Hiking in Sitka, AlaSKa
If you’re looking to soak up the best of Southeast Alaska, exploring Sitka’s trails is the best way to see the forest up close. There’s a route for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just out for a casual stroll. You’ll get to wander through lush greenery and occasionally catch a glimpse of stunning views or local wildlife.
The Mosquito Cove Loop is a local favorite and great for groups and families, but only stroller and wheelchair friendly in the first quarter mile. If you want to keep your options open, the Sitka Cross Trail is a backbone of the trail system, connecting to neighborhoods and spur trails, letting you choose your own adventure as you go. Check out our Trail List or Visit Sitka’s hiking guide to choose the right difficulty for your group.
Here’s some ways to stay safe and enjoy hiking in Sitka:
- Make a plan, pack the essentials, and prepare for risks. Review this guide for best practices in outdoor safety.
- New to hiking? Check out this introduction from our friends at Washington Trails Association.
- Check out the FAQ’s below for more information
For walks on the Cross Trail, which is a smooth gravel surface, a comfortable walking shoe is fine. If you’re hiking a trail with elevation gain and therefore a lot of steps, like Gavan or Verstovia, or carrying a lot of weight, we recommend a boot with some ankle support.
Because it’s so wet, many locals prefer to hike in the classic “Sitka Sneaker,” fully waterproof rubber boots made by Xtratuf, but lack of ankle support is a downside.
Hydration is important! For a day hike, carry at least 0.5 liters (about 16 oz) of water per hour of moderate activity, so plan for 2-3 liters (68-100 oz) for a half-day (4-6 hour) hike.
While our local streams might look clear and refreshing, we recommend treating all water before drinking due to the risk of giardia.
- Dogs are allowed on all of Sitka’s trails, but leash laws vary depending on location and land manager.
- Leashes are required at
- the Sitka National Historic Park https://www.nps.gov/sitk/planyourvisit/pets.htm
- At the USFS Starrigavan Recreation Area
- In State Parks, like Mosquito Cove and Halibut Point Rec
- On all City lands, except for spaces explicitly allowed as off leash
- General guidelines for leashes: https://sitka.municipal.codes/SGC/8.05.031
- List of off-leash areas, including the Cross Trail: https://sitka.municipal.codes/SGC/8.05.032
- Bikes are only allowed where permitted, which is on wider trails with no steps, designed for multi-use. Those include:
- the Sitka Cross Trail,
- Starrigavan Multi-Use Trails
- Thimbleberry to Heart Lake
- The Sawmill Creek Multi-use Pathway
- Kruzof Mud Bay road system and all other former logging roads
- Note that all these listed trails include curves and steep sections of a moderate difficulty level and are not recommended for beginning bikers.
- Until the Alaska State Legislature passes a clear legal definition of e-bikes, they are by default regulated as bikes, and therefore allowed on all trails where bikes are allowed.
Yes! The entire trail system is open year round, but be aware that you could encounter snow when hiking to the alpine between October and May.
Always packing the “Ten Essentials” (and number eleven for bear country) will help you stay safe and prepared for the outdoors.
Check out this overview for more details on the Essentials.
- To stay safe in bear country, we recommend reading these simple tips from Alaska’s Department of Fish and Game. Most importantly make noise as you hike along the trail and be aware of surroundings. If you do encounter a bear, maintain distance and move away slowly and immediately.
- Bear spray is sold at retailers such as Russell’s or Orion’s Sporting Goods, or can be rented from Yellow Jersey Bicycle Shop or Sitka Alaska Outfitters.
- Don’t be “bearanoid.” Learn the facts about bears and act consciously to avoid encounters – but get out and enjoy our amazing trails!