Since time immemorial, hundreds of thousands of salmon embark each year on an incredible journey from the ocean back to the freshwater rivers and streams of their birth. This journey, known as the salmon run, is a critical phase in the salmon’s life cycle. During this period, the salmon return to their birthing place to spawn. Sitka’s waterways transform into vibrant hubs of activity as the salmon navigate upstream, guided by their internal compass and Earth’s magnetic field to reach their spawning grounds.

 

Cultural Significance

Abundant salmon in the rivers attracted wildlife to the area, playing a pivotal role in drawing the Tlingit people to the region over 10,000 years ago. Tlingít people have long relied on salmon not only as a primary food source but also as a cornerstone of social and spiritual practices. Salmon are deeply respected and honored by the people of Sitka and are given the strong level of respect as you would another living thing. Elders pass down traditional knowledge about fishing techniques, preservation methods, and respectful harvesting practices to succeeding generations. This passing of knowledge not only honors the traditions but also ensures the sustainability of salmon, which have been vital for nourishing many generations of the ecosystem, wildlife, and people.

Photo: Pink salmon crowded in a river

 

The Salmon Lifecycle

Salmon are anadromous fish, which means they are born in freshwater, migrate to the ocean to grow and mature, and then return to freshwater to spawn. This life cycle includes several key stages:

  1. Eggs: Salmon begin their lives as eggs, laid in freshwater streams and rivers. Salmon eggs typically hatch within 5-8 months.
  2. Alevin: After hatching, they remain in a gravel nest, feeding on their yolk sacs.
  3. Fry: Once they absorb their yolk sacs, they emerge as fry and begin to feed on their own. They transition to the estuaries, where they adapt to the fresh and salt water mix before entering the sea.
  4. Adult Salmon: Salmon will continue to grow and mature in the ocean. Mature salmon will eventually return to their birthplace to spawn and create the next generation of salmon.

 

When and Where to View the Salmon Run

In Sitka, salmon begin their run in late July and go through September. For your best chance to view, plan your trip anywhere from mid-August to mid-September. During this peak period, the rivers come alive with fish, making it seem as though the river itself is made of salmon!

Photo: Salmon in Indian River at Sitka National Historical Park

 

Here are some of the best spots to see the run:

 

Indian River (Kaasda Héen)

Accessible from downtown Sitka, the Indian River (Kaasda Héen in Tlingít) is the most common viewing spot for salmon running. Pink and chum salmon are the most commonly-found fish running through this river during spawning season. The Indian River can be accessed from two main points:

  • Sitka National Historical Park

    Sitka National Historical Park (SNHP) is a gorgeous, immersive walking trail lined with totem poles. This scenic trail loops around near the river, where a bridge offers an excellent vantage point for salmon viewing. This is a great way to view salmon during spawning season, enjoy stunning ocean views, and immerse yourself in Sitka’s rich history and culture all in one experience.

Photo: Views from the bridge above Indian Rive at Sitka National Historical Park

  • Indian River Trail

    The trailhead for Indian River Trail is a short walk from downtown Sitka. This easy-going trail follows the river upstream and is a great viewing location with lots of picnic spots along the water. Make sure to take extra care when accessing this trail during spawning season- this area is a hotspot for bears trying to catch a meal from the river. Read our hiking essentials blog for bear safety tips on the trails.

 

Starrigavan River (Gájaa Héen)

On the opposite end of town lies the Starrigavan River (Gájaa Héen in Tlingít), flooded with Pink and Coho salmon during spawning season. This spot offers a serene alternative to the bustle of town for salmon viewing. From the Starrigavan Creek bridge, you can enjoy picturesque muskeg views and access-points to the estuary for close-up viewing. For cruise passengers, the Starrigavan area is a scenic two-mile roadside walk from the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal, perfect for those looking to stretch their legs. Alternatively, you can bike, hike, or rent a car to explore the area. Use caution here as well, as the quiet muskeg environment situated at the end of the road system is also a popular spot for bears.

Photo: Salmon jumping at Starrigavan River

 

Sitka Sound Science Center

The Sitka Sound Science Center, home to Alaska’s oldest operating salmon hatchery, takes pride in educating many of the state’s biologists, fishery managers, and aquaculture specialists. The hatchery is authorized to rear and release 3 million Pink salmon, 3 million Chum salmon, and 250,000 Coho salmon annually. Visitors can tour the facility to learn about the salmon life cycle, the history of hatcheries, and their ongoing role in sustaining fish populations.

A salmon ladder can be found just minutes away from downtown Sitka, where, during spawning season, visitors can easily view salmon running at the hatchery.

Photo: Sitka Sound Science Center staff collecting and fertilizing salmon eggs | © 2019 Brian Adams, photo courtesy of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

 

Witnessing salmon spawning in Sitka is a mesmerizing experience that offers a rare glimpse into one of nature’s most extraordinary events. As you observe, be mindful to keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the fish, follow local guidelines to protect their habitat, and honor cultural practices and local customs. Additionally, be prepared for the intense aroma that accompanies the spawning process- it may be surprising to those unfamiliar with it. Embrace this unique sensory detail as part of the journey, and you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of this phenomenon.