Hike Mt. Ripinski, Haines

What: Mt. Ripinski is one of the most stunning hikes in all of southeast alaska offering uninterrupted views of Haines and the glacier carved valleys around. At 3000+ ft of elevation gain and 10 miles of hiking, the trail is rated as Hard.

When to go: Ideally accessed in the peak summer months between June and September. The total hike should take between 4 and 6 hours.

How to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/wrr386KEvCvfx4rB9
Alltrails link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/alaska/mount-ripinsky-and-7-mile-saddle-trail

Tips:

• There are a few variations of doing this hike, but the best most efficient option is to do it as an out and back to the top of Mt Ripinski. Relative to other Alaskan hikes, you have to hike quite a bit to clear the tree line. However, the views after clearing the tree line are second to none and offer some insane 360 views. Given the value of these views, it’s worth picking a relatively clear day to do the hike.
• If you have more time, you can keep hiking as far back as you’d like beyond Mt Ripinski. Some people keep hiking and do an overnight backpacking trip to end up the road off the Chilkat valley road.
• The trail has significant elevation gain, but is largely spread out across the hike. There are a few short steep sections primarily near the top of the peak. It can get quite windy at the top, so come prepared accordingly.