While youre in Sitka, make sure to read about This Tiny Town In Alaska Has A Little Bit Of Everything and find out all the other amazing things to do here!Ad. The most popular and difficult wildlife trail in Sitka is, Sitka Walking Tour - Crescent Harbor to the Raptor Center. It covers most of Southeast Alaska, including the Inside Passage, Mendenhall Glacier, Bear Creek, and Admiralty Island. Selected excursions, transportation (like the railroad), and lodges offer shoulder season pricing in September--but not all do. All rights reserved. Those of us who are out there on the water, we are seeing the changes. Home Expeditions Sitka Whale Watching & Wildlife Tour Private Charter Photography Tours Full-Day Exposure Photo Tour 2-Day Photography Tour 3-Day Photography Tour Golden Sunset Photo Tour Gray Whale WebRising only 160 feet above the Pacific Ocean at the entrance to Sitka Sound, Saint Lazaria Island was established as a refuge for seabirds in 1909. Sitka Sound is home to humpback and killer whales, Stellar sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, Dall's porpoise, bald eagles, and more. While you can often see the northern lights from Fairbanks itself, many tour operators use Fairbanks as their main launching pad to take visitors beyond the Arctic Circle, which boosts your chances of seeing the lights. Lazy Otter Charters offers small group sightseeing tours into Blackstone Bay through the month of October. The center works as a non-profit bear rescue. Clearly a man of character and integrity. The earlier logbook program informed major management decisions for Pacific salmon stocks, including the development of thePacific Salmon Treatyin 1985. Northern lights adventures with Northern Alaska Tour Company. This form is for the Marine Tour and the Combo Tour. Thank you for a fantastic experience. That's where the Fortress of the Bear stepped in! Open Instagram account in a new tab. We'll match you with a local itinerary expert to help you plan your trip. Take control of your vacation! If you're a photographer, you may be interested in a fall foliage photo tour. Log In to save and share your favourites. WebUnforgettable Memories Let Us Book Your Dream Tour Each tour offers its own unique opportunity to experience the pristine beauty of Sitkas landscape, wildlife, and history. He was booked that day, but took the time read more to give me other trusted Captains numbers. The sanctuary currently has nine bear residents, both black and brown bears. Weather pending, you can also enjoy a jet ski or kayak tour through the middle of the month. Nice walking trail along the Indian River in Sitka National Historical Park. On 6/25/23, Alaska Wildlife Troopers, Sitka Post, contacted Demitrio Aragon-Abrigo, sport fishing near Biorka Island. Now, two new citizen science projects from Alaska Sea Grant and the Alaska Trollers Association will help longtime troll fishermen like Brewer take the lead to gather data about how the waters they depend on are changing. Vegan and gluten free options are available, regardless of tour time, please advise your shore excursion department 24 hours in advance. Please check in with one of our bright yellow jacket wearingteam members. Neil was very knowledgeable of the area and we saw a lot of marine wildlife! Sitka, Alaska - Wildlife Quest & Fin Island Lodge - YouTube Moore said he hopes reviving the program will give fisheries managers more data to inform salmon conservation under climate change. Fall colors in Alaska are beautiful but different from the Lower 48. We offer you convenience, flexibility and peace of mind. Its a place thats wildly beautiful, teeming with life, and historically and culturally rich. Wear flat comfortable walking shoes. He is passionate about his hometown and genuinely cares about providing a once in a lifetime experience for travelers! See local attractions and spectacular wildlife on this tour, ideal for small groups. Had a great time! They set off all the production for all the higher trophic levels and fishing and all the things that we love in Southeast Alaska.. Experience one of the worlds most incredible assemblies of marine wildlife: humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters and busy seabird rookeries. Scientists expect a future with warmer oceans and more marine heat waves. Whats more, Sitka has one of the most diverse populations of birds in the whole of Alaska. (You can find the same shoulder season pricing in late May or early June.) As a commercial troll fisherman back in the 1970s, he participated in a logbook program where fishermen studied salmon populations in the Gulf of Alaska. Most species of Southeast salmon have hadrecord low harvestsin recent years, and the devastation from the Blob a Pacific heat wave that causedmassive die-offsof marine species lingers. They have intentions of doing it again this summer, and you can find the paintings on their website for sale. But people are often