You can view traditional dances which are performed by all generations of Tlingit families with both informative and funny speeches. It was fascinating to see these giant animals breach in the distance and then swim within 30ft of the boat. Sleeps 10 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms. Hike up to the top for views of the water and soak in some history. This is agreat, easy walk that can be linked to the Forest and Muskeg Trail and Mosquito Cove Trail. Or see marine creatures up close at the Sitka Sound Science Center and majestic birds at the Alaska Raptor Center. During this time here, he collected more than 5,000 items and many of these can be seen in the museum today. Explore Town Not only does a visit give you plenty of interesting things to see, but it gives you an insight into the towns Russian past. Let us simplify it for you, How much does an Alaska summer vacation cost? Get aclose-up look at owls, hawks, falcons, and other birds of prey at the Alaska Raptor Centernear. Southeast Conference. Sitka, AK 2023: Best Places to Visit - Tripadvisor . Several local museums and galleries also present the rich history of the town through collections of artwork, carvings, and jewelry. This wont affect the price you pay and helps us offer the best product recommendations. #visitsitka #tongassnationalforest #sitka #sitkaalaska #beaverlake #hike #tongasstreks, Breath deeply with the forest, it will heal you. Many visitors are surprised at how much of an influence the Russian past has had on Sitka and Alaska today. What makes Sitka special? Several locally owned hotels and inns can be found in and close to the downtown area. Learn More >, With a mild maritime climate and abundant "liquid sunshine," this coastal region's many fjords, glaciers, and charming ports of call draw a million summertime cruise passengers. Read Top 7 Things to Do in Sitka. PO Box 3086 We are a community that welcomes all who celebrate Sitka. The Cross trail intersects Gavan Hill Trail at mile 1then leads throough thick trees. #sitka #kayaking #visitsitka #alaska, Behold the majestic Famous for its sport fishing, Sitka's two harbors are dotted with brightly colored boats that look out over the spruce-covered islands of the Tongass National Forest. Visiting Fortress of The Bear was one of my absolute highlights while in Sitka. All visitors stepping foot in Sitka will want to browse the shops on Lincoln Street. Come join us for a beautiful Spring trek in the Tongass National Forest! The Reverend Dr. Sheldon Jackson recognized the importance of saving cultural objects for the benefit of future generations, from Alaska Native watercraft to tools, equipment, clothing, and ceremonial objects such as masks. Brandon especially loved his James Bond moment as seen above. Focus on Denali & Kenai Fjords. RELATED: All The Best Kept Local Food And Drink Secrets In Anchorage, Alaska. Choose a round-trip Inside passage or one-way Gulf of Alaska Cruise. Unobstructed views met us at the top and as we circumnavigated the rim of Mt. The bears have their own trailon St. Michael's Cathedral in Downtown Sitka. Home Travel Guides United States Alaska (AK) 15 Best Things to Do in Sitka (Alaska). Winners will receive up to $500 in cash prizes as well as publishing opportunities. Spanning across 500 miles of Alaska'sInside Passageand, Epic history, majestic landscapes, and pristine beaches await visitors to the state parks in this quaint coastal town. It informs our culture and inspires our art. I would use two words to describe the hike up to the picnic rock overlook at Mt Verstovia - steep and STUNNING. The blend of Russian and Tlingit past gives the city a unique feel, steeped in history it is also the place where the transfer ceremony took place after the US purchased Alaska from the Russians. Russian influences are still found in the region today at places like the Russian Blockhouse, Building 29, the Russian Bishop's House, and St. Michael's Cathedral. Verstovia! View. Thats steepsteep enough to make for achallenging race, the Alpine Adventure Run, which coincides with an annual meeting of specialists in the sports medicine field. Kids: $5 7 and under: Free RELATED: A Destination Guide To Sitka, The Lesser-Known Gem Of Alaska 2 Witness Remnants Of Russian America Photo by Simon Hurry on Unsplash Sitka, Alaska For 68 years, from 1799 to 1867 Sitka, Alaska, as we know it today was actually a fishing port town under Russian rule. : @derekmazur_ The Sitka, Alaska Travel Guide - Everything You Need To Know Engulfed by morning fog, we eerily approached our destination, unseen before us. This beautiful trail is part of an extensive local system of trails and