10 Places to Visit in Sitka, Alaska

Sitka, Alaska is a charming town found on Baranof Island in Southeast Alaska. It can only be reached by boat or plane, and has a population of about 8,000 people. Living in this unique city, I have included some of my favorite places to visit. Most of the places can be reached quickly by foot from the middle of town. To save time, some places may require either a short bike or bus ride to the place and back. Remember, the main road in Sitka, Alaska is only about 14 miles so everything is relatively nearby.

1. Castle Hill: This is the historical site where Russia signed Alaska over to the United States in 1867. It offers stunning views of downtown Sitka and the surrounding coastlines. It is located downtown and can be assessed either by stairs or a path with a gradual incline.

2. Sitka National Historical Park: This park is located a short walk from downtown and offers not only a museum with a rich display of cultural and historical items of Sitka, Alaska, but also a beautiful walking trail through Totem Park. This walking trail has towering spruce trees and scenic views of the coastline. It is a great place for an outside picnic. It is also the sight of Indian River where the Russians and Tlingit fought in 1804. In late summer, tourists can watch the salmon spawning in Indian River as they make their way upstream.

3. Russian Bishop House: This historical building is actually a museum that showcases what life was like for the people in Sitka, Alaska when it was under Russian influence.

4. Whale Park: This park will require either a bus or bike ride. It is located a few miles outside of town and is a popular place for watching whales. Most of the whales can be seen in the fall months, but it is still a beautiful park with scenic views.

5. Starrigavin Recreation Area: This area is located at the end of the road near the ferry terminal. It is a quiet place that offers camping facilities, pavilions, hiking trails, and a boardwalk. There is a natural artesian well that is located in the middle of the park. Locals and tourists alike visit the well to get the cold, fresh water free of charge. This is a popular place for bird and bear watching. There are two trail heads located in the park that are easy to find.

6. Alaska Raptor Center: Offering up close encounters with eagles, owls, and hawks, this is a popular place for locals and tourists. The center offers a lot of information about raptors and has a walking trail connected to its bird viewing area.

7. Verstovia Trail: This trail can be reached by bike or bus. It is a moderately difficult hiking trail, but it is worth the views of Sitka when the top is reached. Expect at least a half day trip, watch for bears, and pack adequate snacks and water.

8. Thimbleberry Heart Lake Trail: This trail can be reached by bike or bus also. It is an easy trail that begins with crossing a wooden bridge over a beautiful waterfall. The trail meanders through the forest and by two lakes. Eventually, it ends near another waterfall.

9. Sheldon Jackson Museum: This museum is located near downtown. It is small but it showcases art and cultural facts representing many of the First Nations people of Alaska.

10. St Michaels Cathedral: This Russian Orthodox church is located in the middle of downtown Sitka, Alaska. It is a popular photo shoot for many visitors. It is open for visitors to visit daily and contains a variety of religious icons and artwork.

There are many more places to visit in Sitka, Alaska so be sure to stop by the Sitka Convention and Visitor's Bureau (website included below) when you arrive. There you can pick up a free map highlighting all of the places available to visit. Sitka is a place filled with history, culture, and adventure. No matter when you visit, you are sure to find a place or event that you will always remember.

Sources:

Sitka Convention and Visitor's Bureau www.sitka.com

www.sitka.org