A Walk Through History
Daily Sitka Sentinel , James Poulson
SITKA IS A TOWN STEEPED in Tlingit , Russian , and American history . From famous landmarks , to historic buildings and awe-inspiring totem pole reproductions , there ’ s something exciting to see on every corner . And , while you can certainly explore Sitka on your own , why not book a tour and learn about history from a local ?
Led by lifelong Sitka Bob Purvis , Taste of Sitka Sea Walk Tours are personalized small group tours that give visitors a firsthand introduction to the historical checkpoints and local merchants around town . Hear about the battles fought on Castle Hill before visiting local stores who offer a variety of products made in town . After the roughly two-hour tour , guests receive a certificate for discounts on products that may have caught their eye along the way .
Emily Purvis ’ s Haunted Sitka Tour offers visitors an outing on the spookier side . Learn about Sitka ’ s ghostly stories as Emily leads you through town in an 1800s period costume . Discover the spine-chilling mysteries of disappearing ships , gold rush pioneers , and Russian explorers from the 1800s – who are rumored to still be glimpsed around town today .
If you ’ re looking to escape the beaten path , join Sitka Tribal Tours on their adventure hikes . Learn about Tlingit history and culture while hiking up a two- to three-mile switchback climb with views of glacier-carved valleys , alpine rock fields , and Sitka Sound . Alternatively , choose an itinerary that follows the island ’ s rocky coastline and offers spectacular views of the ocean and Sitka ’ s lush temperate rainforest .
Sitka on Foot
One of Sitka ’ s favorite pastimes is traveling on foot . Sitkans of all ages and abilities can be found – rain or shine – walking and hiking the extensive trail system across the greater Sitka area . Trail experiences range from easier , ½-mile , ADAaccessible paths to more challenging , multiday backcountry treks . With trails that take you along the coastline , high above the town , and through the ancient trees of the Tongass National Forest , hiking provides a whole new way to experience wild Alaska .
Getting Around Town »
Avis Alaska avisalaska . com / Sitka by the Sea Tours sitkabytheseatours . com / Sitka Trail Works sitkatrailworks . org / Southeast Alaska Independent Living sailinc . org / orcaequipment / Yellow Jersey Cycle Shop yellowjerseycycles . com
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