The best hikes from bus stations in Sitka City and Borough
4.7
(15)
201
hikers
10
hikes
Hiking in Sitka City and Borough offers access to diverse landscapes shaped by temperate rainforests, rugged coastlines, and mountainous terrain. The region features lush forests of Sitka spruce and Western hemlock, alongside distinctive muskeg ecosystems. Trails often follow the shoreline, providing views of Sitka Sound, and ascend to higher elevations with panoramic outlooks over the Pacific Ocean and surrounding islands. The area's geology includes volcanic formations and dramatic peaks, providing varied elevation changes for hikers.
Best bus station hiking trails…
Last updated: May 27, 2026
4.7
(3)
22
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
6.26km
04:11
720m
720m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Sign up for free
3
hikers
5.81km
01:33
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Alaska Raptor Center is located in Sitka, Alaska. It is a non-profit organization specializing in the rehabilitation of injured birds of prey. Native birds of prey can be seen there, including eagles, hawks, owls, and falcons. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
1
0
At the Alaska Raptor Center, you can observe various species of birds of prey up close. Highlights include the various species of eagles, especially bald eagles. The zookeepers are happy to answer visitors' questions. Accessible by bus or a half-hour walk from Sitka. Admission is $16 per person.
0
0
Sitka National Cemetery is a United States National Cemetery located in the city of Sitka, Alaska. It covers 4.3 hectares and had 1,049 burials as of the end of 2005. It is administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as part of Fort Richardson National Cemetery.
0
0
Not far from the harbor, you can visit this beautiful cathedral. Its spire is unmissable and well worth a visit.
2
0
Picnic Rock makes a natural turnaround point for runners. Once you start the next upslope on Mount Verstovia, the terrain gets too rough to run.
1
0
The Sitka Sea Walk is an easy, paved trail that runs between the harbor/coastline on one side, and mostly green city spaces on the other. Occasionally, the sea walk follows boardwalks through brushy forest. Keep an eye out for crowds of walkers, especially on cruise ship days, plus marine-themed sculpture and interpretive signs. Some of them are worth breaking stride for, or checking out on your way back.
0
0
Picnic Rock makes a natural turnaround point for many hikers. It's also a good vantage point for scoping out the rest of the challenging path up Mount Verstovia, which often retains patches of snow into the summer and can feel like as much a scramble as a hike.
2
0
Keep an eye out for spawning salmon in the river under the bridge. The runs tend to be strongest in July and August; if you visit far outside that time, you might not see many fish. Any time you see a river full of fish in Alaska, make sure you keep an eye out for bears as well. They can't resist the allure of such a rich, readily available food source.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are available in Sitka City and Borough?
There are 9 hiking routes in Sitka City and Borough that are easily accessible from bus stations, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls to challenging mountain climbs.
What types of landscapes can I expect on bus-accessible hikes in Sitka?
You'll encounter a diverse range of landscapes, including lush temperate rainforests with towering Sitka spruce and Western hemlock, unique muskeg ecosystems, and rugged coastal paths offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Sitka Sound. Some trails also provide access to mountainous terrain with panoramic vistas.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus?
Yes, several easy routes are perfect for families. The Totem Trail – Bridge over Indian River loop is a great option, offering a gentle walk through old-growth forests and past historic totem poles. Another accessible choice is the Bridge over Indian River – Sitka Sea Walk loop, which provides coastal views.
What are some challenging bus-accessible hikes for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a challenge, the View of Sitka – Picnic Rock loop offers a difficult ascent with rewarding views from Picnic Rock. Another demanding option is the Sitka Sea Walk – Bridge over Indian River loop, which also features significant elevation changes.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along these trails?
Many trails pass by significant cultural and natural landmarks. You can explore the Totem Trail within Sitka National Historical Park, visit the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center, or walk along the Sitka Sea Walk. The Bridge over Indian River is also a notable spot, especially for salmon viewing in late summer and early fall.
Are there any circular routes available from bus stations?
Yes, several routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point, often near a bus stop. Examples include the Bridge over Indian River – Sitka National Historical Park loop and the Totem Trail – Bridge over Indian River loop.
What do other hikers say about the bus-accessible trails in Sitka City and Borough?
The komoot community highly rates these trails, with an average score of 4.63 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal and rainforest scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the unique cultural insights offered by trails like those in Sitka National Historical Park.
When is the best time of year to hike in Sitka City and Borough?
While hiking is possible year-round, late spring through early fall (May to September) generally offers the most favorable conditions with milder weather and longer daylight hours. This period is also ideal for wildlife viewing and experiencing the vibrant alpine wildflowers in June and July. Salmon spawning can be observed in late summer and early fall.
Are dogs allowed on these bus-accessible hiking trails?
Many trails in Sitka City and Borough are dog-friendly, but leash rules and specific restrictions may apply, especially within protected areas like Sitka National Historical Park. It's always best to check local regulations for the specific trail you plan to hike.
Can I see waterfalls or significant natural features on these hikes?
While specific waterfalls aren't highlighted on these particular bus-accessible routes, the region is known for its lush rainforests and coastal features. Trails like those near Herring Cove (though not directly listed as bus-accessible in this guide) are known for waterfalls. You will certainly experience the unique muskeg ecosystems and dense old-growth forests characteristic of Sitka.
Are there any trails that offer views of Mount Edgecumbe?
Yes, trails that ascend to higher elevations, such as the Gavan Hill to Harbor Mountain Trail (which connects to the View of Sitka – Picnic Rock loop), can offer stunning panoramic views of Mount Edgecumbe and Sitka Sound on clear days.
Most popular routes in Sitka City and Borough
Most popular attractions in Sitka City and Borough
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
