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Alaska's
oldest federally designated park was established in 1910 to commemorate
the 1804 Battle of Sitka. All that remains of this last major conflict
between Europeans and Alaska Natives is the site of the Tlingit Fort and
battlefield, located within this scenic 113 acre park in a temperate rain
forest.
Southeast Alaska totem poles and a temperate rain forest setting combine
to provide spectacular scenery along the park's coastal trail. The trail
circles back along Indian River to the visitor center. Another loop trail
continues across the Indian River footbridge past the Memorial to the
Russian Midshipmen who died in the Battle of Sitka.
The park's story continues
at the Russian Bishop's House, one of three surviving examples of Russian
colonial architecture in North America. This original 1843 log structure
conveys the legacy of Russian America through exhibits, refurbished Bishop's
living quarters and lavish icons in the Chapel of the Annunciation.
Operating Hours &
Seasons
Mid-May through September
30: The visitor center is open daily, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Russian
Bishop's House is open daily, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
October through Mid-May: The Visitor Center is open Monday through
Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Russian Bishop's House is open by
appointment only.
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