Best Things to Do in Sitka Alaska: Exploring Alaska’s Hidden Gem

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Are you ready to explore Sitka?

Sitka, Alaska, is a charming town nestled on Baranof Island, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. With its lush forests, towering mountains, and serene waters, it’s a paradise for outdoor lovers.

You can go exploring Sitka with hiking trails, go kayaking, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery. The town is also known for its rich wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and eagles, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.

Another distinctive aspect of Sitka is its incredible natural surroundings. The town is nestled between the rugged mountains and the Pacific Ocean, offering easy access to outdoor activities like whale watching, kayaking, and hiking in the nearby Tongass National Forest.

Chances are you are visiting Sitka on an Alaskan Cruise and only there for a day. With such limited time, I want to help you create an unforgettable experience while visiting Sitka. Alaska Airlines offers daily flights to Sitka from Juneau and Seattle, making it easily accessible for travelers.

Getting to Know Sitka

About Sitka

Nestled on Baranof Island in Southeast Alaska, Sitka is a coastal town brimming with history and charm. With roots stretching back over 10,000 years, Sitka has been a home to the Tlingit people, Russian settlers, and American pioneers. This rich tapestry of cultures is evident in the town’s historic landmarks and vibrant community life.

A visit to Sitka National Historical Park offers a glimpse into the town’s storied past. Here, you can wander through trails adorned with totem poles, each telling a story of the Tlingit people. The park is not just a natural haven but a historical treasure trove, providing insights into the area’s significance.

St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Russian Bishop’s House are other must-see sites that reflect Sitka’s Russian heritage. These landmarks offer a fascinating look into the era when Russia controlled Alaska, showcasing beautiful architecture and intriguing artifacts.

Exploring these sites will give you a deeper appreciation of Sitka’s unique blend of cultures and its place in Southeast Alaska’s history.

Discover the Natural Wonders

Hiking, Wildlife, and the Alaska Raptor Center

Since Sitka is located in the Tongass National Park and has over 50 miles of trails to discover. There are easy-paced trails or challenging climbs that offer a perfect fit for all levels of accessibility.

Sitka National Historical Park – This park has numerous trails running from an easy 1 mile up to 10 miles. It’s relatively flat and walks past several totem poles. It’s not only a scenic hike but a nice historic one too. This is definitly the easiest and most accessible trail.

Sitka’s Cross Trail – If you are traveling with young kids or elderly adults, this is a great trail to try. It’s a wide gravel trail that’s mostly flat and easy to walk. It also takes you through neighborhoods and some of downtown so when you’re ready for lunch, you’re right there!

Kaasda Héen (Indian River) Trail – If you’re looking for a more scenic trail with a little bit of difficulty, try out the Indian River Trail. It takes you through the forest and along the Kaasda Héen (Indian River). You can see salmon in the river as well as crossing over several logs and experiencing views of the Three Sisters mountains.

The Forest and Muskeg Trail is an easy hike that showcases Alaska’s unique ecosystems, including temperate rainforests and muskeg areas. The trail features gravel pathways and boardwalks, encouraging visitors to engage with the natural flora and fauna through self-guided materials.

The Mosquito Cove Trail is an accessible 1.25-mile loop within Tongass National Forest. It offers scenic views of the Alaskan coastline and surrounding hemlock forests and cedars, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

National Parks and Reserves

Exploring Sitka includes places like the Sitka National Historical Park, a wonderful place to explore both nature and history. You can walk along the scenic trails that wind through the forest and along the water. The park is home to beautiful totem poles that showcase the artistry of the Tlingit people.

As you stroll through the park, you’ll also find signs that explain the history of the area, helping you understand its significance. It’s a peaceful spot where you can enjoy the sounds of birds and the gentle lapping of the waves.

In addition to walking and sightseeing, the park often hosts cultural events and demonstrations. You might catch a glimpse of traditional dance or music, giving you a taste of local culture. There are also ranger-led programs that teach visitors about the park’s wildlife and history.

Whether you’re interested in hiking, learning, or simply soaking in the beautiful surroundings, Sitka National Historical Park offers something for everyone. It’s a perfect place to connect with both nature and the rich heritage of Sitka.

Sitka Sound

Sitka Sound is a breathtaking expanse of water that cradles the town, offering stunning vistas of mountains and lush forests. This picturesque body of water is a haven for marine wildlife, making it a prime spot for nature enthusiasts.

Imagine gliding through the serene waters of Sitka Sound on a kayak or a boat tour, surrounded by the majestic beauty of Southeast Alaska. The sound is teeming with life; you might spot humpback whales breaching, sea otters playfully floating on their backs, or sea lions basking on rocky outcrops. The abundance of marine wildlife makes every trip on Sitka Sound an unforgettable adventure.

For those who prefer to stay on land, the views from the shore are equally captivating. Whether you’re watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink or simply enjoying the tranquil scenery, Sitka Sound is a must-visit destination that showcases the natural splendor of Sitka.

