• 5.5 Miles (one way)
• 4 Hours (one way)
• Begins at pump house and dam at end of Indian River Road.
• Ends at base of Indian River falls
• Elevation Gain: 700 feet
• Recommended Season: Year Round
• Level of Difficulty: Easy.  Climbs gradually.  Easy to find, clear, in fair condition.  Some muddy spots.  Bears may be present.

Access

The trailhead is within walking distance of downtown Sitka.  Follow Sawmill Creek Road to Indian River Road, then a short distance to the Indian River Trailhead and parking lot.  No vehicles are allowed past this point.  Walk around the gate and follow the road about a half mile to its end at the pump house.  Indian River trail begins west of the pump house.

Special Features

Vistas of the Sisters Mountains & Indian River Falls.  A relaxing walk through northwest coast rainforest (Old growth Sitka spruce, western hemlock and yellow cedar).

Description

The trail follows Indian River up a wide valley.  It meanders through the forest across gentle terrain.  About a half mile from the trailhead, it skirts a muskeg.  The views of the surrounding mountains from this muskeg are magnificent.  Along the trail there are numerous places well suited to picnics.  Birds and animals are common in the forest along the river.  During late summer and early fall, salmon are plentiful in the river.  However, salmon fishing is prohibited.  Deer are sighted frequently, and often one can find bear paw prints in the trail.  The elevation gain of 700 feet is very gradual, making this an easy trail.