skipping a crucial step, KCAW Annual EEO Report/CPB Employment Statistical Report. lat., 135 45.17' W. long. Neil was a great guide, making it fun, interesting, and well worthwhile. WebVisiting Alaska in September (2:11) September in Alaska is the shoulder seasonoffering the promise of lower prices on hotels and excursions, fewer crowds, no bugs, fall colors, Sitka, Alaska is home to the world's top salmon fishing. Read our Covid Health and Safety. Car, train, or group tour. ), Popular Alaska Itineraries Using In-State Airlines, Anchorage to Denali National Park Driving Map, Denali National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks. Due to Alaska state laws, wild bears are not allowed to be released back into the wilderness. He went above and beyond and I wasnt even a paying passenger. On 6/25/23, Alaska Wildlife Troopers, Sitka Post, contacted Demitrio Aragon-Abrigo, sport fishing near Biorka Island. Investigation revealed Aragon-Abrigo did not have a valid 2023 sport fishing license. For most travelers, Southeast Alaska means cruisingand cruising in September offers just as much of a gamble as a land tour. Access to Coast-Guard recommended marine binoculars for all guests while onboard. Management of Southeast salmon fisheries was the center of a legal battle this spring, after a federal judge ordered theclosure of the Southeast chinook fishery. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Our destination will be St. Lazaria Island, a 17-acre, rocky, volcanic outcropping where every square foot of ground is home to the burrows and nesting birds. She spends her free time traveling with her husband and daughter around the US and the world. This vessel adheres to the Alaska Humpback WhaleApproach Guidelines and does not intentionally approachwhales within 100 yards. While brochures wax poetic about how early fall can be the perfect time to visit Alaska, the days are shorter, and it can also be rainy and cooler. WebPictures of Alaska wildlife taken on tour with Sitka Alaska Outfitters. This area is similar to Denali in the sense that many hotels and tours shut down by mid-Septemberafter which things are really shut down. Sitka black-tailed deer have been translocated throughout Alaska, wrote Sullivan. Joe D / TripAdvisor. Contact us for your personalized trip: mix and match fishing times and wildlife tours, spend a day stretching your legs on one of the many beaches or islands around Sitka, follow me on a hike through the Tongass National Rainforest, or relax in natural hot springs with a view at the end of a long day. Thats crucial for determining what marine conditions that are normal, as opposed to conditions that might be caused by climate change. Boat (or non-marking) shoes are not necessary. Sitka, AK 99835, Sitka Scenic Tour Premium by VAN- PRIVATE. WebThe Totem Trail showcases totem poles that reproduce those donated by SE Alaska Native leaders to be exhibited at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair and the 1905 Lewis and Clark Megan McDonald is a writer, photographer, and owner of humu media, an Alaska-based digital media agency. We will not re-engage our motors until it it is a safe distance from us, Explore Sitkas Diverse Bird Population by Boat, PREVIOUS GUESTS RAVE ABOUT A WHALES SONG EXPEDITIONS, TripAdvisor Home Page (opens in a new tab), TripAdvisor Location Page (opens in a new tab), Puffins and humpbacks and seals, oh my!, Great wildlife viewing, even better information, TripAdvisor Reviews For Location Page (opens in a new tab), TripAdvisor Write a Review Page (opens in a new tab), 140 Granite Creek Road #17, Sitka, AK 99835, United States. At most you may see them arguing over a piece of delectable food. And Ill tell you its pretty spooky.. We invite you to come explore with us and discover the untamed beauty, abundant wildlife and story of Baranof Island and Sitka Sound. Our vessel is located just down the gangway in the harbor next to Harrigan Hall. Parking lot surface: paved; What we tell our friends is, "Come earlier in the summer, if you can. But theres a lack of data to explain how climate change is shaping Southeast fisheries. After the meal, you may beachcomb, explore the beautiful grounds of the exclusive island, or relax next to the cozy beach fire. Girdwood is great to visit in the fall. Well head out on our spacious and comfortable catamaran to explore the wildlife paradise that is Sitka Sound. (Photo courtesy of Eric Brewer) Eric Brewers life on the ocean began more than 70 years ago, when his parents started taking him out on Our picks for the best tours and experiences during your Alaska Cruise. Book entire boat for your family or group, or opt to bunk with other guests. Situated on 200 acres, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Girdwood is home to black and brown bears, moose, caribou, coyotes, wolves, musk ox and other Alaska animals. If you are prone to motion sickness, take your remedies at least 1 hour