Sitka – final full day 6/19/2009
In the morning, Milly and Fred ventured into the Sitka harbor near both the Alaskan Ferry Dock and the campground. This is about 5 miles from town. We paddled along the coast into more isolated coves and points. After about 2 hours we returned and went up the estuary meadow area near our campsite where we had seen the brown bears the previous 2 days. There were no signs of bears but, as we went up the estuary, Milly remarked that the bears can swim!
In the afternoon, we went to the Sitka Laundry to take showers. Then, we visited the Sitka National Historical Park. This is a must see for all visitors to Sitka. The “museum” section was well done with exhibits of native history and totems. The nature walk through the 1804 Russian Tlingit battleground area was very beautifully done.
In the evening, we went to the Sitka Music Festival. It was great. We saw and listened to 3 groups of outstanding musicians play various offerings of chamber music.
Tomorrow morning, we hope to see the local Russian dancers perform before we take our ferry to Juneau at 2 PM. Its is going to be a 16 hour trip getting to Juneau at 6:30 am. We get to stop at 3 other inside passage towns on the way. We had planned on taking the fast ferry. It is in dry dock being repared. Now, we are going on the milk run. It will probably be very interesting to see Angoon, Tenekee Springs and Hoonah on way to Juneau. ( If we can stay awake)