boardwalks. Body of Sitka fishing captain recovered 11 days after charter boat sinking Many people choose to rent an apartment or camp while staying in Sitka, however, there are several options for hotel accommodation as well. Walking to the top is also an excellent way to get panoramic views across the Sitka, a great place for photographs. Im an Alaska local and have visited Sitka several times. Lace up your hiking boots and go exploring! The lighthouse books up far in advance so make sure to plan your trip early if you want to stay in this incredible spot. Whether youre planning your next big adventure, thinking about a move, or just curious about our island home, we want to help you become a Sitka insider. Temperatures are usually in the 50's-70's, days are long (at the summer solstice peak, sunrise is at 4:00am and sunset not until 10:00pm), and you have the best chances of clear and sunny weather. Youll get aclose-up look at asnowy owl, American kestrel, peregrine falcon, great-horned owl, red-tailed hawk, and even the tiny northern saw-whet owl. My arms hurt! Begin in downtown Sitka, where youll take amotorized, rigid-hull inflatable on a15- to 20-minute ride across beautiful Sitka Sound, with the massive volcano Mt. Visit Sitka | Travel Alaska Look for marine wildlife on your way to aunique float house in asmall, protected bay where youll kayak across shimmeringwater. If youre looking for anice day along the waterfront with the family, this is the spot. This is abig climb: youll gain 2,550feet en route to the summit. The center tries to keep the setting as natural as possible, so opening times vary depending on the season and there are no set feeding times to prevent the bears sticking to a routine. Sitka is accessible by boat and plane. Find how many days you need based on what you want to see and do in Alaska. The Aspen Suites Hotel is Sitka's newest hotel which opened in 2017 located in the heart of downtown. But theres plenty of notable places to visit to. Kimora Jeffers reaches for a toy in a classroom for children age 6 weeks to 12 months at the Sitka Child Development Center . Boutique, small ship adventure cruises in Alaska's Inside Passage, Cruises depart from Whittier, a 1 hr drive from Anchorage. award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert But its abeautiful hike anytime, because the views from up topfacing Mount Edgecumbe and overlooking Sitka Soundare awesome. I had always pictured Alaska as an arctic tundra of endless snow, dogsled races and igloos, but was blown away by beautiful and lush Sitka is in the summer time (we visited in late August) and how much there is to do here! The second floor gives you a chance to see what the original house might have looked like. Watch my Instagram Story highlights here for a real time look at an adventurous long weekend in Sitka, Alaska. There is SO MUCH to do and experience in Sitka - I couldn't list them all out here so don't miss my entire blog post on 15 Fun Things to Do in Sitka here. $, 321 Lincoln - This simple apartment rental is where we stayed and had everything we needed for our trip here! See the totems up close, standing right next to them to admire the intricate artwork. Sleeps 10 5 bedrooms 3 bathrooms. Sitka may be a more populous town than many others in Alaska, however, for those who plan to travel in the wilderness without a tour, be sure to review ways to stay safe in Alaska's wilderness. "We are excited to be rolling out this fully re-envisioned guide," said Rachel Roy, Executive Director at Visit Sitka. This is abeautiful hike in June and July, when the alpine wildflowers are at their peak. And you can continue along an alpine ridge to the next summit (about one hour), Arrowhead, which sits at 3,300feet! Arrange awater taxi ride to this man made archipelago extending into Sitka Sound, arelic of decaying fortifications built to defend Alaska from foreign invasion during World War II. Ludvig's Bistro is located at 256 Katlian St, Sitka, AK 99835. Address:118 Lincoln Street, Sitka, AK 99835. Delicious seafood and Mediterranean courses will warm diners after a long day exploring town. Plan your journey with this gorgeous printed map. Where I grew up (in WA state) they are long gone, but they seem to be making a come back around here--i see them a lot. Enjoy browsing the many handmade treasures including Native art, and jewelry from the Iupiat culture. The three-quarter acre habitat next to Tongass National Forest, gives visitors the chance to observe the bears living here from only 25 feet away. Which one is right for you? Be careful: the road is in decent shape, but its narrow. Found in the Sage Memorial Building on Lincoln street, the