Historic Sitka Nature Walk

Your tour begins with a transfer to the Alaska Raptor Center, where you’ll encounter the swamp-like muskeg soil and alpine meadow where most of Alaska's bird, plant and wild berries thrive. Then explore and photograph the Raptor Center's open bird habitat and new Eagle Flight Center, home to bald eagles, owls, hawks, and other birds of prey. During your visit, the staff will explain the Raptor Center's mission and answer questions. Next, you’ll proceed for a visit to Sitka National Historical Park, where walking trails lined with authentic totem poles will guide you through the lush Tongass National Forest.

As you cross the bridge at Indian River, you’ll learn about the rain forest’s ecosystem, local plant, and animal life. Afterward, you’ll walk along the harbor's shoreline to visit St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the Russian Bishop's House. St. Michael's Cathedral is always the last stop on the tour. The Russian Bishop's House is a place the tour will pass. However, a visit inside the Bishop's House is not included in the walk. Along the way, you will see many Victorian-style homes and ornate churches before passing Sheldon Jackson College. Your tour will conclude in downtown where you can continue to explore the shops and galleries on your own.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch birds of prey being rehabilitated for possible release into the wild.
• Walk a nature trail lined with hand-crafted totem poles.
• See 16th-century religious icons in a Russian Orthodox Cathedral
• Admire Sitka’s lovely Victorian homes.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in layered weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.