General Area Overview and Information Sources:
Perched on the open Pacific Ocean, surrounded by mountains and rich in history, Sitka is a treat for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. The Tlingit people have called Sitka home for thousands of years. Russian settlers, led by Alexander Baranov (for whom Sitka’s Banarof Island is named) occupied Sitka in the early 1800s and established it as the capital of Russian America.
A storied past mixed with jaw-dropping scenery sets Sitka, Alaska apart from other ports. Located on Baranof Island surrounded by the Sitka Sound’s icy blue water, it not only boasts lush scenery and captivating wildlife, Sitka offers a unique glimpse into Alaska history. Russia controlled Alaska from the mid-1700s until the United States purchased it in 1867, and Sitka was settled as the capital of Russian America with the name New Archangel.
Sail to Sitka on an Alaska Cruise today and you’ll see vestiges of Russia’s influence. Stroll past the onion dome of St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Russian Bishop’s House, both National Historic Landmarks. On a Sitka, Alaska shore excursion, stop by the visitor center of the Sitka National Historical park to peruse fascinating collections of Russian and Native Alaskan artifacts, and then join a ranger-led tour of the battlefield where Russia fought the native Tlingit people.
Surrounded by the Tongass National rain forest, nature abounds in Sitka, Alaska. A walk up Castle Hill offers the ideal vantage point to take in Mount Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano. Visits to the Fortress of the Bear and Alaska Raptor Center are in order for any animal-lover. Both provide the opportunity to see Alaska wildlife, such as bears or raptors up-close, but safely.
A storied past mixed with jaw-dropping scenery sets Sitka, Alaska apart from other ports. Located on Baranof Island surrounded by the Sitka Sound’s icy blue water, it not only boasts lush scenery and captivating wildlife, Sitka offers a unique glimpse into Alaska history. Russia controlled Alaska from the mid-1700s until the United States purchased it in 1867, and Sitka was settled as the capital of Russian America with the name New Archangel.
Sail to Sitka on an Alaska Cruise today and you’ll see vestiges of Russia’s influence. Stroll past the onion dome of St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Russian Bishop’s House, both National Historic Landmarks. On a Sitka, Alaska shore excursion, stop by the visitor center of the Sitka National Historical park to peruse fascinating collections of Russian and Native Alaskan artifacts, and then join a ranger-led tour of the battlefield where Russia fought the native Tlingit people.
Surrounded by the Tongass National rain forest, nature abounds in Sitka, Alaska. A walk up Castle Hill offers the ideal vantage point to take in Mount Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano. Visits to the Fortress of the Bear and Alaska Raptor Center are in order for any animal-lover. Both provide the opportunity to see Alaska wildlife, such as bears or raptors up-close, but safely.
< The community of Sitka is located on Baranof Island, adjacent to the open waters of the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by the Tongass National Forest. Sitka is part of the traditional homeland of the Tlingit people who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Sitka is a large town by Southeast Alaska standards, with a population of over 8,000 people, and it easily accommodates visitors hoping to explore the area. The town supports a significant amount of summer tourism as well as commercial fishing and other businesses dependent on the natural resources of the area. More than 230 bird species have been documented in the Sitka area. It boasts a significant seabird colony, as well as other attractions for birders such as the Alaska Raptor Center. Download the Southeast Alaska Birding Trail mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Our Tribal programs and services are rooted in our values, culture and Haa Kusteeyí – our way of life – that is inextricably connected to our homeland. We offer opportunities for learning, connection, creative expression, healing, and economic growth. We practice stewardship of our unceded land and waters, and live in harmony with other creatures that share this place. We extend love and support to our Elders, children, and our citizens in need of financial support. Learn more about our programs and services below. Offenbar hast du diese Funktion zu schnell genutzt. Du wurdest vorübergehend von der Nutzung dieser Funktion blockiert. Offenbar hast du diese Funktion zu schnell genutzt. Du wurdest vorübergehend von der Nutzung dieser Funktion blockiert. Another distinct advantage of choosing Sitka as your Alaskan fishing destination is that you're able to target all of the game fish for which the state is famous. You'll go fishing for dime-bright, ocean-run Alaska salmon right in the path of their migratory routes, targeting kings that peak in late May and June, and silvers that get consistent and plentiful July through September. Bottom fishing in Sitka waters is top-notch, and you'll be targeting pacific halibut, yelloweye rockfish, black rockfish, lingcod, and sablefish, aka black cod (if you like Chilean sea bass, you'll love sablefish). Best of all, you could target all of these species in a single day.Building Community, Connectedness, & Well-Being
Birding and Wildlife Resources:
