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Guided Walking Tour in Totem Park: Deep Dive into Sitka's National Historical Park Culture

4.7

40 Ratings

Sitka

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Sitka's National Historical Park on a guided walking tour. Discover the legends of the totem poles, pick edible berries, and learn about the indigenous Tlingit culture. Perfect for history and culture enthusiasts!

Duration: 30 minutes

Cancellation: 1 day learn more

Highlights

Russian Bishop’s House - Here the tour will dive deep into the Imperial Russian history of Sitka, as well as the Russian Orthodox Church, and the impact of Russian colonization on the American continent. Note that the walking tour takes place entirely outdoors.
Crescent Harbor - The first stop on the tour is in front of picturesque Crescent Harbor. The guide will explain the daily workings of a fishing town in Alaska from the personal perspective of a commercial and charter fisherman.
Sitka - The tour follows the beautiful Sitka Seawalk, paralleling the main road Lincoln St. which leads through downtown and out towards the National Park.
Sitka Fine Arts Camp - Taking a step back in time, our guide will tell the history of the Sheldon Jackson College campus. The campus has transformed dramatically over its 145 year history: originally founded as an “Indian Boarding School” this campus is now the Sitka Fine Arts Camp.
Sitka National Historic Park/Totem Park - Here in Totem Park we will discover the collection of more than 30 totem poles from across Southeast Alaska. Sitka National Historic Park, or “Totem Park”, is the site of the major battle between Russian and Tlingit forces in 1804. We will wander the paths through the forest, discussing the role this area has in Sitka’s history. Depending on the time of the summer we may see salmon running in the river that passes through the park.
Sitka Sound Science Center - Our guide will discuss the role the famous Sitka Sound Science Center plays in researching sustainable fishing. If one of the salmon runs is occurring it is possible to see salmon jumping up the stream into the hatchery processing station.

What's Included

Resident Guide
All fees and taxes included
Local dining and exploration tips
Umbrella provided

What's Not Included

Transportation (Tour starts from free cruise shuttle drop-off)
Gratuities (Always appreciated by our passionate guides!)

Additional Information

Experience the best excursion at the National Historical Park of Sitka, known as ‘Totem Park’. Discover the mythologies behind the totem poles. Have fun picking eatable berries in the woods. Your journey will deepen your understanding of the native Tlingit society. Your local escort will enlighten you about Sitka’s past as the erstwhile Russian America’s capital, especially focusing on the part Totem Park played in the 1804 Battle.

• Forage for eatable berries, spot eagles, and observe salmon in the brooks (dependent on seasons)
• The most comprehensive tour covering the National Park & its totems
• Immerse yourself in Sitka’s complete history: Tlingit, Russian & American
• Tour is tailor-made for those fascinated by history, culture & local insights

Led by a guide boasting a diverse work experience in Sitka that includes commercial fishing, truck driving, and teaching, you’ll listen to anecdotes and local wisdom that only a bona fide local can divulge. Embark on the ideal 1-hour expedition of Sitka’s National Park - ‘Totem Park.’

Location

Sitka NHP Visitor Center

Metlakatla Street

CRUISE PASSENGERS: Take the free shuttle from the cruise ships into downtown (the buses drop off at Harrigan Centennial Hall). Walk 14 min. from Harrigan Centennial Hall to the "Sitka NHP Visitor Center". Arrive 5 minutes before the tour start time. Your guide will be dressed in a red jacket.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings

4.7

(40 Ratings)

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1 star

Tiltonh2023

Oct 13, 2023

Lovely and Insightful Tour! - Very happy I signed up for this tour, the walk was nice and easy and the tour guide was very personable and passionate about the history. My girlfriend and I only had a limited amount of time on the island and this tour, plus the downtown Sitka tour, fit perfectly with our schedule. 10/10