Best of Sitka Land Tour: Fortress of the Bear, Raptor Center & Totem Trails
A compact, small-group van tour that threads Sitka’s top sights into one efficient outing—totem trails, rescued brown bears, and injured raptors—complete with local stories, admissions, and snacks. Ideal for cruise passengers and day visitors who want a focused introduction to Sitka’s wildlife and cultural history.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers and waterproofs
Weather on the Gulf of Alaska shifts quickly—bring a lightweight rain shell and thermal layers even in summer.
Bring binoculars or a zoom lens
Animals are often at a distance; optics make the Raptor Center and shoreline stops far more rewarding.
Respect viewing rules around wildlife
Do not attempt to approach or feed bears or birds—stick to platforms and follow staff directions at rescue centers.
Plan for short, mostly-flat walks
Totem trails and aviary paths are under a mile each with minimal elevation—comfortable shoes are sufficient.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small coastal pullouts with tidepools—watch for intertidal life at low tide
- •A short detour to the historic Russian Bishop’s House offers quiet exhibits on colonial history
Wildlife
- •Sitka black-tailed deer
- •Bald eagles
Conservation Note
Local centers focus on rehabilitation and release—support comes via admissions and donations; visitors should follow guidelines to minimize disturbance to wildlife and habitats.
Sitka was the center of Russian America after 1799 and remains a place where Tlingit heritage and Russian colonial history intersect visibly in totems and preserved sites.
Photographer's Notes
- • Totem-lined trail near the park visitor center
- • Raised platforms at Fortress of the Bear
- • Coastal pullouts along the drive for wide seascapes
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Keeps you dry and windproof during coastal showers and wind.
BinocularsEssential
Essential for spotting eagles, bears, and distant shorelines.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Comfortable footwear for short trails, boardwalks, and viewing platforms.
Telephoto camera lens or zoom
Helps capture wildlife without disturbing animals from a distance.
Common Questions
Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet downtown at the listed pickup or at the Sitka Sound Cruise Ship Terminal; a complimentary shuttle connects the downtown point with the ship terminal when needed.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes—transportation and site access are wheelchair accessible; contact the operator ahead of time for specific assistance needs.
Are admissions and snacks included?
Yes—admission fees for featured attractions and snacks/water are included in the tour price.
Can cruise passengers make the timing?
The operator coordinates with ship schedules and offers pickup options that work with most cruise disembarkation times—provide arrival details when booking.
Will I see bears and eagles for sure?
Wildlife is never guaranteed, but Fortress of the Bear and the Raptor Center maintain residents and recovering animals, giving high chances of sightings; wild animals along shorelines are seasonal and variable.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if cancelled at least 24 hours before departure; tours may be cancelled due to bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2.5–3 hours
Location
Sitka, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to walk short paved or boardwalk sections and climb a few steps.
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