See Bald Eagles in Their Natural Habitat

Every year in mid-November, a unique hydrological effect takes place on the Chilkat River, where thousands of years ago receding glaciers left behind a porous gravel aquifer. The warm water from the summer slowly rises up, preventing a stretch of the river from freezing and essentially providing a buffet for the symbol of our nation.

These 48,000 acres of land are the location of a highly populated salmon run, attracting up to 3,000 bald eagles each day. The area is known as the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, which began the Alaska Bald Eagle Festival in 1994 with the Haines Chamber of Commerce, offering a variety of programs that cater to every level of birdwatcher and outdoor enthusiast.

Renewing interest in the bird has had a positive effect. Less than a year after the inaugural event, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service reclassified the species from “endangered” to “threatened” and later de-listed for the lower 48, marking a significant recovery for the population. The total population in Alaska is about 40,000–50,000, but it’s difficult to find many of them together aside from the festival.

You won’t find many of the birds themselves at the festival. Shuttles bring attendees to the preserve in small groups to ensure the safety of the animals. In the evening, food, workshops and dancing entertain guests.