Gavan Hill

Gavan Hill Trailhead

Summary:

With a trailhead close to town, and access to excellent views from above the treeline, Gavan Hill is one of the more popular trails in Sitka. It is well known locally for the abundance of steps that were put in place to help control trail erosion.

Seasons: All

In winter the snow can be quite deep along the trail, especially above the treeline.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderately Difficult

Elevation Change: None to Significant

Route Finding: Easy

Trail Condition: Good

Getting There:

This trail is close to downtown. Follow Baranof Street up past Market Center and the Presbyterian Church to where it ends at a cememtary. The trailhead has a small parking lot near the cemetary.

Things to See

Muskeg habitat along the early part of the trail.
Excellent views from Gavan Ridge.

Destinations

Destination	Distance (one way/round trip) Time (one way/round trip)
Muskeg Viewpoint	.05 miles/.1 miles 2-5 minutes/5-10 minutes
Overlook	1.5 miles/3 miles 35 minutes-1.5 hours/1.5-3 hours
Gavan Ridge	2 miles/4 miles 45 minutes-2 hours/2-4 hours
Summit	3.5 miles/7 miles 1.5-3 hours/3-6 hours
Harbor-Gavan Shelter	3.75 miles/7.5 miles 2-4 hours/4-8 hours
Harbor Mountain Parking Lot	6.25 miles 4-8 hours

Connecting Trails

Harbor Mountain Trail

Sitka Cross Trail