Wrangell to Haines: Alaska's Marine Highway & Road Guide

Wrangell, located on the northern tip of Wrangell Island, is accessible only by air or sea. To drive to Haines, you must first ride the Alaska Marine Highway ferry to the mainland, then continue on the road network. The stunning passage through the Inside Passage offers humpback whale sightings (best in August) and views of the Stikine River delta, one of North America's largest protected wetlands.

Route Overview

The journey combines a 5-hour ferry from Wrangell to Petersburg, then a 4-hour drive to Haines via the Alaska Highway. Total time with waiting: 10-12 hours. Use the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities tips for planning.

Lush Landscapes and Glacial Views

The route skirts the Tongass National Forest, the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world, with spruce and hemlock canopies. Near Haines, the Chilkat River hosts the largest concentration of bald eagles in the world (3,000-4,000 in November). The Chilkat Pass offers surreal vistas of the St. Elias Mountains.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

While en route, wonder at the fact that the entire area is part of the Kluane/Wrangell-St. Elias/Glacier Bay/Tatshenshini-Alsek UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its large glaciers and diverse wildlife, including grizzlies and Dall sheep.

Local Commerce and Culinary Stops

Petersburg is a fishing village; try local Norwegian pastries at the Scandia House (a landmark since 1960). In Haines, the Chilkat Valley has a vibrant craft brewery, the Haines Brewing Company, open since 2007. For a quick bite on the road, the Fast Eddy's in Tok is an institution, known for its halibut burger.

Safety and Road Quality

Watch for wildlife, especially moose at dawn and dusk, and reduce speed between mileposts 30 and 50 where fences are absent. Carry tire chains in winter; cell service is sporadic except near Haines.

Family and Pet-Friendly Stops

Take advantage of the ferry's onboard playroom for kids; pets ride in designated kennels. On land, the Haines Fairgrounds and Parade Grounds offer open space for dogs. Many lodges are pet-friendly, but confirm when booking.

Hidden Off-Route Spots and Rest Zones

Near milepost 1397 (Alaska Highway), pull off to see the historical wooden bridge of the old Telegraph Trail. The Tok River State Recreation Site (milepost 1386) provides restrooms and picnic tables, ideal for a picnic. To manage fatigue, plan stops every 2 hours; the Haines Visitor Center offers a comfortable rest area with maps.

Marine Ferry Essentials

The Alaska Marine Highway System operates daily sailings; vehicle reservations are essential in summer. Ferry fares average $350 for a standard vehicle plus passengers (estimates vary). Check the schedule early; cancellations occur due to weather.

Fuel and Route Economics

Fuel prices in Petersburg are typically 10-20% higher than the Lower 48; fill up in Haines where prices are lower. The road segment on the Alaska Highway (Route 1) has services only in Tok and Haines, about 200 miles apart. Combine fuel stops with meal breaks to save time.

Road Conditions

Petersburg to Haines is paved two-lane highway with winter ice patches (Oct-Apr). Summer construction delays are common; check 511.alaska.gov for updates. The Klondike Highway (Route 2) from Haines to the Alaska border is well-maintained but steep: grades up to 7%.