Welcome to Sitka, Alaska – a charming seaside town that boasts stunning natural scenery, fascinating history, and a unique blend of Tlingit and Russian cultures. Located on Baranof Island, Sitka is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those looking for a relaxing getaway.
A Russian Capital
Sitka’s rich history spans thousands of years, and the city is an important ancestral home to the Tlingits, the original inhabitants of Southeastern Alaska. In 1741, Russian explorer, Alexei Chirikov arrived, and the Tlingits isolated island was quickly occupied by Russian traders. The Russian-American Company established a trading post in 1799, and in 1804, Sitka became the capital of Russian America.
In 1867, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia, and Sitka remained the capital until 1906, when the capital was moved to Juneau. During World War II, Sitka was a major center for military activity and served as a base for the United States military. After the war, the city began to grow as a commercial and fishing center.
Today, Sitka is a thriving community of approximately 9,000 people, and is home to a number of cultural attractions and landmarks, including the Sitka National Historical Park, the Russian Bishop's House, and St. Michael's Cathedral. The city's economy is largely based on fishing and tourism, and offers an exciting adventure for everyone who visits its beautiful shores.
Why You Should Visit
From its rich history to its stunning natural scenery and abundance of wildlife, Sitka has something to offer for everyone. Visitors can explore the Sitka National Historical Park and learn about the area's Tlingit and Russian heritage, or take a guided tour of the city's many cultural and historic landmarks.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take part in activities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking, while wildlife lovers can observe whales, sea otters, and bald eagles in their natural habitat. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Sitka is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Alaska.
What to See and Do
While there are plenty of trails and outdoor activities to keep you busy for weeks, a visit to Sitka is not complete without hitting some of the top attractions. Here’s a rundown of top things to do when visiting Sitka, Alaska:
Explore the Sitka National Historical Park: This park is dedicated to the history and culture of the Tlingit people and features a collection of totem poles, a visitor center with exhibits, and a nature trail. Be sure to take your time walking through the park to read about the Tlingit culture and how Sitka’s original inhabitants still preserve their way of life today.
Visit the Russian Bishop's House: This historic building was once the home of the Russian Orthodox Bishop and is now a museum that showcases the history of the Russian-American Company and its impact on Sitka. Add this to your list during a rainy day or to learn more about the fascinating history of the area.
Stroll through downtown Sitka: Downtown Sitka is full of unique shops, restaurants, and galleries, and is the perfect place to get a taste of local culture. Stop in one of the cafes for a warm drink on a cool morning or swing by the brewery for an afternoon brew.
Go on a wildlife tour: Sitka is home to an abundance of wildlife, including humpback whales, sea otters, and bald eagles. Visitors can take a guided tour to see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat through a variety of tour operators found at the harbor. Whales can be sighted throughout the summer, and marine mammals are found throughout the year.
Visit the Sitka Sound Science Center: This educational center offers interactive exhibits and programs focused on the marine and terrestrial ecosystems of the Sitka Sound region. This is a great option in case you have a few days of rain or want a rest from long days out on the water.
Take a kayaking tour: Sitka's stunning natural scenery can be best experienced by kayak. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the area's waterways and observe local wildlife along the tree-lined banks. Keep a sharp eye out for fishing eagles or rafts of sea otters.
Hike the Mt. Verstovia Trail: This challenging but rewarding trail offers stunning views of Sitka Sound and the surrounding mountains. Pack some water, a couple layers of clothes, snacks, bear spray, and a map, and you are ready to go! The trail is around 4.5 miles out-and-back, and is considered challenging. Plan to spend at least 5 hours out on the hike, and pack plenty of layers and bear spray.
Getting to Sitka
As a remote coastal community, Sitka is only accessible by air and sea. The quickest way to get there is by plane, with commercial flights operating from Juneau, Ketchikan, and Seattle via Alaska Airlines. Smaller commercial operations and charter flights are available throughout southeast Alaska. Flight times can vary depending on the departure city, but typically range from 2 to 3 hours.
If you prefer a more scenic route, the Alaska Marine Highway System operates ferries that make regular stops in Sitka, providing a unique opportunity to see the rugged coastline and wilderness of Southeast Alaska. The ferry journey from Juneau to Sitka takes approximately 9 hours, while the journey from Ketchikan takes about 14 hours.
Setting Off to Remote Alaska
Sitka is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Sitka is a must-visit destination. From visiting cultural heritage sites to kayaking amongst a pod of whales to hiking in tranquil forests, Sitka offers an adventure for every traveler.
