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Can you Drive to Sitka Alaska?

It is not possible to drive to the city of Sitka, Alaska, as it’s located on the remote Baranof Island in Alaska’s Inside Passage. The island is far from the mainland and covered in heavy impenetrable forest. These insurmountable geographical features mean no road connections exist between the island and the Alaskan mainland. The absence of bridges or tunnels between Sitka and the mainland means the city is only accessible by either sea or air.

Reaching Sitka isn’t as difficult as it may seem. The city is well served by both the Alaska Marine Highway Service and domestic flight services via Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport. For many visitors, the city’s remote location and the region’s unspoiled landscape are the biggest reasons to visit. 

Where is Sitka Located in Alaska?

Sitka is located on the western coast of Baranof Island in the Alexander Archipelago of Alaska. It is situated in the southeastern part of the state. Specifically, Sitka is positioned on the outer coast of the Inside Passage, a scenic marine route stretching along the southeastern coast of Alaska. The Tongass National Forest surrounds Sitka and offers beautiful views of mountains, forests, and the Pacific Ocean.

How to get to Sitka Alaska

Sitka is another of Alaska’s remote coastal communities, so traveling there often involves plenty of time and cost. However, several different travel options are available to you, which are detailed below. 

Land

Sitka’s remote coastal location on Baranof Island in Alaska’s Inside Passage makes it inaccessible by road. While local roads connect the various parts of the city and local communities, there are no road connections with the mainland. The heavily forested interior of Baranof Island makes the island impenetrable by vehicle. Therefore, the only way to reach the island is by air or sea. 

Sea

There are a couple of different ways to reach Sitka by sea. The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) is the cheapest and most convenient way. It operates ferries that connect Sitka with other coastal towns and cities in southeast Alaska. Sitka is one of the major ports of call along the marine highway, so ferry services are fairly regular. Sitka is served by the AMHS Inside Passage route, which connects Sitka with other popular destinations such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Wrangell.

The ferries that service Sitka can carry passengers and vehicles, so taking your vehicle to Sitka is possible. It’s worth noting that the AMHS ferry schedules and sailing frequency vary throughout the year, so check ahead of time and try to book early. Despite the cold winter conditions, there are year-round sailings to Sitka.

An alternative to using the AMHS is to sail to Sitka by private boats or cruise ships. Sitka is a popular port of call for many cruises and typically forms part of a larger Alaskan cruise. The city’s large dock accommodates small sailing vessels and cruise ships alike. 

Air

Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport serves the city of Sitka and lies just west of the city on Japonski Island. The airport offers scheduled and charter flight services to other destinations throughout Alaska. Alaska Airlines is the primary carrier providing services to Sitka, with multiple daily flights connecting Sitka to major cities, such as Anchorage, Ketchikan, and Juneau.

Direct flights from Anchorage to Sitka typically take around 2 hours, while flights from Juneau to Sitka usually have a shorter duration of around 45 minutes. The flight to Ketchikan typically takes 50 minutes. 

During the peak summer months, there is a wider selection of flights. However, these flights tend to get booked up well in advance. Flight availability is generally better during winter, although adverse weather conditions can impact flights.

Aerial view of the city of Sitka in Alaska
Sitka occupies a spectacular setting on the outer coast of Alaska's Inside Passage.

Best Things to see and do in Sitka Alaska

Sitka is a unique destination that offers a good combination of attractions. These include some local historical sites and plenty of outdoor and wilderness activities. The following activities are ten of the best things to do in Sitka. 

Visit Sitka National Historical Park

Sitka National Historical Park, or Totem Park, is a must-visit attraction. It showcases a collection of intricately carved totem poles, representing the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit people. You can stroll along the park’s beautiful coastal rainforest trails or explore the visitor center to learn about the history and significance of the totem poles.

Explore the Alaska Raptor Center

The Alaska Raptor Center is a wildlife rehabilitation facility dedicated to caring for and rehabilitating injured birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, and owls. Visiting the center allows you to observe these magnificent birds up close, learn about conservation efforts and even witness live bird presentations.

St. Michael's Cathedral

St. Michael’s Cathedral is a striking Russian Orthodox church that is a testament to Sitka’s Russian heritage. The cathedral’s awe-inspiring architecture, with its onion domes and vibrant colors, makes it one of the city’s most notable buildings. It’s possible to go inside the cathedral, see the beautiful religious icons, and experience the serene atmosphere.

Fortress of the Bear

This unique wildlife sanctuary provides a home for orphaned and rescued bears. The sanctuary offers the opportunity to observe bears in a natural setting while allowing visitors to learn about their behavior and conservation efforts. The sanctuary offers highly informative tours, allowing you to gain a much deeper understanding of these impressive animals and the challenges they face.

