Sitka Cross Trail

The full length of the trail is about 11.6 kilometers (7.2 miles) one way. For an average jogger, completing the entire route can take around 1 hour and 28 minutes. However, with its numerous access points, you can easily choose shorter segments or create loops to fit your desired duration.

The trail is primarily a wide, 8-foot gravel-paved pathway, offering a generally smooth and consistent surface. While mostly well-maintained, some sections, particularly between the Indian River and the high school, may have tree roots, shallow mud, and puddles after rain. During winter, expect packed snow and ice, which can make it slippery.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy to moderately difficult, making it suitable for a wide range of joggers, including beginners. While mostly flat, it does feature rolling hills and a few short, moderately challenging sections with grades up to 15%. The overall elevation gain is modest, typically between 100-200 feet.

You'll experience a diverse Alaskan landscape, winding through muskeg, forested wetlands, old-growth timber, and second-growth forests. Occasional clearings provide picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and Sitka Sound. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, songbirds, and spawning salmon, depending on the season. Wildflowers also bloom in the muskeg from late spring to late summer.

The trail offers beauty year-round. Late spring to late summer is ideal for wildflowers and generally drier conditions. Fall brings vibrant foliage. Winter can be beautiful with snow, but be prepared for packed snow and ice, which can make sections slippery. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Absolutely! A particularly scenic spot is the beautiful bridge crossing the waterfalls at Cascade Creek. The trail also connects to various parts of Sitka, including neighborhoods, parks, and schools. You can even connect to Sitka National Historical Park (Totem Park) for an added cultural dimension to your run.

Yes, the Sitka Cross Trail is part of an extensive network. The route itself covers significant portions of the official Cross Trail and also passes through sections of the Indian River Trail and the Harbor Mountain / Gavan Hill Trail, offering opportunities to extend or vary your run.

The trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles by picking up after your pet to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

No, you do not need a permit or have to pay an entrance fee to access and jog the Sitka Cross Trail. It is freely accessible to the public.

The trail boasts numerous access points, with 11 noted locations, making it very accessible. An extension added in June 2023 provides convenient access near the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal, which is particularly helpful for cruise ship visitors. While specific parking details vary by access point, many neighborhood access points offer street parking or small lots. For more detailed information on access points, you can check resources like visitsitka.org.

For cruise visitors, the recent extension near the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal offers highly convenient access, allowing you to easily join the trail for a jog without needing transportation. With its multiple access points and length, you can start at various points to create shorter out-and-back runs or even plan loops using connecting streets, depending on how much time you have.