Sitka: Bears, Eagles & Totem Walk Small Group Tour

Summary

Wildlife rescue, totems and forest trails in sitka’s heart

You’ll meet rescued eagles up close at Alaska Raptor Center, watch brown bears roam Fortress of the Bear with local keepers sharing their stories, then wander under ancient spruce among carved totems in Sitka’s oldest park. With pickup downtown and a real Alaskan guide leading you through each stop, this day feels personal—like being let in on Sitka’s secrets.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever seen a bald eagle blink?” our guide, Jamie, asked as she pointed up at this massive bird perched just above us at the Alaska Raptor Center. I hadn’t — honestly, I didn’t even know they blinked like that, slow and deliberate. The air smelled faintly of cedar chips and rain-soaked moss. Jamie’s voice came through her little mic thing so we could all hear her even outside the van (which was surprisingly comfy for a tour van — no weird smells). She grew up here, knew which birds were healing from what, and told us about one old owl who apparently hates men but tolerates women. There’s something about hearing those stories from someone who actually lives here — it sticks more.

Next stop was Fortress of the Bear. I wasn’t sure what to expect — maybe something sad? But it didn’t feel like that. The place is huge, set right against the forest edge. We stood under this covered platform while two brown bears lumbered out, sniffing around for snacks. You could hear them breathing when everything else went quiet for a second — kind of humbling, honestly. One of the keepers explained how they ended up there (some rough starts), but also how much work goes into keeping them healthy and busy. A little girl next to me tried to wave; one bear looked straight at her and snorted. Everyone laughed.

After that we headed to Sitka National Historical Park for what Jamie called “totem therapy.” The trail winds through spruce trees taller than most buildings back home — some of the totem poles are almost as tall too. It was drizzling by then but nobody seemed to care; you could smell the wet earth and salt from the nearby water. Jamie showed us how to spot salmon in the river (they really do jump), and shared a bit about Tlingit carving traditions. I tried repeating one of the Tlingit names after her — pretty sure I butchered it because she grinned and said “close enough.”

By the end I felt sort of…quiet? Not in a bad way though — just full from seeing so much life stitched together: rescued animals, old stories, wet woods. You can take your time walking back along the Sea Walk if you want (I did), or ride back with Jamie into town.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sitka scenic tour and wildlife visits

• Drive south to Silver Bay
• Stop for photos and wildlife viewing
• Visit Fortress of the Bears habitat
• Meet bear rescuers and learn about bears
• Tour Alaska Raptor Center rehabilitation
• See resident eagles, hawks, and owls
• Walk Sitka National Historical Park
• View totem poles and coastal trail
• Observe salmon spawning at Indian River
• Choose to drive back or walk Sea Walk

Top questions

How long is the Sitka scenic tour?

The tour lasts about 2.5 hours from start to finish.

Where does the tour start in Sitka?

All tours begin at Harrigan Centennial Hall, 330 Harbor Drive downtown Sitka.

Is transportation included in this day trip?

Yes, transportation is provided in an air-conditioned Nissan NV van with your group.

Are entry fees for attractions included?

Yes, entry fees for Alaska Raptor Center and Fortress of the Bear are included.

Can I stay longer at Sitka National Historical Park?

You can choose to stay longer after the guided portion ends and walk back along Sea Walk or return with your guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult during the tour.

What wildlife might I see on this tour?

You may see bald eagles, brown bears up close at Fortress of the Bear, possibly whales or sea lions along Silver Bay drive.

Does this small group tour avoid cruise ship crowds?

The departure time is planned to avoid large bus crowds whenever possible for a more private experience.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from downtown Sitka at Harrigan Centennial Hall, comfortable transport in a small group van with an Alaskan guide narrating throughout—even outside thanks to her wireless mic—plus entry fees for both Alaska Raptor Center and Fortress of the Bear before finishing with a guided walk among historic totems or time on your own along Sea Walk back into town.