best hikes in sitka, alaska

Before starting the trail, all hikers must call in at theTrail Centerin Skagway to obtain backpacking permits (adult/child $55/27.45), check out trail conditions and watch a bear safety video. Another great option is the hike and float, where you go out to Dyea, hike up a bit of the Chilkoot Trail and then raft down the Taiya River. Located about 40 minutes north of Anchorage, this is the gateway to Chugach State Park, which has several good trails. The Rainbird Trail is a wonderful hike through the legendary coastal rainforest of the Southeast Alaska under a canopy of ancient trees. Plentiful mountain goats and Dall sheep are harbingers that this is going to be a steep climb, but a variety of trail options make it doable for all ages. * Yet they all still give you gorgeous views, as well as up-close experiences in the Alaskan outdoors. Your Aurora Borealis viewing night begins right at your Fairbanks accommodation, so you dont need to plan how to get to us and you will save additional taxi costs. Looking for the best hiking in Sitka? An easy to moderate hike, take West Glacier to the West Glacier Spur Trail, watching for the pink ribbons to keep on track, and marvel at the gorgeous rainforest, waterfall, and lake views up to the lookout point over Mendenhall. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. 6. Together the routes can be combined into a rugged 10-hour walk for hardy hikers or an overnight excursion into the mountains surrounding Alaskas capital city. 12 Best Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska, The 12 Best US Hiking Trails with Waterfalls, Hanging Rock State Park: The Complete Guide, The 10 Best Hiking Trails Found Inside America's National Parks, 10 Tips for Hiking California's Lost Coast Trail, Isle Royale National Park: The Complete Guide. If Alaska is a little far to travel, there is also an amazing live webcam of the bears at Brooks Falls so you can watch the action from the comfort of your sofa! 27 May 2018 View Southeast Alaska has no shortage of dormant or extinct volcanos, mountains, lush valleys, and beaches. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Top hiking spots in and near Sitka Sitka, Alaska Indian River Trail 8.82 mi / 794 ft gain TRAVEL ALASKA. Sturdy hiking shoes are a must all year long, but even beginner hikers can march this route without fear. Learn more: The best things to do in Skagway, Alaska. You can also take guided Ranger walks, out of the visitors center, so you can learn more about and the flora and fauna along the way. They are slick. Susan R. Serna / Shutterstock. Sitka is a fantastic Alaska cruise port for hiking and exploring on your own! Ways to avoid bear conflicts while fishing, hiking, camping, and hunting, The complete rundown of how to pack for aday hike in Alaska, Questions to ask when choosing acompatible backpacking partner, Easy steps you can take to block out the nuisance of Alaskas statebird. Staff are good about posting notices when a bear has been in the area recently. Sitka is the former capital of czarist Russia and home to the beautiful Indian River Trail located a short mile from town. Located just a short walk from the charming town of Sitka, the Indian River Trail is an enchanting walk that rewards hikers with a 70-foot waterfall at one end. If you are looking for a steeper hike with a good view, try Mt Riley, a 5.5 mile round trip hike with about 1500 feet of elevation gain. Last updated: [wpautoterms last_updated_date]If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us. Its popular with walkers, runners and bicyclists who get their daily exercise while also getting views of the Chugach Mountains, downtown Anchorage and, on a clear day, even Denali (Mt. Find how many days you need based on what you want to see and do in Alaska. April Bowl (2.5 miles round-trip) and the 11-mile round-trip hike to the beautiful blue-green Reed Lakes are two of the best hikes here. It was still pretty though. Our picks for the best tours and experiences during your Alaska Cruise. However, the guided hike is well worth the price and includes all of the glacier hiking hear that you'll need to safely traverse the ice. This can make it somewhat discouraging for day hikers, although those who push through the tough starts at either trailhead, will soon be rewarded with easier walking and amazing landscapes to explore. The trail is a path into Juneaus mining history and also provides access to two other popular treks: Mt Juneau Trail and Granite Creek Trail. Haines is famous as Alaskas bald eagle mecca, and photographers from all over the world flock to witness The Gathering in October, when the eagles gorge on salmon in the Chilkat River. Exit Glacier Guides gives you the chance to tread upon Sewards backyard glacier. The upper section of the route is snow-covered for much of the year; bring a jacket and watch for ice bridges above creeks. Plan your journey with this gorgeous printed map. The first stretch winds around reedy Hartney Bay, followed by a mellow 2-mile climb to the tree line through forests and wildflowers (and, in rainy weather, lots of mud rubber boots are recommended). Youll have great views of the Lynn Canal and surrounding mountains as you walk along the water. Im a fourth generation Seattleite who lived in Alaska for 7 