Baranof Castle State Historic Site

A winding path leads visitors to the top of Castle Hill, offering panoramic views of downtown Sitka and the waterfront. Several interpretative panels describe important events in Sitka’s history, and a commemorative plaque marks the spot where Alaska was officially transferred to the United States, in a ceremony formalizing the Alaska Purchase. A great way to admire Castle Hill is from the Sitka Harbor on a guided kayak or boat trip. Visits to the Baranof Castle State Historical Site are included in most sightseeing tours of Sitka.

• The views from the top of Castle Hill are a must-see for first-time visitors to Sitka.

• The hill is about 60 feet (18 meters) high, so it’s just a short walk to the top.

• No admission fee is required to visit the park.

• The top of Castle Hill is reachable via a paved path and ramps, so it is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

The Baranof Castle State Historical Site is located along the waterfront in downtown Sitka, within walking distance of Totem Square and St. Michael’s Cathedral. Castle Hill is visible from downtown—you can’t miss it. Just look for the hill with the United States and Alaska state flag flying at the top.

The Baranof Castle State Historical Site is a city park, so it's always open. It’s a great spot to catch the sunset over Sitka Sound and to photograph downtown Sitka from above. Sitka is less crowded than other Alaskan cruise ports, but expect to see cruise ship visitors from May through September.

To learn more about the Russian exploration and colonization of Alaska, visit the Sitka History Museum adjacent to the Sitka Centennial Visitors Center. Here you’ll find a model replica of how the city of Sitka looked when it was sold to the United States in 1867, as well as exhibits about the first European and Russian explorers. Also stop by the Russian Bishop’s House, where you can tour one of the oldest buildings of Russian America.