Waltzing Ripinsky

Mount Ripinsky is, in my opinion, Haines' best hike. Overlooking town, the trail gains 3610 feet in elevation over 3.7 miles. Often cloaked in clouds, we took advantage of morning sun to "bag" this peak. The sun did not last, and it was gently raining on us before we reached the top. Despite, the weather, we had full view of the countryside.

Lynn Canal may be seen on the left side of these panoramas, and the Chilkat Rivers empties into the inlet on the right. Haines may be seen below, and the Chilkat Peninsula stretches beyond. Mount Riley is the tall peak beyond town.

A view of the braided Chilkat River.

In addition to splendid scenery, the alpine flora on Ripinsky is worthy of close attention.