years and I still spend lots of time there every year. Sign-up for any of the following email series to help plan your Alaska trip. This will occasionally lure both black and brown bears into the area, so it is essential that make noise while hiking, bring a can of bear spray, and know what to do should you come face to face with these creatures. Big ship or small ship? Also the trail up to the tram is very muddy and has a lot of roots. For the first time ever, Lonely Planet's experts have compiled the USA's 500 most memorable, beautiful, surprising and compelling experiences. I highly recommend this as you can see the gorgeous forests that Southeast Alaska is known for, as well as see some great views of the area and see lots of birds. A heavily forested start gradually gives way to wider views of the tundra, Resurrection Bay, and the surrounding mountain range as lovely Lost Lake beckons. It's 8.4 miles in length and a bit more challenging but provides even better views of the surrounding landscapes. For visitors willing to brave the rough, unpaved 60-mile road in to McCarthy (Southcentral Alaska), the 4-mile round-trip hike out to the Root Glacier is absolutely splendid. Frequently asked trail questions about Sitka National Historical Park. Shuttles leave at 8am. All rights reserved. Your must-have activity guide + map while in Alaska. On a clear day, you can see for miles, providing a great sense of the scope and scale of Alaska while you catch your breath. See the Wildlife Trips available from Whittier, Homer, Seward, Juneau, and Sitka. AllTrails has 5 great trails for walking and more. Most ports will also have hiking shore excursions if you prefer to have someone else figure out a great hike to enjoy that guarantees youll get back to the ship on time. If you're looking for elevation gain, Sitka National Historical Park has you covered. It goes from the middle of town near the docks up the side of a forested hill with a couple of view points down to the harbor before you pop out at a surprisingly large and peaceful forested lake, perfect for swimming! Another 1.25 miles from here you will begin to clear the forested area onto the pe From the trailhead, youll travel along a cascading creek ascending through gravel, rocks steps and a couple boardwalks within a dense hemlock, spruce and yellow cedar forest. Full-day Tours. EPIC views and scenery, OFFICIAL STATE OF ALASKA VACATION AND TRAVEL INFORMATION, Copyright 2023 Alaska Travel Industry Association. If youre looking for a very challenging hike (this one will take your whole day in port and only if youre a relatively quick hiker) with a rewarding view, give Deer Mountain a try! A LEGEND LIFE. Best hike near Ketchikans cruise ship dock, Best hike near Skagways cruise ship dock, Best hike near the Haines cruise ship dock, Best hike near the Hoonah/Icy Strait Point cruise ship dock, What to wear for a hike in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, The best things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska, DIY travelers guide to having a blast on a cruise, https://www.ordinary-adventures.com/privacy-policy/. Remember to use #nationalparkspartnership on your best national park pictures for your chance to be featured on this page! Note that because hiking is off-trail, you must have sturdy footwear and pack rain gear, food and water. Then its another 3 miles along the ridge to reach Mt Juneau. Late in summer, berries are plentiful and provide delectable deliciousness as you rest on the overlook bench with bald eagles soaring overhead taking in the surrounding glory of The Last Frontier. Beware of bears; theyre common here. Highlights. Short walks include the -mile Rodak Nature Loop and the 3-mile Albert Loop. Your cruise ship will offer hiking excursions, which is a great way to go if you dont want to research them or worry about getting back to the ship on time. No matter where you hike, you should always take the proper precautions and be bear aware. . Lower Dewey Lake is about two miles round trip with 500 feet of elevation gain. Smugglers Cove is a mostly flat 4 mile round trip hike around the point from the hustle and bustle to a peaceful and beautiful view of the upper Lynn Canal. Most enjoy Lost Lake as a six-hour day hike, but overnight camping on the soft tundra under the stars is a check off the bucket list. Sony a7riii These hikes are guided so you dont get lost or miss the train on the way back. Those who take on this journey will be treated to some of the best views of the Kenai Mountains imaginable, passing through beautiful valleys, past towering waterfalls, and around alpine lakes. Most plan on a few days to complete this Last Frontier odyssey, but if youre short on time, a day hike on the open tundra still provides sweeping views of the unparalleled Talkeetna and Alaska (Denali) ranges, and theres one more check off your bucket list. No matter what time of the year you visit, however, you're sure to be captivated by the scenic Alaskan backcountry. Since this is an urban trail, bear sightings are pretty rarebut the closer you get to Kincaid Park, your odds of seeing a moose jump considerably. If you want to make your walk longer, you can use the trail to connect with the East Glacier Loop, a 3.5-mile trail that follows the glacier trim line (which is the highest