A winding path leads visitors to the top of the Castle Hill, offering panoramic views of downtown Sitka and the waterfront. Several interpretative panels describe important events in Sitka’s history and commemorative plaque marks the spot where Alaska was officially transferred to the United States.. 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 on the top of it.
The Baranof Castle State Historical Site is a city park, so it is 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.
