Sitka Alaska: Discover a Quiet Alaskan Adventure

Sitka is an undeniably picturesque, beautiful village that offers world-class fishing, a long and rich history and culture as well as once in a lifetime wilderness and wildlife viewing.

The Smithsonian has named Sitka, Alaska as one of the best small towns to visit. The three cultures of Russia, America and the Tlingit Indians have woven a unique heritage through the town. The history, music, dance, religions, food and customs have been intertwined into the present day village. Located off the east coast of the Gulf of Alaska in the Alexander Archipelago, Sitka is surrounded by the protective peaks of Mount Edgecumbe and outlined with the Tongass Rain Forest.

History of Sitka
The Tlingit Indians have lived and thrived on the land in and around Sitka for at least a thousand years. The pillars of their philosophy is animist and naturalist, a strong diet of local meat and seafood and a matrilineal society. In the late 18th century, Russians invaded the coast, causing many years of strife with the Tlingit, ending in a battle the Indians lost in 1804. America bought Alaska from the Russians in 1867; the transferring of ownership and power took place in Sitka. The town now honors the history of each era with a multitude of museums that showcase artifacts and art.

Alaskan Wilderness & Wildlife
The mammals and birds that reside in Sitka and its nearby forest are most notably the Black-Tailed Deer, Brown Bear and the American Bald Eagle. The black-tail deer can be found throughout the year on the main land of Sitka and surrounding islands. The bears and eagles are plentiful in Alaska’s natural setting but you can also visit local sanctuaries or take a guided tour to best experience wildlife viewing. The Alaska Raptor Center, located on 17 acres, has made it their mission to provide medical treatment, educate the public and conduct research on bald eagles and other birds. Fortress of the Bear, also located in Sitka, cares for and rehabilitates sick or orphaned bears. The safe haven they’ve created for the bears makes it a great way for guests to view the bears in their natural habitat. In spring and the beginning of winter, humpback whales are abundant in the waters of Sitka Sound.

The versatile terrain of the Alaska panhandle off Baranof Island creates a vast and unforgettable wilderness adventure. Mount Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano, provides an amazing backdrop with its mountainous summit. Tongass Rainforest, the largest National Forest in the United States at 17 million acres, follows the east coast of the Gulf of Alaska. The rainforest is home to not only native wildlife but also the three indigenous peoples of Alaska.