Things to do nearSilver Bay

Silver Bay is a glacially carved inlet stretching roughly twelve kilometers southeast of downtown Sitka, cutting deep into the western edge of Baranof Island. The surrounding terrain belongs to the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States, and the old-growth Sitka spruce and western hemlock that line the bay's steep walls have stood largely undisturbed for centuries.

On the water, kayaking is the most rewarding way to experience the bay's full length. Paddlers move quietly enough to observe harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and the occasional humpback whale that ventures into the inlet from the open sound. Bald eagles are a near-constant presence overhead.

The broader area around Silver Bay connects naturally to the cultural richness of Sitka. A short drive brings you to Sitka National Historical Park, where Tlingit totem poles stand among old-growth trails and the story of the region's Indigenous heritage is thoughtfully told.

Silver Bay suits those who want genuine Alaskan wilderness without a long expedition. Its accessible location near Sitka, combined with the drama of its fjord-like scenery and the density of its wildlife, makes it one of the most quietly compelling natural destinations on Baranof Island.