59.20 | -135.44
Haines is a spot at the head of Lynn Canal, the longest and deepest fjord in North America, in Southeast Alaska. This spot is known for its extreme wind conditions — "Taku" katabatic winds can reach speeds over 100 knots when cold Arctic air descends from the interior glaciers and icefields. Conditions are EXCLUSIVELY reserved for expert riders. The setting is absolutely spectacular: a deep fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountains rising over 2,000 m, glaciers, and temperate rainforest. Haines is also famous for its bald eagle gatherings.
Open all year round
Expert
GLACIAL water year-round (3-10°C/37-50°F in summer, near freezing in winter) — dry suit ABSOLUTELY MANDATORY. The bottom is a mix of sand, mud, and rocks. Large tidal range (up to 5 meters/16 feet). Extremely strong tidal currents in the fjord. Water is glacial, turbid, and sediment-laden. Taku winds can create devastating chop in minutes. Conditions can go from flat calm to 60+ knot gusts without warning.
EXTREME TAKU WINDS — gusts exceeding 100 knots (185 km/h), potentially fatal. Katabatic winds arrive without warning and can go from 0 to 60+ knots in minutes. Glacial water — fatal hypothermia in minutes without protection. Devastating tidal currents in Lynn Canal. Brown bears and grizzlies VERY frequent — be on constant alert on the beach. Bald eagles in large numbers — protected species. Orcas and humpback whales in the fjord. Arctic weather conditions changing instantly. Extreme remoteness — very limited rescue services.
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