Sitka Scenic Tour

Let’s explore the captivating Sitka Scenic Tour together. This 2-hour adventure takes us through the picturesque Alaskan town, immersing us in Tlingit and Haida culture while showcasing notable landmarks. We’ll visit the Fortress of the Bear, observe orphaned bear cubs, and discover the beauty of Sitka National Historical Park. Comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable local guide ensure a personalized experience. What more can we expect from this tour that promises to leave a lasting impression?

Key Points

• This 2-hour small-group tour showcases Sitka’s top landmarks, including the O’Connell Bridge, Sheldon Jackson Museum, and St. Michael’s Cathedral.
• The tour visits the Fortress of the Bear, where visitors can observe orphaned bear cubs in a naturalized setting.
• Guests explore the Sitka National Historical Park, featuring Tlingit and Haida totem poles and a scenic walk along the Indian River.
• The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned van with a local guide, providing comfort and convenience.
• The tour is stroller accessible but not wheelchair friendly, and offers complimentary cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.

Tour Overview

The Sitka Scenic Tour is a comprehensive 2-hour excursion that showcases the natural beauty and rich history of Sitka, Alaska.

This small-group tour, limited to just 10 people, departs from the Harrigan Centennial Hall and takes visitors on a journey through the town’s notable landmarks.

Highlights include the O’Connell Bridge to Japonski Island, the Sheldon Jackson Museum, the Alaska Pioneer Home, and the iconic St. Michael’s Cathedral.

Guests will also visit the Fortress of the Bear, the largest bear reserve in North America, and the Sitka National Historical Park, home to impressive Tlingit and Haida totem poles.

Itinerary Highlights

Sitka Scenic Tour’s itinerary highlights a diverse array of iconic sights and engaging activities.

We’ll cross the O’Connell Bridge to Japonski Island, explore the Sheldon Jackson Museum, and visit the historic Alaska Pioneer Home.

At the renowned St. Michael’s Cathedral, we’ll learn about Sitka’s Russian heritage.

Next, we’ll witness the Fortress of the Bear, North America’s largest bear reserve.

In Sitka National Historical Park, we’ll immerse ourselves in Tlingit and Haida culture while admiring the totem poles and taking a peaceful stroll along the Indian River.

Throughout, our knowledgeable guide will provide insightful commentary on the local history and wildlife.

Visiting the Fortress of the Bear

One of the highlights of the Sitka Scenic Tour is the Fortress of the Bear, North America’s largest bear reserve.

We’ll have the opportunity to meet orphaned bear cubs in a naturalized setting and view the bears from a safe distance of 25 feet. This is a chance to learn about the bears’ stories and see them up close in their habitat.

The Fortress offers an informative and responsible way to observe these magnificent creatures while supporting their rehabilitation and care.

We’ll come away with a newfound appreciation for the bears and the important work being done to protect them.

Exploring Sitka National Historical Park

After exploring the Fortress of the Bear, we’ll move on to discover the natural wonders of Sitka National Historical Park.

This 113-acre park is home to an impressive collection of Tlingit and Haida totem poles. As we walk along the Indian River, we’ll be on the lookout for:

• Bald eagles soaring overhead
• Salmon spawning in the river
• Lush forest trails perfect for hiking
• Opportunities to learn about indigenous culture

The park’s tranquil setting provides a peaceful contrast to the bear reserve, allowing us to immerse ourselves in Sitka’s natural beauty and rich history.

Witnessing Wildlife and Nature

What wildlife and natural wonders can we expect to witness on this tour? The crown jewel is the Fortress of the Bear, the largest bear reserve in North America. Here, we’ll see orphaned bear cubs in a naturalized setting, observing them from a safe distance of 25 feet.

Beyond the bears, we may spot bald eagles soaring overhead and salmon swimming upstream in the Indian River. Though wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the natural beauty of Sitka National Historical Park, with its Tlingit and Haida totem poles and peaceful forest trails, is sure to captivate.

This tour offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with Sitka’s rich wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Transportation and Comfort

To ensure your comfort throughout the tour, we’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned van with a local guide. This means you can enjoy the scenic drive without worrying about the weather. The van is equipped with a heater, allowing you to stay cozy even in cooler conditions.

Our tour features:

• Dress in layers for your comfort
• Stroller accessible, though not wheelchair friendly
• Complimentary cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
• Knowledgeable guides who provide informative commentary

With these amenities, you can focus on absorbing the stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings during your Sitka Scenic Tour.

Accessibility and Cancellation Policy

Our Sitka Scenic Tour is not wheelchair accessible, though it is stroller-friendly.

Accessibility	Sitka Scenic Tour
Wheelchair	Not Accessible
Stroller	Accessible
Prams	Accessible

For your convenience, we offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour begins. This ensures you can plan your schedule with confidence. Should you need to cancel, simply notify us, and we’ll process your refund promptly. Our policies prioritize your satisfaction and flexibility.

Customer Feedback

Guests have overwhelmingly praised the Sitka Scenic Tour, with many highlighting the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and informative nature of the experience.

Common highlights cited by reviewers include:

• The captivating Fortress of the Bear, where they could view rescued bear cubs in a naturalized setting
• The opportunity to witness the salmon life cycle during a peaceful walk along the Indian River
• The overall organization and smooth flow of the tour
• The stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings, such as bald eagles, that were encountered throughout the journey.

While some guests desired more time at specific locations, the Sitka Scenic Tour has received an impressive 4.5-star rating across 57 reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Unfortunately, according to the tour overview, pets are not mentioned as being allowed on the Sitka Scenic Tour. We’d recommend checking with the tour operator if you plan to bring a pet, as their policies may vary.

Is the Tour Available Year-Round?

The tour is available year-round, though seasonal factors may impact specific activities and wildlife sightings. We recommend checking the tour operator’s website or contacting them directly for the most up-to-date information on tour availability.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, we’re allowed to bring our own food and drinks on the tour. The van has a cooler storage space for your convenience, so you can enjoy snacks and beverages during the scenic drive.

How Much Walking Is Required During the Tour?

The tour involves some light walking, though the exact amount can vary. We recommend bringing comfortable shoes as we’ll explore nature trails and historical sites on foot. The tour is designed to be accessible for most guests.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

We do not see any information about discounts for children or seniors on the Sitka Scenic Tour. The price appears to be a flat rate of $89.00 per person for the 2-hour tour.

The Sum Up

The Sitka Scenic Tour offers a comprehensive and captivating exploration of Sitka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From witnessing orphaned bear cubs to immersing ourselves in Tlingit and Haida traditions, this small-group tour provides a personalized and comfortable experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking to discover the charm of this Alaskan town, the Sitka Scenic Tour is a must-do activity that won’t disappoint.