized by snowmelt and longer days. This is a good time for wildlife viewing and birdwatching, as migratory birds return to the area. However, some activities may be limited due to remaining snow and mud on trails.

How to get around Haines Junction

Haines Junction is a small town and can easily be explored on foot or by bike. However, if you want to travel further afield or if you have mobility issues, you may want to consider the following transportation options:

Car rental: There are several car rental companies in Whitehorse, and visitors can rent a car and drive to Haines Junction. This is a good option if you want to explore Kluane National Park and Reserve or other areas outside of town.

Taxi: There is a local taxi service in Haines Junction that can take visitors around town or to nearby attractions.

Guided tours: There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of the Haines Junction area, including tours of Kluane National Park and Reserve. These tours often include transportation to and from Haines Junction.

Bus: The Yukon Transit System operates daily bus service between Haines Junction and Whitehorse, as well as other communities in the region.

Hitchhiking: Hitchhiking is a common and accepted practice in Yukon, and many locals and visitors use it as a means of transportation. However, it’s important to use caution and follow safety guidelines when hitchhiking.

Accommodations in Haines Junction

Haines Junction has several accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the options available:

Hotels and Motels: There are a few hotels and motels in Haines Junction, offering comfortable rooms and basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi, parking, and on-site restaurants. Some popular options include the Raven Hotel, The Village Bakery and Guest Rooms, and the Parkside Inn.

Cabins and Cottages: For a more rustic experience, visitors can rent cabins or cottages in the Haines Junction area. These often come with full kitchens and private bathrooms and are a good option for families or groups. Some popular options include Kluane Green Sprout Vacation Home, Pine Lake Yukon Cabin, and Discovery Yukon Lodgings.

Campgrounds: There are several campgrounds in the Haines Junction area, offering a range of camping options from tent sites to RV sites. Many of these campgrounds are located in or near Kluane National Park and Reserve and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Some popular options include Kathleen Lake Campground, Cottonwood RV Park, and the Million Dollar Falls Campground.

Bed and Breakfasts: Visitors can also choose to stay in one of the many bed and breakfasts in Haines Junction. These offer a more personal experience and often come with home-cooked breakfasts and the chance to meet local hosts. Some popular options include The Raven’s Rest Inn, The Pine Tree Bed and Breakfast, and The Wildflower Bed and Breakfast.