Immerse in the Local Culture and History

Sitka National Historical Park and Other Historical Sites

• St. Michael’s Cathedral: These are important pieces of Sitka’s history and culture and St. Michael’s Cathedral is a beautiful building with stunning architecture and lovely artwork inside, making it a peaceful place to explore.
• The Russian Bishop’s House: is a fascinating historic site where you can learn about the time when Russia controlled Alaska and how the local community lived. Both places help you understand the unique blend of cultures in Sitka, and they offer a glimpse into the past that you won’t want to miss.
• Ghosts of Historic Sitka: If you love ghost tales and history, you’ll love this exciting ghost tour of Sitka. Discover the hauntings and darker history of the sleepy Alaskan town. Visit the former Red Light District and learn about old shipwrecks.

Museums and Galleries

• Sheldon Jackson Museum: Discover Indigenous art and artifacts at this small museum near downtown Sitka.
• Sitka History Museum: A key destination for learning about the historical significance of Sitka, with exhibits covering Tlingit, Russian, and American history.
• Salmon Hatchery at the Sitka Sound Science Center: Highlights its educational value in teaching visitors about salmon life cycles and the relationship between hatcheries and the local ecosystem, with hands-on experiences available.
• The Sitka Sound Science Center: provides a hands-on approach to learning about local marine life, further enhancing the connection between the community and its environment. Together, these features create a unique experience that combines history, culture, and nature, setting Sitka apart from other Alaskan towns.

Alaska Native Culture

Sitka is deeply rooted in Alaska Native culture, with the Tlingit people having called this area home for thousands of years. Their rich heritage is woven into the fabric of the town, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.

At Sitka National Historical Park, you can immerse yourself in the traditions and history of the Tlingit people. The park features an impressive collection of totem poles, each intricately carved and rich with symbolism. These totem poles are not just art; they are storytellers, conveying the legends and history of the Tlingit.

The park also hosts daily ranger-guided walks and traditional dance performances, providing a deeper understanding of the Tlingit culture. These experiences offer a rare opportunity to connect with the heritage of the Tlingit people and appreciate their enduring legacy in Sitka.

The Best Tours In Sitka for Cruise Ship Passengers

Whale Watching Boat Tours in Sitka Sound

Sitka is a great place to do a little Whale watching while visiting Alaska. The Whale Watching and wildlife tour of Sitkatakes you on a boat ride to see humpback whales, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, rafts of sea otters, lumbering brown bears, and perched bald eagles.

Whale Park is also a prime location for whale watching from a coastal boardwalk, where visitors can often spot humpback whales and enjoy life-sized whale sculptures, interpretive signage, free telescopes, and the ability to listen to whale songs through a hydrophone.

Wildlife Adventure Tours

For a more affordable option, you can take this Sitka Scenic Tour to see the Sheldon Jackson Museum, Alaska Pioneer Home, and St. Michael’s Cathedral. You’ll also get to go to the fortress of the Bears. Transportation to and from Fortress of the Bear is limited so booking a tour is your best bet to get back and forth to this location.

My favorite tour is this Premium Sitka scenic tour. You’ll get to go to all the top-rated spots like the Fortress of the Bear, the Alaska Raptor Center, and the Sitka National Historic Park, as well as the local totem poles. This tour also includes transportation and is a great price.

Food and Drink in Sitka

Seafood and Local Cuisine

Sitka is a paradise for seafood lovers, with its waters teeming with salmon, halibut, and crab. The town’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of fresh seafood, locally foraged ingredients, and traditional Alaskan recipes, offering a true taste of the region.

When in Sitka, indulging in the local cuisine is a must. Many of the town’s restaurants serve up dishes that highlight the bounty of the sea. Imagine savoring a bowl of rich seafood chowder, brimming with chunks of fresh fish and shellfish, or enjoying a plate of perfectly smoked salmon, a local delicacy.

For a unique culinary experience, try reindeer sausages or dishes featuring locally foraged ingredients. These specialties offer a taste of Sitka’s unique flavors and culinary traditions. Whether you’re dining at a cozy café or a fine dining restaurant, the food in Sitka is sure to be a highlight of your visit.

By incorporating these new sections, the article will provide a comprehensive guide to exploring Sitka, covering its natural beauty, rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.

Getting Around Sitka

Downtown Sitka is located not too far from the cruise ship terminals. The ships provide you with a shuttle bus that takes you to and from downtown Sitka. Once you get there, there are cabs but they are very limited. It took us over 30 minutes just to get a cab to take us to the Fortress of the Bear.

Once we got to Fortress of the Bear, it took a really long time to find a can to take us to the Raptor Center. From there, it was nearly impossible to get a ride back to downtown Sitka, so we ended up walking the mile it took to get there.

The walk itself was easy and had pretty scenery but probably couldn’t be done if you are traveling with young kids or elderly adults. So if you are going to be exploring Sitka, I recommend booking a tour that includes transportation.

Sitka is very small and renting cars is not an option for the day. Uber and Lyft are also very limited.

Strolling Through Downtown Sitka

Downtown Sitka is very small and located right where the shuttles drop you off. There isn;t a ton to do in this area but I hihgly recommend setting some time aside to walk around. There are so many cute parks and statues where you can see the Russian influence.

All the restaurants are located in this area as well as all the shopping. Downtown Sikta is the least touristy of all your Alaskan Cruise stops so take some time to visit the shops and buy some authentic hand made souvenirs or grab a bite to eat.

Exploring Sitka For a Day

While Sitka may not have the most exciting excursions or adventures available, this small sleepy Alaska town is what Alaska is really all about. Lots of wildlife and tons of Alaskan scenery to make you feel like you are deep in the Alaskan wilderness.

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