Marine Highway Route
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Sitka, Alaska
Russian history abounds in the city of Sitka, and is no more apparent than at St. Michael’s Cathedral, located in the heart of downtown. You can stop in at the Russian Bishop’s House on Lincoln Street for tour information, and make sure to take a look at Castle Hill, which marks the spot where the U.S. formally took possession of Alaska from Russia on October 18, 1867. Enjoy a self-guided walk through Sitka National Historic Park and view eagles and other birds at the Alaska Raptor Center.
Juneau, Alaska
Alaska’s capital city is a vibrant and active port town. With a huge tourism industry as well as the standard fishing trade, you will find a wealth of things to do. It is also a vista of natural beauty, with towering trees, a virtual rainforest of flora and fauna and the gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. Visit the Mendenhall Glacier via a flightseeing tour, or take a raft trip on the Mendenhall River. To gain insight into the area’s Gold Rush history, enjoy a visit to the Juneau-Douglas City Museum or the Last Chance Mining Museum. The Alaska State Museum is home to the largest state exhibit of Alaska’s ethnic cultures.
Haines, Alaska
Haines is rich in Gold Rush history as well, but the most well-known residents here are of the winged variety. There is a huge concentration of bald eagles in this small town, especially during the winter months. The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve can be found on the Chilkat River flats, and is a 48,000-acre area that is dedicated to protecting the bald eagle population.
Skagway, Alaska
The Alaska town of Skagway is a quiet winter resting spot for about 800 year-round locals, and an energetic tourist hot spot all summer long. Evidence of Gold Rush history fills this town, from the false-front buildings on the town’s main street to the “Soapy Smith Show” that provides a frolicking evening of entertainment. Make sure to stop in at the Klondike Gold Rush National History Park on Second Avenue, and the three-hour excursion on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad should not be missed.
