Day 1: STEAM in the PARK Arrives in Sitka

What a start to our second-to-last camp of the summer! Every single camper made it to Sitka within 45 minutes of the planned arrival time—a small miracle when planes, ferries, and island weather are in the mix. It felt like the universe was cheering us on as we gathered together for this adventure.

In Sitka, walking is the way to travel. Though it holds the title of the largest city in the world by land area (4,815 square miles), there are only about 14 miles of paved road. That means our feet—and maybe a pair of sturdy shoes—are the best transportation we’ve got. Everywhere you turn here, it feels like the mountains tumble straight into the sea, and the rainforest breathes with life.

We are calling the historic Sheldon Jackson Campus our home this week, the same grounds where the Sitka Fine Arts Camp welcomes artists from around the world each summer. The place hums with history and creativity, and it’s the perfect backdrop for our time together.

Already today, wildlife has made its presence known. Bald eagles swooped overhead as if to welcome us. Sea otters bobbed in the harbor, cracking open shellfish with ease. We’ve spotted deer, ravens, and even caught glimpses of salmon running through the streams. On our wish list for the week? Bears, sea lions, and maybe—if luck smiles on us—the shimmering curtain of the Northern Lights. With tonight’s forecast calling for clear skies, we’re keeping our hopes high.

This is just the beginning. Tomorrow, we dive into the world of bears and step foot in our national park site here in Sitka. Adventure, science, and stories are waiting for us in every corner of this island.

Sitka, we’re ready.