center has an aquarium, hatchery and library for visitors to explore. Our picks for the best tours and experiences during your Alaska Cruise. Dive deeper into Sitka's Russian history at the Russian Bishop's House. Campgrounds, RV Parks & Public Use Cabins. On the ground floor youll find exhibits dating from Russian America which include sea otter pelts, teapots, and a replica of a Russian possession plaque which was found in Old Sitka. If you are a keen wildlife photographer, you will be very happy with the sights you get to see here. Alaska has a diverse natural environment and one that is ever changing. . Globetrotting since 1995, Maria is a daughter, girl-mom and wife to a Spaniard. Choose one of Every spring, pacific herring move inshore in the billions to spawn in Sitka Sound. Vibrant green foliage and red rock sharply contrasted each other as we climbed higher, and in the distance, mountains towered above a still clouded Sitka. In Sitka, we are deeply connected to the natural world around us. Site of Russian significance in Alaska, Castle Hill is also a National Historic Landmark and State Historic Site. Sitka is also a year-round port of call for the state ferry on the Alaska Marine Highway System. A zoom camera lens - You'll need it for the wildlife! Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, The 9 Best Northern Lights Viewing Spots Near Anchorage, How to Travel to Alaska in January and February, The Best Large Family & Group Vacations in Alaska, How to Get from Anchorage to Your Cruise Port in Whittier or Seward (or the reverse! The list of boating options in Sitka is seemingly endless from cruises to spot wildlife, fishing charters, photography excursions, sailing, and so much more. Paddle out to see it all on a sea kayaking tour you wont soon forget. This tour is not suitable for children under the age of 10. Experience one of the worlds most incredible assemblies of marine wildlife: humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters and busy seabird rookeries. Many visitors like to combine their boat tour with visits to the centers as mentioned above to make a whole day excursion. It is located at 4513 Halibut Point Road, Sitka, AK. These are displayed within the church and are of great importance from a heritage point of view. Whale Park provides an opportunity to view marine wildlife from land, including humpback whales. The stories offer an alternative history from the point of view of the Native Alaskans who lived in this land prior to the Europeans, Russians and Americans staking claim. You can have a packed adventurous weekend in 3 days, or stay a little longer for a more relaxed, luxurious time. Located within the Sitka National Historical Park, the house is open to visitors and guided tours are recommended. The Museum Shop also offers authentic Alaska Native handcrafted artwork along with publications related to the Museums collections. View past newsletters here. Dancers perform when the cruise ships are in town, between May and September. The classic Alaska Cruise, offered by such companies as Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean. Explore Alaskas hot springs and glaciers aboard aunique ship that puts you behind the helm and lets you man the sails. Alaska Airlines provides flights from Anchorage and Juneau, and air taxis connect to the many surrounding southeast communities. Then at the visitor center you will learn about the meanings behind the totems and the history surrounding them. Are you outdoorsy or a museum fan? This seven-day itinerary sends you on many of Southeast Alaskas best guided adventures, including bear, Sample almost every major community up and down the Inside Passage in this comprehensive but unhurried seven-day itinerary of cant-miss attractions like glaciers, wildlife, Alaska Native culture,, Explore the artistic traditions of the Inside Passage in this five-day itinerary. Owner/operators Cameo and Brooks invite you and 5 friends to join With short travel times from Anchorage and Seattle, Sitka is closer than you think while still feeling like a true getaway. Use our calculator to find out, Stay casual, dress in layers, and get proper footwear, View All Southcentral & Interior Towns on a Map, Cruises depart Juneau or Sitka. There are 22 buildings in Sitka on the National Register of Historic Places including the Russian Blockhouse, Russian Bishop's House, Princess Maksoutoffs Grave, and Baranof Castle State Historic Site to name a few, so theres plenty of history to explore on a walk through town. I have enough fish to supply a whole restaurant! #alaska #tongassnationalforest #sitka #visitsitka #summer #naturephotography #canonphotography #southeastalaska #forest #mountains #ocean, Docks at Blue Hour, taken last evening This is definitely a great place to visit if you want to safely observe bears in a learning environment. Well cruise alongside humpback Equinox offers custom multiday adventure cruises based out of historic Sitka, Alaska. Go Whale Watching. You know these cuties wrap themselves up in kelp to sleep at night, and eat about a quarter of their bodyweight in shellfish everyday? Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. The handlers will introduce you to different birds such as owls, raven, eagles and the protected bald eagles. Farther afield you'll find whale watching, fishing charters, and guided kayak trips. 3900 Arctic Blvd, Ste 304 Visit September to April to see the Northern Lights. The trail is about 10miles west of Sitka and is only accessible by boat, so youll have to charter aboat and be comfortable with wilderness hiking. Set sail on a private yacht under the supervision of an experienced licensed captain. Summer is the best time for whale watching but the mammals can be seen any time of year. The town is very easy to drive in and very easy to park, and having a car means you can get everywhere you want to very quickly. Sign-up for any of the following email series to help plan your Alaska trip. From gunboat to barge to wreck: The story of the Politkofsky in early As you embark on a thrilling maritime adventure, the pristine waters become a stage for awe-inspiring encounters with majestic giants. A perfect day in Sitka largely depends on travelers' preferred methods of travel. Watch whales, hike, fish, visit local communities, and moreall at your ownpace. Winners will receive up to $500 in cash prizes as well as publishing opportunities. We help with all your travel needs in AND Sitka offers RV parks, cabins and many camping areas located on and off the island. The trail follows the turquoise blue Indian River up through the valley to awaterfall. Located on Baranof Island, Sitka is the only community perched on the seaward, Sitka National Historical Park is Alaska's smallest national historical park, but its big on Alaska history and scenic beauty. All rights reserved. 2. Alaska is one of the top places in North America to see bears, and they are often only found in wilderness encounters. A succession of Russian buildings occupied the hill from 18041867, and on October 18, 1867, the Russians officially handed over Alaska to the United States on this site. There are also plenty of hiking trails you can take in varying levels of difficulty. Sitka, nestled on the rugged coastline of Alaskas Inside Passage, offers an unforgettable whale watching experience. Learn More. Skirmishes with the local Tlingits ultimately led to the Native group's ousting from the land. Note that many restaurants in Sitka are seasonal and may be temporarily closed during the colder, winter months. Learn about these ecologies while walking agently sloping trail of gravel and boardwalk. Dancers at Sheet'ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Community House. Because Sitka is so small (in contrast with Alaska's main hub, Anchorage), it can be explored on foot when the weather permits. With wildlife, islands, and WWII history, the waters around Sitka make for a fascinating exploration by kayak. A comfy bed, plenty of room to spread out, a full kitchen, and located right in Sitka's downtown, we were able to walk to everywhere in town that we wanted to go to. From the trailhead/parking area, the trail follows aridge with great views in all directions. It's not always easy to uncover reminders of Alaska's 135-year-long dalliance with the Russian Empire - until you dock in Sitka. Your must-have activity guide + map while in Alaska. Ocean fishing charters offer world-class salmon and halibut fishing. They'll get to touch starfish and anemones as well! Accessible only by air or sea, Sitka has plenty to offer its visitors. Arts and Culture in Alaska's Inside Passage, Ive decided its much more relaxing to see a brown bear from the boat than it is to see them blocking your hiking trail home Sitka National Historical Park. Youll look eagles in the eye at this raptor rehab and education center on the edge of Tongass National Forest. The park is located about 6 miles south of downtown and has a boardwalk, small sheltered picnic area, and free viewing scopes. Things to Do in Sitka | Frommer's It's also near enough to Juneau to make a whole Alaskan adventure out of a trip. The people were friendly, I spent all my money in the local shops, checked off a NPS Historical Site and learned how Totem Poles are made, and kayaked in a little bay with tiny float houses