in advance. Sitka Sound is home to some of the most amazing wildlife in the world. So, if you want to experience this area, you just have to come in the early part of the month. Which wildlife trail has the most elevation gain in Sitka? Captain Gary was a great read more tour guide and boat captain. WebSitka. On the other, the tundra can glow bright red--and smell fragrant beyond words. It may not be a huge fair, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in character. Sitka, Alaska. See Sitkas top three attractions in one amazing tour! The paintings were a huge hit, and the non-profit was able to sell them to fundraise at $50.00 a piece. We locals call these early snows Termination Dust, as in signaling the end of summer and that old man winter is just around the corner. Temperatures on the water are cooler so dress in layers. Bird viewing booklets specifically designed for Sitka. At 73, Brewer still fishes regularly. We will meet you under the pavilion. The most popular and difficult wildlife trail in Sitka is Mount Verstovia Trail with a 4.7-star rating from 237 reviews. Watch the birds from the boats expansive and unobstructed viewing platforms with commentary and guidance from our expert, certified naturalist guide. The winter of 2018-2019 is closed for construction improvements to facility enhancements! Whats more, Sitka has one of the most diverse populations of birds in the whole of Depending on where you intend to go, September plays out differently--sometimes for the better, sometimes the worse. On these charters we troll for salmon covering lots of ground where clients can relax and enjoy the view as we give you the best shot at reeling in your trophy. Tours are available Monday to Sunday, year-round. They also sometimes do craft markets, frequently selling ornaments of the bears, and other fun items. The sun doesnt rise until about 8 a.m. and sets at 7:30pm. Moore said the new logbook program could give fishermen a more solid legal defense against future lawsuits. And the color is gorgeous: youll see a nice mix of the bright yellow deciduous trees in the lower elevations near the park entrance, and as you get into the park and the tundra emerges, youll see a vibrant, deep red. Trail Details: Catch a glimpse of bald eagles and peregrine falcons and marvel at beautiful volcanic scenery. Alaskan crab, wild salmon, prime rib, homemade side dishes, and dessert are all-inclusive with the tour. Eric Brewers life on the ocean began more than 70 years ago, when his parents started taking him out on the familys troller. Trollers have a long history of standing up for salmon. The views get even more spectacular if you take a flightseeing tour and see the parks colors from above. Trips available from Whittier, Homer, Seward, Juneau, and Sitka. Insider tips to pick the best Alaska cruise. If youre looking to get away from the overcrowded tour boats this is PERFECT! Walk the local trails, and dine at the local restaurants, like Jack Sprat. Non-cruise Ship Guests:Our vessel Catdaddy is in Crescent Harbor. To reduce the number of items in the waste stream (the life cycle of garbage), personal water bottles are recommended. Plus, our mosquitoes usually die off the first week in August, so they are long gone. Discover the optimal month due to daylight, temperature, and rain. Last week,a higher court ruledthat the fishery could remain open this summer. This hike features incredible views of the surrounding water ways and vast mountains further into the island. Click here to Learn more about sitka scenic tour, Click here to Learn more about sitka marine adventure, Click here to Learn more about sitka scenic tour private, Click here to Learn more about premium sitka scenic tour, Click here to Learn more about private sitka premium scenic tour, Click here to Learn more about preparation, Click here to Learn more about things to do, Click here to Learn more about contact us, Click here to view location 330 Harbor Drive Meanwhile, the national park starts offering abbreviated versions of their summer bus toursbasically, the tours only drive as far into the park as you can go without seeing signs of winter along the road (as in, snow). Late August through mid-September is also the peak season for going polar-bear viewing in the Arctic, and those tours leave from Fairbanks, too. WebWildlife Sitka is a town on Baranof Island, and we are the only community is Southeast Alaska that faces the open ocean. Clearly a man of character and integrity. Highly Recommend! Click Here. Look for wildlife such as sea otters, harbor seals, whales, bald eagles and tufted puffins. Beverages and snacks including coffee, hot chocolate, tea, water. September is a time of dramatic transformation: the tundra is ablaze in color, autumn colors peak by mid-September (even earlier farther north, or in Denali) and you even have a chance of seeing the northern lights after 11pm if you are away from the city. We have a table set up in front of the building.. This trail is estimated to be 23.2 km long. Most people opt for the skis and snowboard in winter. Day Tours Take to the sea or tour the town, day tours range from wildlife viewing to photography, and more. