Haines weather by month

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Are you planning a trip to Haines, Alaska, or simply curious about the local climate? This guide breaks down the weather in Haines for every month of the year, highlights the best times to visit, and answers the most frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a hiker, a photographer, or a holidaymaker, understanding Haines’ climate will help you pack smarter and plan better.

An Overview of Haines Weather

Haines sits on Alaska’s coastal panhandle, where the ocean meets the Brooks Range. The maritime influence keeps temperatures moderate, but the area still experiences significant precipitation and wind year-round. The city’s climate can be summarized as a subarctic oceanic climate (Köppen Dfc), characterized by:

  • Mild summers (average highs 60–65 °F / 15–18 °C)

  • Cool, snowy winters (average lows 15–20 °F / ‑9 °C)

  • High humidity and heavy rainfall/ snowfall throughout the year

  • Strong, gusty winds that are common, especially during storm fronts

Understanding the monthly patterns will help you decide the best time to explore the Inside Passage, visit the historic Haines Museum, or tackle the famous Haines Hot Springs.

Haines Weather by Month

Below is a concise table summarizing the average temperatures, precipitation, and weather notes for each month in Haines.

Month Avg. High (°F) Avg. Low (°F) Avg. Precipitation (in) Wind (mph) Highlights
January 20 8 6.9 12 Cold & snowy; rare sunshine
February 22 9 6.5 11 Start of spring wind shifts
March 27 13 5.9 10 Sleet to rain transition
April 34 18 5.2 9 Green shoots, early floods
May 44 26 4.8 8 Warm, less rain, hiking season
June 54 34 4.3 8 Sunny, long days
July 57 38 3.9 8 Peak of summer, best weather
August 55 36 4.4 9 Mild, occasional storms
September 48 28 5.0 10 Autumn colors, windier
October 36 18 5.6 11 Cool, increased precipitation
November 26 11 6.0 12 Shortening days, early snow
December 21 7 6.4 12 Dark, cold, stormy

Data are averages based on the last 30 years and are rounded to the nearest integer.

Why the Numbers Matter

  • Highs and Lows: Knowing typical temperature ranges helps you pack appropriate clothing layers.

  • Precipitation: Haines is one of the wettest places in the US, so bring waterproof gear even in summer.

  • Wind: Affects how the temperature feels; wind-swept mornings can feel significantly colder.

Best Seasons to Visit Haines

Season Pros Cons
Summer (June–August) Warm days, long daylight, lush landscapes, fewer clouds Occasional fog, still some rainfall
Fall (September–November) Stunning foliage, quieter crowds, lower rates Cool mornings, higher wind speeds
Spring (April–May) Blossom, minimal crowds, mild temperatures Heavy rain, some trail closures
Winter (December–March) Snowy landscapes, potential for aurora viewing Cold, limited daylight, possible road closures

Recommendation:

  • Mid-July to early August offers the best blend of warmth, extended daylight, and accessibility to both interior and coastal attractions.

  • Early September is ideal for those who love autumn scenery and wish to avoid peak tourist season.

Seasonal Packing Tips

Season Key Items Weather‑Specific Notes
Summer Lightweight layers, waterproof jacket, hat, sunglasses Bring a small rain poncho; humidity is high
Fall Warm layers, waterproof hiking boots, windbreaker Cooler evenings; add a fleece
Spring Sturdy rain gear, quick‑dry shirts, jacket Rain can be frequent; mud on trails
Winter Insulated parka, wind‑proof pants, thermal base layers, gloves Expect wind chills; snow boots with traction

FAQ – Haines Weather

  1. Q: Is it hot enough in summer to leave the jacket off?

    A: Summer highs average around 55–57 °F (13–14 °C). It’s comfortable during midday but cooler in the mornings and evenings, so layering is advised.

  2. Q: Does Haines get a lot of rain all year?

    A: Yes. The city averages 4–7 inches of precipitation per month throughout the year, most of it falling as rain or light snow.

  3. Q: When is the best time for wildlife viewing?

    A: Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) provide stable conditions and thriving ecosystems for salmon, moose, and bears.

  4. Q: Do I need a snow shovel if I’m traveling in December?

    A: Not usually. Roads are cleared regularly, but having a basic snow brush or shovel can be handy for unexpected accumulation.

  5. Q: Are there microclimates in Haines I should be aware of?

    A: Yes. The coastal area can be milder and foggier compared to the inland portions, which experience sharper temperature swings and more snowfall.

Resources

Final Thoughts

Haines’ weather is a defining character of the city, shaping everything from wildlife behavior to visitor activity. By familiarizing yourself with the monthly averages, wind patterns, and precipitation habits, you can confidently plan your trip and make the most of what this Alaskan gem offers. Whether you’re chasing the midnight sun, hiking through cedar groves, or just enjoying a bowl of local salmon, knowing the weather will help you stay comfortable and safe in Haines’ beautiful, ever‑changing climate.

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