Sitka National Historical Park - Sitka, Alaska

Martin C.

Very nice area to walk through, including a temperate rain forest which includes many historical totem poles. There's a small, very interesting museum focusing on the history of the native people of the area. It is a U.S. national park and admission to the park and museum are free.

JJ L. T. &. C.

Pleasantly surprised by the serene beauty of Sitka National Historical Park in Alaska!
I absolutely loved the lush green rainforest, towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees, and the peaceful Indian River winding through it all — such a tranquil escape into nature!

The Totem Trail and Russian Memorial Loop offer easy, scenic walks through the forest, featuring 18 totem poles and a footbridge over the river.

We weren’t able to explore further because of the “active bear” warning signs all over😳😬

Highly recommend for anyone seeking a peaceful nature experience👍👍👍

Aplih A.

Sitka National Historical Park is a captivating destination that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the rich cultural history of Alaska. It is home to an array of well-preserved Tlingit Native Alaskan totem poles, providing a striking visual representation of indigenous art and heritage.

The park's main attractions include the Totem Trail, a peaceful, forested path that winds along the water’s edge, where you can view these towering totem poles up close.

The trail is both informative and scenic, offering insights into Tlingit culture and history through interpretive signs.

For history buffs and nature lovers alike, Sitka National Historical Park is an excellent spot to learn about the blending of native and Russian influences in Alaska's past. They also have guided tours to take you through the whole history.

Lynds

The park is great with amazing totem poles. It was so much fun to learn the stories behind them and see such a high quantity of beautiful poles. The walk through the forest is also gorgeous.

Jazmin N.

This stunning park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and art lovers alike. The lush, expansive landscape is filled with towering trees, offering shade and a serene environment for visitors. The air is fresh, filled with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, creating a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Wildlife thrives here, and the park is particularly known for its population of majestic bald eagles. These powerful birds can often be seen soaring above or perched high in the trees, their keen eyes scanning the ground below. The park's diverse ecosystem also supports a variety of other animals, making it a great spot for wildlife observation.

What truly sets this park apart is its rich display of Indigenous art. Throughout the park, you'll find intricately carved totems that stand as silent storytellers of the region’s Indigenous heritage. Each totem pole tells a story, representing the history, culture, and beliefs of the Indigenous peoples who have lived in the area for centuries. The craftsmanship is breathtaking, with each totem boasting vivid colors and detailed carvings that draw you in and invite contemplation.

As you walk through the park, you'll encounter scenic trails that wind through the trees, leading you to secluded spots where you can sit and reflect, surrounded by the beauty of nature and art. Whether you're here for a leisurely stroll, to admire the wildlife, or to connect with the cultural significance of the totems, this park offers a deeply enriching experience.

Illya W.

Walking through Sitka National Historical Park is like experiencing the perfect blend of history and nature. The trails are peaceful, surrounded by towering trees and traditional totem poles that tell the stories of the Tlingit people. As you walk along the coast, you can almost feel the weight of history in the air. And then there’s the wildlife—on the trail leaving the park, we were lucky enough to witness tens of thousands of salmon spawning. It was a breathtaking sight, one of those rare moments where nature and culture seamlessly intertwine. This park is a must-visit for anyone who wants to appreciate both the history and natural beauty of Sitka.

Amanda D.

A beautiful place to visit while in Sitka. We walked and while on the way stopped at the pier to watch all the fish jump around. Sea lions also made an appearance to munch on the fish. Upon entering the forest you can see many totem poles. They are nice and colorful and some very tall. The trees are also very beautiful. We even saw a bald eagle resting in one of the trees by the water. You won’t be disappointed visiting here.

Stephen B.

A wonderful accessible historic National Park worth a visit if you find yourself in Sitka. A short dozen different totem poles decorate the waterside end of the park. The trails are gentle and smooth. Don't miss the creek on the farside where salmon return to their point of origin, spawn the next generation and die, feeding the plentiful eagles and other birds!
The displays are great and no cost. If you are short on time visit the Totem build display to see several examples of totems and preparation.