Sitka National Historical Park

Sitka National Historical Park
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Sitka National Historical Park is located in Sitka, Alaska, on the west coast of Baranof Island. The park encompasses 113 acres of land and is situated along the coastline, surrounded by lush forests and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.

The historical background of the park revolves around the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit people. Established in 1910, it was the first national park created to commemorate the clash between Native Alaskans and European explorers. The park preserves the site of a pivotal battle that took place in 1804, known as the Battle of Sitka or the Battle of Indian River. This battle marked the decisive victory of the Tlingit people over the Russian colonizers. The park also showcases a collection of totem poles, which are intricately carved wooden sculptures representing the history and mythology of the Tlingit people.

Visitors to Sitka National Historical Park can engage in various activities to explore its cultural and natural treasures. One of the main attractions is the Totem Trail, a self-guided walking path that winds through the park and showcases over 20 totem poles. Along the trail, visitors can learn about the significance and history of each totem pole through informative signs.

The park's visitor center is another notable point of interest, offering exhibits that provide further insights into the Tlingit culture, traditional arts, and the historical timeline of the region. The visitor center also hosts cultural demonstrations, such as carving and weaving, allowing visitors to witness traditional craftsmanship.

In addition to its historical significance, Sitka National Historical Park boasts diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Nature enthusiasts can explore the park's hiking trails, which lead to scenic viewpoints and provide opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and coastal exploration.

Beyond the park itself, Sitka offers other attractions nearby. The city of Sitka is known for its Russian influence, and visitors can explore the Bishop's House and St. Michael's Cathedral to witness the city's rich history. Outdoor enthusiasts can also venture out to nearby attractions like the Tongass National Forest, where activities such as kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting are popular.

Sitka National Historical Park is a remarkable destination that showcases the cultural heritage of the Tlingit people while providing opportunities for outdoor exploration and appreciation of Alaska's natural beauty.

Location

Sitka National Historical Park is located in the picturesque city of Sitka, which is situated on Baranof Island in southeastern Alaska. Nestled along the rocky shores and dense forests of the Pacific Coast, the park boasts a stunning geographical setting that encompasses approximately 113 acres. Its unique position showcases Sitka's natural splendor, with towering mountains serving as a breathtaking backdrop and the vast ocean stretching out before it. The park's abundant flora and fauna thrive in this coastal region, while its historic landmarks and totem poles offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit people. Sitka National Historical Park's geographical location perfectly captures the awe-inspiring beauty of coastal Alaska, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Address & Contact

106 Metlakatla Street
Sitka, AK 99835
Driving Directions
Phone: 9077470110
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Sitka National Historical Park would be during the months of May, June, and July. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 54°F to 61°F, with minimum temperatures between 39°F and 50°F. The average monthly precipitation is relatively low, ranging from 3.9 to 6.0 inches. Visitors can expect pleasant weather for outdoor activities during these months.

Things to do and learn in Sitka National Historical Park

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Sitka National Historical Park are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Arts and Culture Hiking Fishing Hunting and Gathering Citizen Science Gathering and Foraging Craft Demonstrations

Topics

Learn about these topics at Sitka National Historical Park: Animals Birds Geology Architecture and Building Arts Native American Heritage Fish River and Riparian Trails Colonization and Settlement Explorers and Expeditions Military Religion and Spirituality Churches Women's History Climate Change Forests and Woodlands Mountains Natural Sounds Scenic Views Wars and Conflicts Indigenous and Native Warrior Indian and Frontier Wars World War II Coasts, Islands and Atolls Oceans Reconstruction Commerce Trade Rainforest

Amenities

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center

Explore exhibits about traditional Tlingít life and see drums, robes, and other ceremonial objects. A 12-minute film, "The Voices of Sitka," weaves together the stories of Sitkans, past and present. The nearby Totem Trail displays Northwest Coast totem poles and leads to the site of the Battle of 1804.

Campsites within or near Sitka National Historical Park

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Sitka National Historical Park

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Super 8 by Wyndham Sitka

With a stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Sitka in Sitka, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of St. Michael's Cathedral and Russian-American Building #29. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 404 Sawmill Creek Rd., Halibut Rd. & Sawmill Cr. Rd., Sitka, Alaska 99835
Web: Link

Westmark Sitka

A stay at Westmark Sitka places you in the heart of Sitka, steps from St. Michael's Cathedral and 4 minutes by foot from Sitka Historical Society and Museum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Sitka? This hotel has facilities measuring 1664 square feet (155 square meters), including a conference center. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available 24 hours).
Address: 330 Seward St, Sitka, Alaska 99835
Web: Link

Sitka Hotel and Restaurant

When you a stay at Sitka Hotel and Restaurant in Sitka, you'll be on the Strip, just steps from Sitka Pioneer Home and St. Michael's Cathedral. Featured amenities include a computer station, luggage storage, and laundry facilities. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available on request).
Address: 118 Lincoln St, Sitka, Alaska 99835
Web: Link

Totem Square Hotel & Marina

With a stay at Totem Square Hotel & Marina, you'll be centrally located in Sitka, steps from Sitka Pioneer Home and within a 5-minute walk of St. Michael's Cathedral. Featured amenities include luggage storage, laundry facilities, and a library. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary at scheduled times.
Address: 201 Katlian Street, Sitka, Alaska 99835
Web: Link

Eagle Bay Inn

With a stay at Eagle Bay Inn in Sitka, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Sheldon Jackson Museum and Sitka National Historical Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1321 Sawmill Creek Road, Suite C, Sitka, Alaska 99835
Web: Link

Aspen Suites Hotel Sitka

With a stay at Aspen Suites Hotel Sitka in Sitka, you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Russian-American Building #29 and Sitka Historical Society and Museum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage.
Address: 210 Lake St, Sitka, Alaska 99835
Web: Link

Longliner Lodge and Suites

With a stay at Longliner Lodge and Suites in Sitka, you'll be a 2-minute walk from Sheet'ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Tribal Community House and 8 minutes by foot from Sitka Pioneer Home. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 485 Katlian Street, Sitka, Alaska 99835
Web: Link

News and Alerts

Date issued Details
2024-12-31Feeding Wildlife in the Park
Please do not feed wildlife. More
2024-11-262024 Tlingit Silversmith Lecture
Educational Lecture Examines the Lives of Historic Tlingit Silversmith Jewelers More
2024-11-252024 Winter Hours and Closures
Pit Toilets Closed for the Season; Visitor Center and Russian Bishop House Winter Operations Have Begun More
2023-05-012023 Be Beary Aware at Sitka NHP
Bears are active in the park again. Read the article to learn about the park's 2023 bear management plan. More
2023-03-23Bird Flu Present in the Park Again
The presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed in the park again. More
2023-03-18Spring Operating Hours at Sitka NHP
Summary of spring and summer season hours at the Sitka NHP Visitor Center and the Russian Bishop's House. More