point reached by glacial ice). It is easily the most visited peak in the entire state, but it is easy to see why. The route is lovely all year round, but especially so the autumn when the leaves begin to change. There are really two trailheads; the main "upper" trail starts at mile 0.6 of Skilak Lake Rd, and the other at mile 2.3. From the summit, it possible to look down on the city, as well as Cook Inlet, the Chugach and Alaska Ranges, and if the weather cooperates, possibly even Denali itself. Learn more: The best things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska. Popular things to do Ports of Call Tours Nature and Wildlife Tours Top Picks Water Tours Cultural & Theme Tours Private & Custom Tours Likely to Sell Out Food, Wine & Nightlife Luxury & Special Occasions Walking Tours Kid-Friendly Multi-day Tours Shopping Passes & Offers Art Classes Theatre Shows Ways to tour Sitka Just one of more than 30 trails found inside the Chugach National Forest, the Lost Lake Trail is nonetheless a standout option for hikers. Well enough with my life, for this photo wewerethetide and I hiked to a spot north of Fairbanks and saw this clear patch in the forest and just started shooting. State capital Juneau is famous for Alaskan politics, gold, and the exquisite Mendenhall Glacier. What other trails have you hiked in Alaska that are high on scenery but low on stressand full of fellow hikers? Dubbed the "last frontier," Alaska is a place that has more than its fair share of stunning landscapes to explore. In the summer months, some sections can get a bit thick with overgrown brush, so wear your long pants. A second option is via the Curry Ridge Trail accessed from the Kesugi Ken Campground a quarter mile north of the South Denali Overlook. This strenuous and yet extremely popular 4-mile trail (six- to eight-hour round-trip) follows Exit Glacier up to Harding Ice Field. These trails have an average 4.4-star rating from 386 AllTrails community reviews. Just a stones throw from the charming fishing town of Seward on the Kenai Peninsula, Lost Lake Trail is a 14-mile moderate endeavor featuring mild elevation gains and spectacular scenery. After exhibiting the poles Alaska Governor Brady sent the poles to Sitka where they were erected in the "government park", now Sitka National Historical Park. It has eight massive national parks and more public lands than any other state in the U.S. by a vast margin. Trail surface: wooden boardwalk with railings; There are a few different approaches for day hiking Kesugi. The classic Alaska Cruise, offered by such companies as Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean. Reviews (152) Photos (236) Activities (158) Completed (263) 5 4 3 2 1 4.9 152 reviews Write review Sort by: Courtney Oakes June 24, 2023 Hiking Beautiful hike! Campgrounds, RV Parks & Public Use Cabins. If youre on a smaller ship, you may anchor in the harbor and have a tender shuttle to the dock. Access Lost Lake Trail from Primrose Campground on Kenai Lake (Mile 17 of the Seward Highway) or from Mile 5 of the Seward Highway. Stretching for 13.8 miles out and back, the route distinguishes itself thanks to the wide variety of terrains that it passes through. Read our Privacy Policy. Exit Glacier is one of the most popular road-accessible glaciers in Alaska, and its trailhead is just 10-15 minutes north of Seward. The trail that the runners use is open to hikers all year round and provides fantastic views of the town of Seward and the Kenai Fjords beyond. Sitka Walking Tour - Crescent Harbor to the Raptor Center boasts the most elevation gain with 43 m of total ascent. The trail begins at mile 0.9 on the Park Road, and theres a small parking area near the railroad tracks. National Park Service (NPS) rangers lead moderate to strenuous three- to five-hour hikes deep into the heart of the park on a daily basis during summer. But it's a beautiful hike anytime, because the views from up top facing Mount Edgecumbe and overlooking Sitka Sound are awesome. . . You have a couple of options here. Find information things to do, history, Alaska Native culture, hiking, whale watching, fishing, kayaking, and museums. Some days its good to look at things a little more closely.from a recent fall hike at Eklutna Lake. For those planning hikes on their own, Juneau and Skagway have the easiest hikes to get to from a ship, where there are trails literally right next to the dock or very close. If you are not a strong hiker, look for offshoots of more challenging trails which often provide fabulous views as well. Mount Verstovia Trail. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Once at the top of the tram, there are marked trails and you can go any distance you like. