Sitka National Historical Park

Things To Do Near Sitka National Historical Park

Sitka National Historical Park offers both history and spectacular Alaskan wilderness. Start your trip in the visitor center and the Russian Bishop's House — then, slip on a rain jacket and head out onto the park's short but stunning trail network. With 2 miles of well-maintained paths, you can spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the rainforest and rocky beaches. Sitka is an easy walk or a short drive from the park, so you're never far from excellent local restaurants and attractions.

Hiking Trails

• Sitka National Historical Park Trail

  After you check out the visitor center, head outside to check out the park's trails. Start by going south along the water to find the park's famous totem poles, which are tucked into the trees. When you reach the end of the point, you'll see a small clearing near the water — this is the site of the Battle of Sitka. The rest of the trail network takes you into the rainforest, along the Indian River, and out to the Russian memorial site. The paths are wide and mostly flat, so they're accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

  Location

  Visitor Center

  Length

  2 miles

  Intensity

  Easy

• Indian River Trail

  Hike to a waterfall on the Indian River Trail. It starts at the end of Indian River Road, a short drive from the park. The path is relatively easy; it gains elevation gently and offers beautiful views of the forest and mountains. At the end, you'll find the picturesque Indian River Falls.

  Location

  Indian River Road, Sitka, AK 99835

  Length

  8.8 miles round-trip

  Intensity

  Easy

• Waterfront Trail

  Leave your car at the Sitka National Historical Park visitor center and walk west along Lincoln Street until you connect to the Sitka waterfront trail. This paved path runs along the shore, taking you past the bustling marina and all the way down to the Sitka Historical Center. The route is flat, fun, and ideal for families with kids.

  Location

  Visitor Center

  Length

  Varies

  Intensity

  Easy

Sightseeing

• Totem Poles

  Sitka National Historical Park is home to a variety of totem poles. Some of the poles date back to 1904; they were gifts from the Tlingit and Haida people to then-governor John Green Brady. Brady collected the poles to display at the Louisiana Purchase Exposition in St. Louis as a way to bring tourism to Alaska and help preserve the traditional way of life in the region. Over the years, a wide variety of new totem poles were added to the park. You'll find them clustered around the visitor center and scattered throughout the woods along the coastal path.

  Location

  Visitor Center

• Ranger-led Tours

  During the summer, check the park calendar and join a ranger-led tour. These educational sessions offer an in-depth look at the local and natural history of Sitka. Explore the Russian Bishop's House, check out the totem poles, or walk the trails with a ranger.

  Location

  Visitor Center

Museums

• Sitka National Historical Park Visitor Center

  The visitor center provides an excellent orientation to the history and Native American traditions of the Sitka region. Spend some time watching the park video, and then, head to the exhibits to discover the Tlingít culture. The historic blankets, clothing, and jewelry are particularly interesting. Make sure to seek out the exhibits about the purpose and history of totem poles; they provide valuable context when you head out to see the park's totem poles in person.

  Location

  139-163 Metlakatla St, Sitka, AK 99835

• Russian Bishop's House

  Discover a fascinating period in Alaskan history at the Russian Bishop's House. Built in 1842, this building was the headquarters of the Russian Orthodox Church. It's been restored to look as it did under Russian rule. During business hours, you can explore the rooms to see different religious works of art and get a feel for the region in the mid-1800s. Allow plenty of time; each room features exhibits, artifacts, historic photos, maps, and stories about the Russian experience in North America.

  Location

  501 Lincoln St, Sitka, AK 99835

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Old Harbor Books

  If you're in search of reading material for your trip, check out Old Harbor Books. Whether you're looking for a novel, a kid's book, or a book about Alaska, this friendly shop has you covered.

  Location

  201 Lincoln St, Sitka, AK 99835

• Russian American Co.

  Find a unique, Russian-themed souvenir at Russian American Co. This fascinating shop has gifts that you won't find anywhere else — bring home a set of Russian nesting dolls, imported treats, or gorgeous lacquered boxes. The store also carries Alaska-themed items.

  Location

  134 Lincoln St, Sitka, AK 99835

• Yellow Jersey Cycle Shop

  Explore the Alaskan coast on two wheels after you stop at the Yellow Jersey Cycle Shop. Whether you need a new bike, safety gear, or a spare part, the knowledgeable staff can help.

  Location

  329 Harbor Dr #101, Sitka, AK 99835

• Bayview Restaurant

  Dine with gorgeous views of the water at Bayview Restaurant. The dining room is bright and airy, and the excellent hot sandwiches and burgers are a great way to fill up after a day in the rainforest.

  Location

  407 Lincoln St Upstairs, Sitka, AK 99835

• Mangiare

  Located on the ground floor of the Sitka Hotel, Mangiareserves Italian dishes in a rustic atmosphere. Stop in for an Aperol spritz and charcuterie at happy hour, or enjoy an enormous plate of pasta for dinner.

  Location

  118 Lincoln St, Sitka, AK 99835

• Sitka Pel'Meni

  Keep exploring Sitka's Russian heritage at Sitka Pel'Meni. This casual spot specializes in pelmeni, or Russian-style dumplings; it's a great place for a quick meal or late-night snack.

  Location

  303 Lincoln St Ste 1, Sitka, AK 99835

How To Get To Sitka National Historical Park

Getting to Sitka National Historical Park is a bit of an adventure. You can fly into the local airport or come in on the Alaska Marine Highway System ferry, which accepts passenger vehicles and RVs. Once you reach Sitka, it's easy to get to the park; from downtown, head east on Lincoln Street. The visitor center is located at the eastern end of the street, less than 1 mile from town.

Address

103 Monastery St, Sitka, AK 99835

Fee: Entry fee $0

Sitka National Historical Park provides the opportunity to learn about a little-known part of American history. After you discover the Tlingit and Russian cultures, the local hiking trails provide plenty of outdoor entertainment. An RV is a fantastic way to experience both the park and the surrounding Alaskan wilderness.