Sitka Scenic Private Tour — Totems, Brown Bears and Silver Bay Fjord
Explore Sitka in two hours: cedar totems, rescued brown bears, and a glacier-carved fjord. This private small-group tour pairs local storytelling with easy walks and scenic stops ideal for first-time visitors.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Weather in Sitka shifts quickly; bring a breathable base, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell.
Bring waterproof footwear
Boardwalks and fjord viewpoints can be wet and muddy—sturdy, waterproof shoes improve comfort and grip.
Carry binoculars or a short telephoto
A compact 200–300mm lens or 8x binoculars helps with bear viewing and fjord details from safe distances.
Allow extra tender time
If arriving by ship, factor in at least 45–60 minutes for shuttle or tender procedures to make the meeting at Harrigan Centennial Hall.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small interpretive trail at the Sitka National Historical Park for quiet shore views
- •Scenic pullout above Silver Bay for unobstructed fjord panoramas and birdwatching
Wildlife
- •Brown bear
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Local guides emphasize ethical wildlife viewing and support centers like Fortress of the Bears; visitors are asked to stay on trails and avoid feeding wildlife to protect fragile ecosystems.
Sitka was the capital of Russian America in the 19th century and remains a place where Tlingit culture and Russian colonial history overlap in place names, totems, and architecture.
Photographer's Notes
- • Sitka National Historical Park boardwalk
- • Fortress of the Bears viewing area
- • Silver Bay scenic pullout
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Rain and wind are common; a breathable waterproof keeps you comfortable at the fjord and on the shore.
Sturdy waterproof shoesEssential
Protects feet on wet boardwalks and gravel paths around the park and viewpoints.
Binoculars or 200–300mm lens
Improves wildlife viewing and frames distant fjord scenery without disturbing animals.
Insulating mid-layerEssential
A fleece or light down helps with cool coastal winds, especially in spring and fall.
Common Questions
Where do we meet for the tour?
All tours meet at Harrigan Centennial Hall, 330 Harbor Drive, downtown Sitka; look for guides in bright blue jackets and yellow signs.
How long is the tour and how much walking is involved?
The tour lasts about two hours and includes roughly 0.5–1 mile of easy walking on boardwalks and gravel paths with minimal elevation gain.
Will I definitely see bears and wildlife?
Wildlife sightings are likely but not guaranteed; Fortress of the Bears houses resident brown bears you can view reliably, while wild sightings depend on season and animal movement.
Is the tour suitable for children and strollers?
Yes, infants and small children can use strollers on most sections; the operator also provides infant seats and notes stroller-accessible paths.
What should I wear for the tour?
Layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes are recommended; bring a hat and gloves in cooler months.
How do I get from my cruise ship to the meeting point?
Use the free downtown shuttle or tender to shore; allow at least 45–60 minutes for shuttle transfers and walking to Harrigan Centennial Hall.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Sitka, Alaska
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Light to moderate: mostly short walks and standing; no steep climbs but some uneven surfaces.
Ready to Explore Sitka?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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