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. The original totem poles that Nice walking trail to the Russian Memorial--a memorial erected in memory of the Russian sailors and Aleuts killed during the 1804 battle. First, you'll need a good pair of waterproof hiking boots. This is Alaskas most visited peak, offering a scenic overlook of Anchorage and Cook Inlet, as well as views of the surrounding Chugach Mountains. A must-do favorite of locals and visitors alike, aptly named Deer Mountain reaches an elevation of 3,000+ feet and is categorized as difficult not only for the incline but for the occasionally treacherous terrain. Get up close to birds of prey at the Alaska Raptor Center. Hiking without a signposted trail can be an intimidating experience to the average city dweller, especially if youre sharing the domain with bears, moose and various other unseen fauna (not to mention mosquitoes). It is wise to reserve your permits ($11.70 per reservation) in advance through Parks Canada if you intend to walk mid-July to mid-August. In the largest state in the nation, plan to go big before you go home. I was highly impressed by the Targhees performance on all counts. In addition, Sitka has worked hard to build an extensive network of hiking trails through the non profit Sitka Trail Works. Ponder the scope of the Grand Canyon, delve into the history of a nation of immigrants at Ellis Island, or wander across architectural grandeur at Golden Gate Bridge. This self-guided, half-mile hike in Juneau lets you get an up-close look at the effects of glaciation. Dogs are welcome! Some are easier and some are harder and Ive included their mileage and elevation gain so you can find the best hike that works for you. Only experienced glacier-travelers should head onto the ice-field proper. Exit Glacier is one of the most popular road-accessible glaciers in Alaska, and its trailhead is just 10-15 minutes north of Seward. The Lower Trail (Kenai Fjords National Park), Lost Lake Trail (Chugach National Forest). If youre a hiker and planning an Alaska cruise, or you just want to find a way to stretch your legs and get away from crowds, this article is for you! Use our calculator to find out, Stay casual, dress in layers, and get proper footwear, View All Southcentral & Interior Towns on a Map, Cruises depart Juneau or Sitka. Its appeal is legendary, and, consequently, more than 3000 people spend three to five days following the historic route between Dyea (Alaska) and Bennett (British Columbia, Canada) every summer. 1.6 miles, Easy. Best hike near Juneau's cruise ship dock Best hike near Ketchikan's cruise ship dock Best hike near Skagway's cruise ship dock Best hike near the Haines cruise ship dock Best hike near the Hoonah/Icy Strait Point cruise ship dock Best hike near Sitka's cruise ship dock What is the best Alaska cruise itinerary for you? It's a quick hike, too: From the parking area and visitor's center, the walk to the glacier takes just about 20 minutes. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 22 min to complete. Its a two- to three-day hike through superb mountain scenery to Girdwood (where it's known as the Crow Pass Trail) and is the regions best backpack adventure. To reach Perseverance Trail, head north out of town on Basin Rd, a dirt road that curves away from the city into the mountains as it follows Gold Creek. 330 Harbor Dr., Sitka AK 99835. Hike Mount Verstovia to Picnic Rock Time needed: half-day I would use two words to describe the hike up to the picnic rock overlook at Mt Verstovia - steep and STUNNING. Originally used by Alaska Natives, the trail, with a mountain goats view of Turnagain Arm, can also be accessed at points along the way: McHugh Creek (Mile 112), Rainbow (Mile 108) and Windy (Mile 107). It was absolute SERENITY. Want to step into the Alaska wilderness, but not feel like youre completely on your own? A special "hikers train" using the historicWhite Pass & Yukon Route Railroadleaves Lake Bennett for Skagway four times a week (3:15pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and 2:15pm on Saturday). The route follows the path of the Indian River, which carves its way through a lush Alaskan rainforest, which is as wild and untamed as you can imagine. Walk up to a glacier at Exit Glacier Trail. Which one is right for you? There will almost always be someone on the trail with you; in fact, if you drive, you may have to wait a while to find a parking spot. I lived in Skagway for three seasons so Im recommending two! According to AllTrails.com, there is 1 camping trail in Sitka National Historical Park which is Starrigavan Estuary Trail with an average 4.6 star rating from 15 community reviews. The bridge crossing over Ward Creek is perhaps the most awe-inspiring stop, providing endless Instagram stunners for envious admirers back home. ), Popular Alaska Itineraries Using In-State Airlines, Anchorage to Denali National Park Driving Map, Denali National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks, Trail of Time at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center, take the proper precautions and be bear aware. Discover the optimal month due to daylight, temperature, and rain. I couldn't see the lower lake. Resurrection River Cabinis 7 miles from the trailhead and cannot be reserved. We chose Sitka because two of my college roommates (who I was well overdue for a visit with) live there and it was a perfect beginning to our Alaskan adventure. Cordovas most popular trail as it incorporates multiple ecosystems and is only 5 miles from town is this fairly easy 3.7-mile (one-way) route beginning by a bridge near the end of the Whitshed Rd. The big ships generally dock a bit out of town and offer a free shuttle into town every 15 minutes. This well-developed trail is one of the most popular hikes near the Denali Park Entrance. This small island city did not disappoint. Why Alaska's stunning coast