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Sitka Hiking Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Tongass Treks Tour FAQs
Are your tours good for cruise passengers?
Yes! Many of our guests are visiting Sitka on a cruise. All tours are designed to fit within your port time, with reliable pickup and drop-off. We track ship schedules and build our timing around your port window. We meet you at your dock and transportation is included in the price. It is best to allow 30 minutes from docking time to the start time of your reservation to avoid being rushed or late.
How difficult are the hikes?
We offer a range of hikes from easy walks to more challenging alpine routes. Each tour page clearly explains the difficulty, terrain, and elevation. If you’re unsure, reach out and we’ll help you choose the right fit.
What should I expect on a Tongass Treks tour?
All tours are private and tailored to your group. We keep a relaxed pace with time for photos, questions, and taking in the scenery. Your guide will share local knowledge about wildlife, plants, and Sitka’s history along the way. Transportation is included, and we pick you up directly in Sitka.
Do I need hiking experience?
Nope! many of our guests are not experienced hikers. As long as you choose a tour that matches your comfort level, you’ll be fine. We keep a flexible pace and adjust to your group.
What is the age recommendation for hikes?
We regularly guide families, and many of our tours are a great fit for kids when the right hike is chosen. There’s no strict age requirement for trails but please read the section about transportation needs for children under 7. Based on each hike's distance and difficulty, we recommend the following minimum ages: - All ages: Beaver Lake, Photography Tour, Customizable, Historical Tour, Shore and Summit. - Ages 7+: Herring Cove and Beaver Lake, and Harbor Mountain to Alpine Hut. - Ages 10+: Indian River to Falls, Gavan Hill and Harbor Mountain. Children can also be carried in backpacks if you have experience doing so on similar terrain and distances. These recommendations are based on average ability and help keep the experience enjoyable and on schedule. That said, you know your group best, and we’ll always work with you to ensure a great fit. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to recommend the best option based on your group.
How many people can join a tour?
Most of our hikes can have up to 7 people. This is due to trail regulations through the US Forest Service and the City of Sitka. There are a few trail where we can accommodate more than 7. If you have more than 7 people please send us and email or request through or customizable tour option.
What should I bring on my hiking tour?
Comfortable hiking shoes with good traction, a rain jacket or waterproof layer, warm layers (weather can change quickly), a hat, water, and a small backpack to put your extra layers and water in. We hike rain or shine, so it’s best to come prepared for Southeast Alaska conditions.
Are your tours better than cruise excursions?
If you’re looking for a more personal experience, yes. Our tours are fully private, flexible, and never rushed. You won’t be in a large group, and we can adjust the pace and stops based on your interests. Many guests tell us this is the highlight of their trip.
Sitka and Tongass National Forest FAQs
Is Sitka good for hiking?
Yes! Sitka is one of the best places in Alaska for hiking, with access to rainforest trails, alpine terrain, waterfalls, and coastal views all within a short distance.
What are the best things to do in Sitka, Alaska
Private guided hikes are one of the top-rated activities in Sitka, in addition to wildlife viewing, and exploring Sitka’s history. Our private guided tours combine all three, giving you a more personal and immersive way to experience Sitka beyond standard bus tours.
What is the best hike in Sitka?
The best hike will depend on your experience level and what you’re interested in. Beaver Lake is great for a moderate, scenic hike, while Harbor Mountain offers more challenging terrain with incredible alpine views. Or a customizable hike that can be tailored to you if you have a special interest or request. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to recommend the best option for you and the people in your group.
Will we see wildlife on the tour?
Wildlife sightings are common but never guaranteed. Sitka is home to bald eagles, coastal brown bears, salmon, deer, and marine life like whales and sea otters. Wildlife activity varies by season, but there’s always something to see. Your guide knows where to look and will point out things most people miss.
Will we see bears?
Sitka is in bear country, your guide will carry bear spray and knows what to do if a bear is encountered. There will be a bear and safety briefing before your tour starts. Bears are curious, intelligent, and potentially dangerous, but they tend to avoid or ignore groups. It is important to be bear aware and know the risks and safety precautions for hiking in and around the Tongass National Forest.
What is the weather like in Sitka?
Sitka is in the heart of a temperate rainforest. It has a mild coastal climate with frequent rain. Temperatures are usually cool, and conditions can change quickly. Being prepared with layers and rain gear makes a big difference.
What should I wear hiking in Sitka?
Layered clothing that you can easily put on and take off works best. Start with a t-shirt for the base layer, add a warm layer, and bring a waterproof outer layer. As you hike you will be warmer and probably not wear all of your layers, but will want to have extra clothing for when you stop or if it is raining.
Booking and Policy FAQs
What are the age requirements for tranportation?
The State of Alaska requires children 7 and under who are less than 65 pounds and less than 57 inches tall to be in a car seat or booster seat. If you cannot bring your own, Sitka Baby Rentals (sitkababyrentals.com) offers affordable baby equipment. We can help accommodate picking up and dropping off the equipment for you, but please let us know before you book so we can coordinate on the times.
Can I add more people to my existing reservation?
In most instances, yes! If you add extra people to the reservation, the cost difference for additional people will be due prior to the start of the hike. If you would like to add people to an existing booking please be in contact before your hike to confirm availability and price.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 21+ days prior to the booked tour will receive a full refund minus a 6% processing/admin fee. Cancellations made 14-20 days of the tour's start date will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made within 13 days or less or no-shows (more than 20 minutes late from the start time of the tour) will receive no refund unless due to a last-minute cruise ship cancellation to the port of Sitka. If you cannot make it to your hike due to your cruise ship canceling its stop in Sitka, you will receive a full refund minus a 5% processing/admin fee. Outings are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including, but not limited to, weather conditions, wildlife, park or public land closures, and unsafe trail conditions. If the itinerary you booked cannot be accommodated, another option of similar difficulty and distance will be provided. Tongass Treks reserves the right to cancel outings due to unsafe conditions or unforeseen circumstances. If this is the case, a full refund of the amount paid will be given. Tongass Treks is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by preparing for the trip (for example non-refundable advance purchase air tickets, clothing, equipment, etc.) and suggests a third-party "cancel for any reason" travel insurance for unexpected travel interruptions.
What happens if it rains?
Tours run in all weather conditions. Rain is a normal part of life in Sitka, and often makes the forest and waterfalls even more impressive. As long as you’re dressed properly, it’s still a great experience and ss it is commonly said – “There's no bad weather, only bad clothing.” Unless there are unsafe conditions, the trek will go on. If your reservation needs to be canceled due to unsafe conditions and full refund will be given.
Is gratuity included?
A gratuity is not included in the listed price of a hike. If guests would like to leave a tip at the end of the hike it is always greatly appreciated. Tips commonly range from 10% to 20% of the booking price.
Will we need to sign a waiver?
Tongass Treks requires each participant to sign Activity Waiver & Acknowledgement of Risks Agreement, which will need to be signed prior to starting the tour. Your guide will have a copy of the waivers on hand when they meet you on the date of your outing. If you have any questions, please get in touch prior to your tour.
What is a leave-no-trace excursion?
Tongass Treks is a U.S. Forest Service permitted company of the Tongass National Forest. Our tours in Sitka are conducted in the Tongass National Forest, under permit by and in partnership with the Forest Service. We are dedicated to educating our clients and other visitors about the importance of preservation and the Leave No Trace principles. All hikes are a leave-no-trace excursion, including no littering or food left behind.