Bridge over Indian River (a good place to watch salmon in the water)
Bridge over Indian River (a good place to watch salmon in the water)
Highlight • Bridge
Bridge over Indian River (a good place to watch salmon in the water)
Hiking
5.0
(11)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Sitka National Historical Park
Tips
May 6, 2023
Hiking
Any time you see a river full of fish in Alaska, make sure you keep an eye out for bears as well. They can't resist the allure of such a rich, readily available food source.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Bridge over Indian River (a good place to watch salmon in the water)
1
hikers
3.47km
00:55
30m
20m
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.
1
hikers
2.11km
00:34
30m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Totem Trail, a 1.3-mile (2.1 km) route that takes you through a lush Southeast Alaskan temperate rainforest. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of just 94 feet (29 metres), making this a comfortable walk that typically takes around 34 minutes to complete. As you follow the well-maintained path, you will be surrounded by towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees. The trail's most striking feature is its impressive collection of historic and contemporary totem poles, which stand majestically along the route. You can also cross the Bridge over Indian River, where you might spot salmon, especially in late summer and early fall.
This accessible trail is perfect for a quick outdoor experience and is suitable for all skill levels, including families with strollers, thanks to its relatively flat, crushed gravel surface. Parking is generally available directly at Sitka National Historical Park, which serves as the trailhead. Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate details of the totem poles and the surrounding natural beauty. No special permits or fees are required to enjoy this scenic and culturally rich walk.
The Totem Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, showcasing the rich history of the region. Beyond the stunning forest and river views, you might catch glimpses of bald eagles soaring overhead or distant views of Sitka Sound and Mount Edgecumbe. For a deeper understanding of the carvings you encounter, you can visit the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center, located nearby, to learn more about the significance of the totem poles.
1.48km
00:24
20m
20m
Hike the easy 0.9-mile Russian Memorial Loop Trail in Sitka National Historical Park, enjoying rainforest scenery and cultural totem poles.
Details
Informations
Elevation 10 m
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Wednesday 10 June
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Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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