Sitka, Alaska is home to a variety of wildlife experiences, from boat rides that showcase scenic wonders to thrilling adventures in the wilderness, all designed to give you the chance to encounter native animals in their natural habitats.
Take a trip to the Fortress of the Bear or pay a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center and witness the incredible rehabilitation efforts for injured wildlife. Whether you choose to kayak through Camp Coogan Bay or embark on a sailing through Sitka Sound, these wildlife excursions promise unforgettable encounters with Alaska's diverse ecosystems and its majestic creatures.
Alaska Bear and Silver Bay Homestead Experience
- Scenic Motor Coach Ride: Delight in a narrated motor coach journey through Sitka, offering breathtaking views of Silver Bay and the rugged coastline, while keeping an eye out for native wildlife along the way.
- Fortress of the Bear Tour: Explore the Fortress of the Bear, a sanctuary dedicated to rehabilitating rescued brown and black bears. Witness these majestic creatures living in a recreated wilderness environment and learn about their rehabilitation process, contributing to wildlife conservation efforts.
- Expedition Boat Sailing: Set sail on an expedition boat excursion along the glacier-carved Silver Bay coastline. Gain insights into the region's diverse wildlife and the crucial role of its natural resources in Alaska's economy.
Alaska Raptor Center and Nature Walk
- Scenic Wildlife Tours: Embark on captivating motorcoach rides through Sitka, soaking in stunning landscapes rich with wildlife, including snow-capped mountains, forested islands and coastal habitats.
- Alaska Raptor Center: Visit the sanctuary dedicated to rehabilitating injured raptors like bald eagles, hawks and owls, witnessing their recovery and learning about wildlife conservation efforts.
- Sitka National Historical Park: Explore coastal trails amidst lush forests, encountering totem poles and diverse wildlife while uncovering the area's indigenous history and ecosystem.
- St. Michael’s Cathedral: Discover Sitka's cultural heritage at the historic cathedral, situated along the harbor's shoreline, offering insights into the region's wildlife and history.
- Explore Sitka: After the tour, enjoy the option to further explore Sitka's wildlife habitats, natural wonders and local community.
4x4 Wilderness Adventure
- Scenic Boat Ride: Cruise through Sitka Sound, admiring coastal vistas and keeping an eye out for humpback whales, sea otters and bald eagles.
- Off-Road Adventure: Drive a Polaris Ranger through Tongass National Forest on Kruzof Island, exploring rugged trails and possibly spotting Alaskan brown bears and Sitka black-tail deer.
- Wildlife Sightings: Encounter diverse wildlife amidst the untamed backwoods of Alaska, from majestic humpback whales to elusive bald eagles.
- Nature Exploration: Explore Iris Meadows estuary for colorful wildflowers and immerse yourself in the beauty of the old-growth forest.
Wilderness Sea Kayaking Adventure
- RIB Boat Ride: Experience high-speed thrills aboard a Seahawk rigid inflatable vessel, crossing open waters surrounded by evergreen forests and snow-capped mountains.
- Kayak Voyage: Embark on a 90-minute kayak journey through Camp Coogan Bay, a secluded cove known for its pristine waters and abundant wildlife.
- Wildlife Observation: Keep your eyes peeled for native Alaskan wildlife such as bald eagles, sea otters and bears as you paddle through the diverse ecosystems of Camp Coogan Bay.
Discover Fortress of the Bear
- Scenic Drive to Fortress of the Bear: Enjoy a picturesque coastal drive to the Fortress of the Bear, located against the backdrop of Tongass National Forest.
- Meet Experienced Naturalists: Learn from knowledgeable naturalist guides about the history of the resident bears and their daily lives upon arrival at the center.
- Close Encounters with Bears: Observe black and brown bears up close in their natural habitat from the safety of a covered, elevated viewing platform or through indoor balcony and ground-level windows.
Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears
- Wildlife Cruise: Embark on a three-hour boat ride through Sitka Sound with a naturalist guide, spotting whales, sea otters and more.
- Raptor Center Tour: Visit the Alaska Raptor Center to see injured birds of prey being rehabilitated for release into the wild.
- Bear Observation: Experience a 30-minute observation of Alaskan brown bears at the Fortress of the Bear facility.
