Alaska Raptor Center

Start your easy hike from Crescent Harbor and follow the paved Sitka Sea Walk, enjoying views of Sitka Sound and Mount Edgecumbe. This gentle route covers 2.2 miles (3.5 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 101 feet (31 metres), making it suitable for all. You'll soon enter the lush Tongass National Forest, where the path winds past more than 20 intricately carved Tlingit and Haida totem poles. The entire walk takes about 54 minutes, offering a pleasant exploration of Sitka's natural and cultural highlights. Keep an eye out for salmon in the Indian River as you approach the Alaska Raptor Center.

You can easily begin this accessible walking tour near Crescent Harbor, where parking is generally available. The trail features paved and well-maintained gravel paths, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities. No special permits or fees are required to enjoy the route itself. However, if you plan to visit the Alaska Raptor Center at the end of your walk, be aware that it has its own admission cost. This makes the route a straightforward option for a casual outing in Sitka.

This route provides a unique blend of Sitka's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It guides you through the serene Sitka National Historical Park, showcasing the impressive collection of Tlingit and Haida totem poles within the Tongass National Forest. The journey culminates at the Alaska Raptor Center, offering an opportunity to learn about and observe birds of prey. This walk is an excellent way to experience Sitka's coastal environment and historical significance.