MOUNTAIN HIKES
Sitka ’ s mountains offer picturesque trails that range from easy to challenging alpine hikes , and visitors can share the trails with abundant wildlife year-round . For an easier trek , Sitka ’ s Cross Trail is almost 7 miles of wide , accessible , gravel-paved trail perfect for yearround walking and biking . This trail extends between downtown Sitka and the cruise ship terminal area .
The Gavan Hill-Harbor Mountain Trail is about 6 miles one way and leads climbers through muskeg and vegetation , resulting in panoramic views of Sitka and its neighboring islands . One of Sitka ’ s most challenging hikes is Mount Verstovia Trail . About 2.5 miles one way to the summit , its steep path shows off the resiliency of Sitka ’ s trees sprinkled throughout rocky terrain toward the peak .
Sitka ’ s most unique trail is the Mt . Edgecumbe Trail , a 13.4 mile round-trip hike with a 3,200-foot elevation gain up the side of Sitka ’ s dormant volcano . This trail is only accessible by boat , so be sure to plan ahead for transportation and weather . Though the climbs can be rigorous , the views atop Sitka ’ s mountains make the journey well worth it .
Find Balance
Here , Sitka ’ s outdoors serve as one of the town ’ s greatest teachers . The mountains , forests , wildlife , and ocean work together , creating a well-balanced ecosystem that calls to be explored .
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