The Park is located in the southeastern panhandle region on Baranof Island. To the west of the island is the Alexander Archipelago, and to the east is the Chatham Strait. Commercial airlines operate from Anchorage, Juneau, and Seattle. Sitka is a port of call for cruise ships and ferries of the Alaska Marine Highway System.
WHEN TO VISIT
Open year round, except for holidays. August is the peak visitor month. Climate: January, -8 to 32 degrees F; July, 48 to 63 degrees F. Precipitation: January, 5.1; July, 4.9; August, 7.7. Summers are frequently rainy; Winter is rainy and snowy.
POINTS OF INTEREST
The site of the 1804 fort and battle that marked the last major Tlingit Indian resistance to Russian colonization is preserved here. Tlingit totem poles and crafts are exhibited. The Russian Bishop's House, built in 1842, is the oldest intact piece of Russian American architecture. Nearby landmarks and interesting sites are Old Sitka, Castle Hill, St. Michael's Cathedral, and museums.
ACTIVITIES
Visitor Center with Handicap Access for audiovisual exhibits, interpretive talks, and craft demonstrations (Native craft demonstrations are performed from June through September); museum/exhibit; NPS guided tour; self-guiding tour/trail; picnic area; hiking; fishing.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Food, supplies, and overnight accommodations are available in Sitka, 1/2 mile away.