that I could totally see myself living in during the summer. Dubbed "flightseeing" on Visit Sitka's website, they provide several tour companies to choose from. Native Americans tell the stories of their culture through dance and gesture as well as talking candidly to guests about their traditions. Totem Trail in Sitka The number one free thing to do in Sitka is to walk the Totem Trail in the Sitka National Historic Park. The Russians had been in Sitka for 68 years when they decided to sell and go home. 15 Best Things to Do in Sitka (Alaska) - The Crazy Tourist If you are looking for an authentic souvenir of your travels to Sitka, then this is a good place to start. The staff here are incredibly knowledgable and friendly, and we spent much longer here than we thought we would because we were just having such a great time! Visitors can read through history on the signs along the path, and take plenty of photos of cannons and scenery. Trails for all skill levels explore the areas forest, coves, lakes, and alpine areas. Or, find your own inspiration. Sitka Visitor Information Centers. One such island is Baranof Island, home to the once Russian-ruled city of Sitka. You may even catch a glimpse of the salmon leaping up steam in the rivers, which is an amazing sight. We saw salmon jumping out of the water, starfish and sea urchin during our kayak trip, and we ended with warm cider and chowder. Visitors to Sitka by cruise will enjoy leisurely stepping off the boat in the morning, strolling into town to explore the shops, and scheduling a private tour or excursion to one or several of the local sites. It is one of southeast Alaska's only communities on the outer shores of the Inside Passage. Besides 14miles of paved roads, there are many mountain biking trails, and even anew, single-track route of the intimate experience of riding through old-growth forest. JEDC Southeast Cluster Initiative. Months. #visitsitka #mtverstovia #mountains #exploremore #optoutside #sitkaalaska #artistsoninstagram #watercolorartist #alaskaadventure #sitka #verstovia, On our All-Alaska Tour, you will have the opportunity to visit Sitka National Historical Park. Big ship or small ship? Refresh your spirit. Watch whales, hike, fish, visit local communities, andmore. Visit Sitka HIking Harbor Mountain, overviewing Sitka and Mt. Its also great for families, despite being alittle steep at points, thanks to fun trail features and fishing platforms at alake stocked with grayling. A Russian Orthodox Church found at Lincoln and Matsoutoff Streets in Sitka city is renowned for being the earliest Orthodox cathedral in the New World. It is an easy start from Sitka road but does get steeper and more difficult as you go along. Sitka is an island community boldly living between the mountains and sea, where the arts flourish and an ancient native culture still thrives. Learn about whales feeding habits, migrations, and biology while walking the boardwalk. Alaska Visitors Guide 2023 (Opens in new window) Celebrating Nurses (Opens in new window) . Sitka is an island community boldly living between the mountains and sea, where the arts flourish and an ancient native culture still thrives. Luckily, getting to Sitka is relatively easy. Make proper arrangements for transportation as part of travel planning. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Plan your trip, get insider secrets, view nearby attractions, listen to audio guides, and so much more! Bear Paw Charters offers private, all-inclusive day trips and longer tours on its luxury yachtperfect for whale watching, bear viewing, and experiencing Alaskas scenic majesty. Explore this man made archipelago, adecaying relic built to defend Alaska from foreign invasion during World WarII. This sparkling gem of a city, which kisses the Pacific Ocean on Baranof Islands west shore, is one of the oldest non-native settlements in the state and the former capital of Russian Alaska (when it was known as New Archangel). The trail ends shortly thereafter. I love hot springs, but I've never seen them protected like this, and the entire journey and visit is such a cool, unique experience - I would highly recommend! You can really get as close to nature as can be whilst taking a canoe or kayak out on the rivers, lakes or shores near to Sitka. Monthly travel tips, highlights, and savings! Anchorage, AK 99503 Check the best rental car prices here. Sitka Alaska Travel Guide | AlaskaTravel.com A century before the Klondike gold rush made Alaska world famous, Russian fur traders quietly settled the Sitka area as a colonial outpost of Russian America. 