Hike Mount Verstovia Trail, Sitka, Alaska

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Mount Verstovia, with its rugged eastern peak and its pronounced saddle to the west, is one of the iconic vistas of Sitka. The trailhead for Verstovia is about two miles south of town on the left side of Sawmill Creek Road, and is clearly marked. The trail ascends steeply from sea level, passing through the historical sites of Russian charcoal pits about a third of a mile from the trailhead. The trail showcases the ability of Southeast Alaskan trees to grow on very steep slopes! There are several scenic viewpoints along the ascent. Spectacular panoramas abound after the trail breaches the treeline, at about 2,000 feet, and ultimately ends in a rocky, alpine zone at about 2,550 feet. There is no trail to the summit of Verstovia, although it can be reached by climbing the rocky alpine ridge to the northeast. This ascent is steep and exposed and caution is advised. The Mount Verstovia trail is rugged, very steep, and occasionally slick. Appropriate for experienced hikers.

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