Sitka Sound Science Center

The Sitka Sound Science Center is an excellent educational facility focused on the marine life and ecosystems of the region. You can explore interactive exhibits and aquariums showcasing the diverse marine species in Sitka’s waters. The center also offers guided tours and educational programs, providing valuable insights into the local environment.

Sitka Historical Museum

You can immerse yourself in Sitka’s history by visiting the Sitka Historical Museum. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits that chronicle the area’s Native American heritage, the Russian colonial era, and the modern development of Sitka. It’s a great place to learn about the significant events, cultures, and industries that have shaped the city.

Embark on a Whale Watching and Wildlife Tour

Sitka offers fantastic opportunities for whale watching and wildlife spotting. Popular local boat tours venture into the waters surrounding the area, rich with marine life. If you’re lucky, you can encounter majestic humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, seals, and a variety of seabirds. The local guides are renowned for their knowledge and provide fascinating insights into the behaviors and habitats of these remarkable creatures.

Explore Sitka's Trails and Outdoor Activities

Sitka’s natural surroundings provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Many hike along scenic trails such as the Harbor Mountain Trail or Indian River Trail. Both trails offer breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and coastline. There are also plenty of opportunities to go fishing or kayaking, while wildlife photography is an increasingly popular activity. 

Visit the Russian Bishop's House

The Russian Bishop’s House is a well-preserved historical building that offers a glimpse into Sitka’s Russian colonial past. The museum showcases artifacts, furnishings, and exhibits that depict the lifestyle and cultural influence of the Russian presence in Sitka during the 19th century. You can explore the house independently, but we’d recommend the guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this architectural gem.

Indulge in Local Cuisine and Seafood

Sitka is renowned for its delicious seafood, and no visit to the area would be complete without sampling the local culinary delights. Some highlights include fresh Alaskan salmon, halibut, Dungeness crab, and other seafood specialties. There’s a good range of restaurants in the city, and they all pride themselves on serving locally sourced ingredients. 

Sitka by Season

Like much of Alaska, the experience of visiting Sitka can vary dramatically by season. Our summaries below give you a flavor of what to expect each season.  

Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Sitka, with mild temperatures ranging from the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10 to 20 degrees Celsius). This season offers longer daylight hours, lush green landscapes, and a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy fishing, wildlife tours, hiking, and cultural events. However, summer also brings more visitors and higher accommodation prices, so booking in advance is recommended.

Fall (September to November): Fall in Sitka is characterized by colorful foliage and fewer crowds than summer. The temperatures begin to cool, ranging from the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (4 to 15 degrees Celsius). It’s a great time for wildlife enthusiasts, as salmon runs attract eagles, bears, and other wildlife to the region. Fall is also the start of the rainy season, so be prepared for occasional showers.

Winter (December to February): Winter in Sitka is mild compared to many other parts of Alaska, with temperatures ranging from the 30s to 40s Fahrenheit (-1 to 4 degrees Celsius). Sitka experiences more rainfall in winter, and while snowfall is possible, it is not common. Winter offers a serene atmosphere and a chance to witness Sitka’s dramatic coastal scenery. It’s a quieter time with fewer tourists, with indoor activities like visiting museums and exploring the town’s historical sites coming to the fore.

Spring (March to May): Spring in Sitka brings milder temperatures, ranging from the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (4 to 15 degrees Celsius), and increasing daylight hours. The town begins to awaken from winter, and you can witness the vibrant renewal of nature, including blooming wildflowers. Spring is a great time for birdwatching as migratory birds return to the area. However, be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures during the earlier part of the season.

Best Time to Visit Sitka Alaska

Sitka, Alaska, offers a range of experiences throughout the year, but we think the best time to visit is during the summer months of June to August. The summer months provide the most favorable weather conditions and the warmest time of the year. You’ll also benefit from extended daylight hours. As the sun sets late in the evening, you’ll have ample time to soak in the area’s natural beauty, go hiking along scenic trails, participate in water-based adventures, or simply bask in the picturesque surroundings.

Wildlife enthusiasts will find summer a prime time to observe Sitka’s abundant wildlife. Humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, seals, and various seabirds can be spotted in the coastal waters. Sitka also comes alive with festivals and events during the summer months. The Sitka Summer Music Festival and Sitka Fine Arts Camp performances, among others, provide a vibrant atmosphere and a chance to immerse oneself in the city’s artistic side.

While summer is the best time to visit, it’s also peak tourist season in Sitka. Therefore, planning and booking accommodations and activities in advance is important due to the higher demand. It also means that accommodation and flight prices are likely higher than at other times of the year. However, we think this is a reasonable trade-off, given the amazing conditions during the summer months.

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