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. But not always. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, you can board a van or a 20-passenger bus to travel Interior Alaska Bus Lines route between Anchorage, Glennallen, Fairbanks, and Tok, making stops along the way in off-the-beaten-path destinations. KCAW Prize Drawings: click on the links for rules and winner info. Rafe Hanson, thank you for allowing us to use your wonderful video overlooking Sitka, Alaska! September is actually the beginning of the peak season of this Alaskan city: Fairbanks is a nice destination year round, but really starts to shine when the night skies finally become dark enough to view the northern lights. What is certain is that the days are shorter. Brewer whos piloting the logbook program this summer said collaborating with scientists is a long game for fishermen. He actually called back the next day to follow up to see if my family was able to book with another Captain and see if he could help anymore. Sea otters, whales, harbor seals, brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and a variety of marine birds are all commonly seen in the tour area. Highlights plus less visited destinations. Have a whale of a time on this marine wildlife excursion! If so, let us know what you thought in the comments below! If you dont know the temperature and salinity, you dont know much of anything.. Boutique, small ship adventure cruises in Alaska's Inside Passage, Cruises depart from Whittier, a 1 hr drive from Anchorage. 7-10 days is the most common. Many of the bears at the sanctuary are related as brother and sisters, and they all get along very well and playfully. During summer, we are often lucky enough to see chicks and throughout the year it is an excellent location to observe tufted puffins, common & thick-billed murres, black oystercatchers, rhinoceros auklets, and pigeon guillemots. Enjoy a more personalized experience with your own boat, a customizable itinerary, and a captain providing commentary tailored to you on this private trip. Our premier Sitka photography tours are designed especially for One interesting alternative that works for the whole month of September is the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry System (check their page for more details). Admission to Fortress of the Bear Meet the rescued Alaskan Coastal Brown Bears up close and learn their stories and how we save orphan bear cubs from certain death. Choose a round-trip Inside passage or one-way Gulf of Alaska Cruise. Founded in 2002, The Fortress of the Bear is a wildlife sanctuary located in Sitka, Alaska. To know what salmon and other marine animals are eating and when theyre not getting enough to eat scientists need information on temperature and salinity. Seward Ocean Excursions offers small-group custom charters year-round. Sitka Maritime Heritage Society board member Bruce Gazaway, and new executive director Keith Nyitray, share details about the societys annual Fourth of July WWII & Wildlife cruise (departs Crescent Harbor 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 4, $65 adults, $40 children 12 and under). Which one is right for you? An onboard naturalist will provide narration regarding the remarkable ecosystem of the area and point out places of interest and wildlife throughout the voyage. Most of ours turn yellow and orange. So, if you want to experience the entire park roadall the way to Kantishna and Wonder LakeSeptember is likely a no-go. After exhibiting the poles Alaska Governor Brady sent the poles to Sitka where they were erected in the "government park", now Sitka National Historical Park. Wear comfortable, closed-toe, rubber-sole, flat shoes. Wow, what a fabulous tour! During the first half of the month, it can still feel like Alaska summer, with temps in the high 50s and 60 (maybe even 70), and about 14 hours of light every day (sunrise at 7 a.m., sunset at 9 p.m.). A little over an hour south of Anchorage, the small town of Whittier is situated on the shores of Prince William Sound. WebOver 230 bird species have been documented in the Sitka area. But that doesnt mean things are totally shut downand there are some nice upsides to September here. From $89. You can check them out on your own, or opt for a guided excursion or overnight experience. That process triggers spring phytoplankton blooms. They have built a sanctuary to allow wild bear cubs to be raised and used for conservation efforts. We could not have asked for a more perfect trip. A troll fishing boat near Sitka. WebNovembers annual Sitka WhaleFest, hosted by the Sitka Sound Science Center, celebrates marine life through a science symposium, art, wildlife cruises and so much