is best seen by ferry, How and where to see the northern lights in 2022, Watch giant brown bears catching salmon on the Katmai bear cam, See Mars disappear behind the moon in a lunar occultation, Where to spot gray whales along along the Pacific coast as migration season gets in full swing, Why this family goes to the most remote spots in the USA for their vacations, Go North: reindeer herding in the Northwest Territories, Fantastic beasts and where to find them: lesser-known wildlife worth watching, See the USA as an outdoor theme park with this colourful map, Cheapest and fastest routes for visiting US national parks, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. This route isn't an easy one, however, as it features more than 3,000 feet of vertical gain over just three miles. The final leg of the journey narrows considerably and can often be muddy and wet as though it intends to make visitors work just a bit harder for views of the magnificent 70-foot waterfall thats just around the corner. Let's get hiking! The National Historic Iditarod Trail is a 24-mile trek used by gold miners and sled-dog teams until 1918 when the Alaska Railroad was finished. wildlife sightings On the trail up to the top of the tram, or once you walk a short distance away from the tram station, youll leave any crowds behind. The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway travels through the mountains around Skagway, Alaska. Lucky Chance Guide Service 87 Boat Tours Climbing Tours By SPeaGib The key to successful backcountry travel is being able to use a compass and read a topographic map. Yesterday morning, we had the most AMAZING sunrise. Im ever-captivated by the secrets she reveals, even over paths Ive walked a thousand times before. Presented below are Tour Companies that offer guided hiking trips and adventures in and near Sitka. Insider tips to pick the best Alaska cruise. Beyond that hike, you can also fish, paddle your canoe, or watch for birds and other wildlife. Add Your Listing! We welcome your input! This article is presented by KEEN Footwear. - Sitka housing costs are 41.3% more expensive than Haines housing costs. that will echo in your memories for years to come. You can hike from downtown up the trail to the top of the tram or you can take the tram and start from there. Parking lot surface: paved. Getting There I couldnt have asked for anything more today Thank you rodsalaskanguideservice for a memorable experience. Thankfully, one travel site. Cruises and land tours are great ways to see Alaska. Angel Rocks features unique geologic pillars formed over millions of years, and the path incorporates varied terrain that can be particularly steep and rocky on the second half. Near mile 14 of Hatcher Pass Rd, a road to Archangel Valley splits off from FishhookWillow Rd and leads to the Reed Lakes trailhead, a wide road. In the beginning, you'll walk through rainforests, but later, you'll leave the woods behind and bask in alpine meadows and pristine lakes. With so many scenic coastlines and mountain tops to explore, it's easy to overlook some of Alaska's fantastic river trails, many of which have plenty to offer adventurous hikers too. Our first stop is Sitka, Alaska. Our policy is here: https://www.ordinary-adventures.com/privacy-policy/, Low Key Outdoor Adventure for Everyone in North America's Top Left. It was once though that they were buried at the site of the memorial, but a careful inspection of the area found no evidence of graves. Hiking in Alaska requires multi-tasking superhero shoes that can traverse myriad terrain, endure brutal conditions, stay dry, and also, very importantly, be lightweight. The park's runner-up is Totem Trail , which will get you 24 m of elevation gain. You can access the trailhead about eight miles north of Ketchikan. Maps & Guides Start Now. Along the way, you'll discover open tundra, rainforests, mountain views, and so much more. Preview trail Dogs on leash Kid friendly Hiking Bird watching Running Forest Lake Views Waterfall Description Fun hike along creeks and waterfalls. If you prefer to hike the entire way, youll start from the steep hill downtown (called Star Hill) and climb about 1500 feet in two miles to reach the top of the tram. Looking for a more strenuous hike? This 11-mile coastal trail offers a slice of wilderness at the edge of Anchorage. Alaska is a land best experienced by doing. From the balmy shores of the BVI to the storied streets of Talinn, height-defying respites in the Alps, to private island safaris in Tanzania, Adryn embraces the quintessential life of the bon vivant adventurer. The hike is 1.5 miles one way, with a total elevation gain of 1,350 feet. 5 minutes after arriving at upper Reed Lake the clouds parted. And those same natural features continue to draw hikers from all over the world who want to experience Alaska up close and personal, one mile at a time. 6. This 5-mile loop starts at the end of Monashka Bay Rd and branches into several trails near Termination Point, a spectacular peninsula that juts out into Narrow Strait. 4. The hike goes about 4.5 miles to a waterfall and slowly gains 1000 feet of elevation. Still, it will test your legs along the way, but offer some great views and have you back to the car in time for lunch.
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