1. Insider's Guide to Sitka, Alaska: Free and Fun Things to Do in Sitka Free personal GPSdriven travel guide to Alaska. Refresh your spirit. Hughes House - A beautiful ocean front home located close to downtown Sitka. RELATED: A Destination Guide To Sitka, The Lesser-Known Gem Of Alaska. Holland America Line gives you two incredible ways to experience Alaska's incredible interior. Home - Visit Sitka Overlooking the Eastern Channel, this park is designed for whale watching, with 3covered viewing shelters, public-use binoculars, and 11 interpretive signs. Purchased by the State of Alaska in 1985, the Sheldon Jackson Museum was founded in 1888 to house an exceptional collection of Alaska Native Join us for a 6-day spring cruise April 20th - 27th, 2024 on the Inside Passage from Sitka to Petersburg, Alaska. 1. The first part of this season was super busy for me, but its calming down now , The sun is out, snow is melting, waterfalls are gushing and the start of our season is just around the corner (April 15th)! The last armed conflict with the Tlingits in Sitka and the beginning of Russian rule, this battle is memorialized with aplaque installed in 2011. Perched over downtown is Baranof Castle State Historic Site, originally a stronghold of the Kiks.di Tlingit clan. Come see what our resident & visiting artists, musicians, writers & performers are creating. This historical site is managed by Alaska State Parks and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Digital Visitors' Guide Library Whether you are dreaming of Sitka, or ready to plan your trip, our digital visitor's guides are packed full of information. Downtown Sitka features numerous art galleries, a fine bookstore, gift shops, several lodging options, and restaurants with great views and local seafood, all nestled between the mountains and the ocean. THE BEST OF ALASKA AND THE YUKON. And the trail can be accessed via public transport. Public Transport is called the "RIDE" and is a fixed-route bus service reaching all the residential areas of the community. To see all types of salmon and other fish, head to the Arched Bridge; at the glacially carved inlet of Redoubt Bay you can also spot fish, as well as whales, seals, and sea otters. more. $. Looking for a unique adventure? View past newsletters here. The Sitka National Historical Park features a remarkable collection of totem poles carved by Tlingit and Haida artists that are placed along a well-maintained accessible trail in the forest. Sitka is the only Inside Passage community that fronts the Pacific Ocean, hugging Baranof Island's west shore in the shadow of the impressive Mount Edgecumbe. (Rich McClear/KCAW) Sitka hosted more than 13,000 cruise . Park Sitka Tourism (2023): Best of Sitka, AK - Tripadvisor With a tour guide or group, you are safer and less likely to get lost but however you decide to explore, you are sure to see some amazing sights. . Explore Sitka through the lens of the photographer. Lodging. Skirmishes with the local Tlingits ultimately led to the Native group's ousting from the land. Get up close to birds of prey at the Alaska Raptor Center. PIN IT FOR LATER AND SHARE IT WITH OTHERS! The wild country of the Tongass National Forest surrounds Sitka on three sides with the Pacific Ocean on the fourth. Cruise Ship: Sitka is a very popular Alaskan cruise destination, and in the high season ships stop at the port daily. Trips available from Whittier, Homer, Seward, Juneau, and Sitka. Visiting Sitka, Alaska - Fun Facts - Alaska's Inside Passage Say that three times fast! more. Its had recent upgrades, so its easy to follow and there are rock benchesand Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano, provides an impressive view for much of the town. There are 40 miles of hiking trails that wind throughout the forested areas within the community. 4. RELATED: Take An Ultimate Charter Fishing Trip In Alaska. Looking for an unusual getaway or an inspiring retreat? more. Get Out on the Water With wildlife, islands, and WWII history, the waters around Sitka make for a fascinating exploration by kayak. The next part of the trail is an old logging road and comes out behind the baseball field. If you miss seeing abrown bear outdoors in Southeast Alaska, you can see several here, anon-profit parkand. Sitka was Alaskas first official Bike-Friendly Community, and it shows. Specifically, the weather is often more dramatic in Sitka due to its ocean exposure. As one of the larger ports in southeast Alaska, Sitka offers everything from campgrounds to first-class, full-service hotels. Shes a wine and gin enthusiast and charcuterie builder extraordinaire. Visit Sitka Inside Passage (907) 747-8604 [email protected] 104 Lake Street.
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