Effective on Saturday, Nov. 12, the Sitka National Historical Park will reopen the Totem Trail Loop for daytime use between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. All other park trails, including the trail from Sawmill Creek Road (East Entrance) to the pedestrian bridge, the Riverview Trail, the pedestrian bridge within the park, and Russian Memorial Loop trail, remain closed at all times. The pedestrian bridge may be accessed from the Totem Trail Loop for photos and wildlife viewing, but we ask that visitors return to the Totem Trail and not cross to the east entrance side.
Be aware that bears could be present in the park at any time. Daytime trail users are encouraged to be alert, make noise in areas of limited visibility, and avoid areas that have recent signs of bear activity (tracks, scat, or active fishing).
Park staff continue to monitor bear activity and daytime trail closures may be in effect when needed. Closures and advisories are posted at trail heads and junctions. Red indicates trails are closed due to consistent bear activity. Yellow indicates one should use caution as a bear encounter is possible. Please keep yourself and the bears safe by respecting the trail status and temporary closures.
For additional information, visit the park’s web page, http://www.nps.gov/sitk, or call the Visitor Center at (907) 747-0110.