The easiest way to see a bear while in Sitka is at the Fortress of the Bear center.
The Fortress of the Bear is a rehabilitation center for orphaned and abandoned bear cubs. The bears reside in expansive enclosures that cover ¾ of an acre. These enclosures were constructed with salvaged wood from a local mill and are filled with lush vegetation, large rocks (which replicate their natural habitat), and ample bodies of water.
Sitka Wildlife Rescue in Alaska is home to a variety of black and brown bears. These animals have been rescued from the wild and are unable to be returned, so this paradise provides them with plenty of space to roam and enjoy the great outdoors with plenty of playgrounds for their entertainment.
The Fortress of the Bear is currently home to eight bears - including three black bears - and has worked hard over the years to find suitable homes for them in zoos across the country.
Visitors can get up close and personal with Alaska's majestic wildlife, safely watch the bears from a short distance away, and admire their natural beauty. The bears are also fed freshly caught salmon directly from the nearby hatchery, allowing guests to witness firsthand their natural eating behaviors.
With its amazing views and opportunities for capturing breathtaking photos, it's no surprise that the Fortress of the Bear remains one of Alaska's most popular attractions for locals and visitors alike!
