Haines State Forest
Founded in 1982, Haines State Forest is one of two state forests in Alaska , along with Tanana Valley State Forest .
The 1157 km² forest area in the northwest of the Alaska Panhandle includes the catchment areas of the Chilkoot River and Chilkat River with its tributaries Kelsall , Klehini and Takhin River . The elevation levels in the State Forest range from coastal regions at sea level to high altitudes over 2,100 m in the Coast Mountains .
Located in a transition zone between the damp coastal climate and the dry, cold interior, the forest offers suitable conditions for a variety of plants and animals.
This mineral-rich area has been prospecting and mining since the turn of the century and continues to this day. Inland logging roads, rivers and hiking trails provide access to remote areas and ample recreational opportunities. Hunting, fishing, berry picking, camping, hiking, and skiing are popular activities. Several commercial operators offer tours in the forest all year round.
Photographers and hunters follow the wild animals of the forest such as elk , black and brown bears and mountain goats . Wolves , martens , lynxes , wolverines , tree prickers , beavers , otters and many small mammals live in the region. Trumpeter swans , geese , ducks and a variety of song birds are also featured.
The predominant tree species are sitka spruce , western balsam poplar, and willow . Around 15% of the state forest has been approved for logging.
The Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is located within the state forest.
The park borders the state border between the United States and the Canadian province of British Columbia . On the Canadian side, the Atlin Provincial Park and Recreation Area joins the border.
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Coordinates: 59 ° 13 '37.1 " N , 135 ° 7' 59.8" W.