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Sitka City And Borough

Totem Park Trail

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Sitka City And Borough

Totem Park Trail

Easy

4.8

(4)

hikers

Totem Park Trail

Q: Where is the Totem Park Trail located?

The Totem Park Trail is located within the Sitka National Historical Park in Sitka, Alaska. It offers an easy and scenic hiking experience along the Eastern Channel shoreline and Indian River.

Q: What is the terrain like on the trail?

The trail features a relatively flat and well-maintained crushed gravel path, making it an easy hike. It has minimal elevation gain, suitable for strollers and those seeking a non-strenuous outing through a classic Southeast Alaskan temperate rainforest.

Q: What are the main attractions along the route?

The most significant feature is the impressive collection of historic and contemporary totem poles from various Haida and Tlingit villages that line the path. You'll also find the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center , the Bridge over Indian River (great for salmon viewing), and scenic views of Sitka Sound and Mount Edgecumbe.

Q: When is the best time of year to hike the Totem Park Trail?

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Late summer and early fall (August-October) are ideal for observing pink, chum, and coho salmon during their spawning runs in the Indian River. Spring and early summer bring a wide array of colorful wildflowers to the beach meadows and grass flats.

Q: Is the Totem Park Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park beautiful for everyone.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to hike the trail?

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the Totem Park Trail or Sitka National Historical Park. It is free to enjoy.

Q: Is the trail suitable for families with children?

Absolutely! The trail's easy, flat, and well-maintained surface makes it very family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages. It's also stroller-friendly, offering an engaging outdoor experience with cultural and natural points of interest.

Q: What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

Hikers often spot ravens, eagles, and squirrels. During late summer and early fall, the Indian River is a prime location to watch salmon. The temperate rainforest environment also supports various bird species.

Q: Does the trail connect to other paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Russian Memorial Trail and the Sitka Sea Walk , offering opportunities to extend your exploration of the park.

Q: Is there parking available at the trailhead?

Yes, parking is available at the Sitka National Historical Park Visitor Center, which serves as the primary access point for the Totem Park Trail. The trailhead is easily accessible from the parking area.

01:15

4.94km

10m

Hiking

Explore the Totem Park Trail in Sitka National Historical Park, an easy 3.1-mile hike among historic totem poles and Alaskan rainforest.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Sitka National Historical Park

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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1.02 km

Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center

Highlight • Historical Site

The Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center, which doubles as the visitor center for Sitka National Historical Park, is a can't-miss attraction for visitors. This is your opportunity to watch a …

Tip by

1.12 km

Totem Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Totem Trail winds through the forest behind the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center. The trail itself is wide and easy, with stately totem poles posted at intervals.

You may …

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2.38 km

Bridge over Indian River (a good place to watch salmon in the water)

Highlight • Bridge

Keep an eye out for spawning salmon in the river under the bridge. The runs tend to be strongest in July and August; if you visit far outside that time, …

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2.41 km

Russian Memorial Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The histories of the Russian people, the Aleut people they brought with them, and the Tlingit people indigenous to this land are all inextricably entwined. This trail leads you through …

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3.70 km

Sitka Sea Walk

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Sitka Sea Walk is an easy, paved trail that runs between the harbor/coastline on one side, and mostly green city spaces on the other. Occasionally, the sea walk follows …

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4.94 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

2.48 km

2.29 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

2.28 km

1.47 km

126 m

122 m

< 100 m

Elevation

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Weather

Monday 25 May

14°C

6°C

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Totem Park Trail located?

The Totem Park Trail is located within the Sitka National Historical Park in Sitka, Alaska. It offers an easy and scenic hiking experience along the Eastern Channel shoreline and Indian River.

What is the terrain like on the trail?

The trail features a relatively flat and well-maintained crushed gravel path, making it an easy hike. It has minimal elevation gain, suitable for strollers and those seeking a non-strenuous outing through a classic Southeast Alaskan temperate rainforest.

What are the main attractions along the route?

The most significant feature is the impressive collection of historic and contemporary totem poles from various Haida and Tlingit villages that line the path. You'll also find the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center, the Bridge over Indian River (great for salmon viewing), and scenic views of Sitka Sound and Mount Edgecumbe.

When is the best time of year to hike the Totem Park Trail?

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Late summer and early fall (August-October) are ideal for observing pink, chum, and coho salmon during their spawning runs in the Indian River. Spring and early summer bring a wide array of colorful wildflowers to the beach meadows and grass flats.

Is the Totem Park Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park beautiful for everyone.

Are there any fees or permits required to hike the trail?

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the Totem Park Trail or Sitka National Historical Park. It is free to enjoy.

Is the trail suitable for families with children?

Absolutely! The trail's easy, flat, and well-maintained surface makes it very family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages. It's also stroller-friendly, offering an engaging outdoor experience with cultural and natural points of interest.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

Hikers often spot ravens, eagles, and squirrels. During late summer and early fall, the Indian River is a prime location to watch salmon. The temperate rainforest environment also supports various bird species.

Does the trail connect to other paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Russian Memorial Trail and the Sitka Sea Walk, offering opportunities to extend your exploration of the park.

Is there parking available at the trailhead?

Yes, parking is available at the Sitka National Historical Park Visitor Center, which serves as the primary access point for the Totem Park Trail. The trailhead is easily accessible from the parking area.

Is the Totem Park Trail a loop?

Yes, the Totem Park Trail is a loop trail, allowing you to experience all its features without retracing your steps. It's approximately 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) long.