Surrounded by the majestic mountains and Tongass Rainforest, reflecting on the waters of the harbor, Sitka is a pristine setting to explore. And the charming town also has fascinating culture and art. Experiencing Sitka Alaska’s top attractions connects you with nature and its beauty, along with the historic Tlingit and Russian cultures.
Sitka is on the Alaskan Panhandle, spreading out over Baranof and Chichagof Islands. These islands are part of the Alexander Archipelago on the Pacific Ocean. It was part of Russia until 1867. Furthermore, Imperial Russia was the dominant power in the North Pacific for over 125 years, and Sitka was the Russian colonial capital. The Sitka National Historical Park is the site, where Russia defeated the indigenous Tlingit people. In addition, Sitka was a major sea otter fur trade area in the 19th century. The sea otters were almost hunted to extinction. Today, the sea otter population still remains threatened.
Sitka is surrounded by mountains, including the dormant volcano, Mt. Edgecumbe. Other 3 mountains standing out in the sound’s skyline are Big Sister (Faith), Middle Sister (Charity) and Little Sister (Hope). In addition, Sitka is immersed in the lush Tongass National Forest, the world’s largest temperate rainforest.
Sitka is one of my favorite destinations for just relaxing and connecting with nature. Firstly, I want to give a shout out to my favorite place for coffee, homemade meals and good books: Old Harbor Books and Back Door Café.
Sitka Alaska’s Top Ten Attractions
Sitka National Historical Park:
Also called Totem Park, this is Alaska’s oldest national park. It’s the site of the last battle between the Tlingit and Russians in 1804.
Along the scenic coastal walk are incredible Tlingit and Haida totem poles. Their artistic display of stories retell the native heritage. Also, there’s a restored Russian Bishop’s House open for tours of the former orphanage.
Wildlife Boat Tour: These boat tours are extraordinary for both the marine wildlife and the scenic background of Tongass Rainforest and mountains, like the dormant volcano, Mount Edgecumbe. In the Sitka Sound there is abundant marine life, such as, sea otters, seals, dolphins and whales. My best boat tours involved seeing sea otters and the humpback whales.
Related: Seeing the Awesome Humpback Whales of Alaska’s Inside Passage
Most noteworthy, is not to miss whale-watching in September. Most of the humpback whales congregate in Sitka Sound before migrating to Hawaii and Mexico. It’s incredible to see whale spray (called ‘blow’) from endless blowholes everywhere throughout the sound. Overall, this was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life with so many whales, literally hundreds in the sound.
There is an Alaska Raptor Center in both Sitka and Ketchikan.
Alaska Raptor Center: Here they rescue and rehabilitate about 200 injured raptors/year. If they are not able to be rehabilitated, then the raptors live out their lives at the center. They also perform research on raptors, particularly the bald eagles. Overall, the center aims to educate the public and visitors.
Fortress of the Bear: In Alaska orphaned cubs are often shot, because there is no alternative. However, Fortress of the Bear aims to fill this gap, by rescuing cubs and giving them health and a along life. The rescue center currently has 8 bears. Here, visitors observe from a viewing platform the bears in their native habitat, a ¾ acre area of Tongass Rainforest.
Baranof Castle State: Also called Castle Hill, this park was originally a fortification site by the Tlingit natives. Then Russia occupied the hill from 1804 – 1867. Most noteworthy, this is where Alaska became officially transferred from Russia to the United States in 1867. This hill has walking trails to the top with panoramic views of the town and harbor.
St. Michael’s Cathedral:
This Russian Orthodox Cathedral was built in the 19th century and includes an iconic onion dome. Also, this was the first Orthodox Cathedral built in North America. It’s in the heart of downtown Sitka.
Sitka Sound Science Centre: This center is a non-profit organization dedicated to research and education. It includes an Aquarium and hatchery. There are various exhibits, such as, a touch tank and a 60-feet deep aquarium showcasing various fish, such as, sculpins, rockfish and the resident wolf eel named Wanda. In addition, there’s a skeleton dislay of a killer whale.
Island Artist’s Gallery: This showcases a cooperative of 25 local artists, offering samples of authentic Alaskan art for sale and viewing. There are various handmade artworks, such as, watercolors, paintings, jewelry and clay pots. This is a great place to shop for souvenirs or gifts.
Overall, there are numerous breathtaking trails among the Tongass Rainforest and mountainous terrain with rewarding views of the sound.
Hiking the Sitka Trails: Beaver Lake and Herring Cove Trail Loop is a 3-mile easy path for families with picnic tables and places to enjoy the view. Also, Starrigavan Recreation area is a moderate must-see for birders that’s over 3 miles long, including boardwalks over marshes. Another more difficult hike is Mount Edgecumbe, accessible by sea taxi to Kruzof Island. It takes you upwards 3,200 feet, over 7 miles to spectacular views of the crater and surrounding area.
Kayak or Canoe on Sitka Sound: With the backdrop of the lush Tongass Rainforest among rugged mountains Sitka Sound is one of the most picturesque places to take a kayak or canoe ride. Also, many rewarding destinations are only available by kayak. Sitka Sound Ocean Adventures offers various water tours and expeditions to experience the essence of this region on water.
Overall, Sitka Alaska’s Top Ten Attractions
Sitka is the ideal hub from which to enjoy the wilderness, sound and wildlife in the area. There is something for everyone from shopping for art to kayaking the sound. Just remember, always have a raincoat as you never know when the weather will change.
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