Totem Bight State Historical Park
Explore 14 totem poles and a clan house at this historical park, showcasing Tlingit and Haida heritage amidst rainforest beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Totem Bight State Historical Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 14 totem poles and a clan house at this historical park, showcasing Tlingit and Haida heritage amidst rainforest beauty.
"A fantastic place to experience totems firsthand, filled with history and natural beauty."
🎯 Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a knowledgeable guide to understand the stories behind the totems.
🚌 Public Bus Access
Take the public bus from downtown Ketchikan for an affordable and convenient trip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Replica Tlingit Clan House
Totem Bight State Historical Park
Step inside a meticulously reconstructed clan house, authentic to its original 4-foot entrance height.
Collection of Totem Poles
Totem Bight State Historical Park
Marvel at 14 full-size, hand-carved totem poles telling stories of Tlingit and Haida heritage.
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Lush Rainforest Setting
Totem Bight State Historical Park
Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Tongass Narrows coastline and the surrounding rainforest.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Getting to Totem Bight
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a knowledgeable guide to understand the stories behind the totems.
🚌 Public Bus Access
Take the public bus from downtown Ketchikan for an affordable and convenient trip.
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings and the natural beauty for stunning photos.
🌧️ Be Prepared for Rain
Alaska's rainforest means rain is common; pack accordingly for a comfortable visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Guided Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit with a knowledgeable guide to understand the stories behind the totems.
🚌 Public Bus Access
Take the public bus from downtown Ketchikan for an affordable and convenient trip.
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings and the natural beauty for stunning photos.
🌧️ Be Prepared for Rain
Alaska's rainforest means rain is common; pack accordingly for a comfortable visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Totem Bight State Historical Park for its historical significance, the impressive collection of totem poles, and the unique clan house. The natural beauty of the park and the opportunity to learn about Tlingit and Haida culture are frequently highlighted. Some visitors note that a guided tour greatly enhances the experience, while others appreciate the ability to explore independently.
"Fantastic place to get to experience Totems first hand. Place is beautiful and filled with history. Highly recommend having a guided tour to really experience everything there is to learn about. Wasn't crowded and we were blessed with extremely rare and Sunny day!"
FallenForever
"Awesome experience with a well knowledged tour guide who has lived in the area for around 20 years. Clark's Custom Island Tours on Viator.com was fantastic, this was just one of the many stops we made today on the tour. Very cool to learn about how everything was made and what the totem poles actually mean, cause they are really not meant to just be decorative."
Chris Ashley
"What are great place to visit. We had only a short time there as part of a tour but would go back without the tour. Neat place."
Robert Hatfield
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Totem Bight State Historical Park is located about 10 miles north of Ketchikan. You can reach it by car, taxi, or the local public bus system. Many visitors also arrive via guided tours, which often include transportation. The bus ride typically takes around 25-30 minutes.
Yes, some visitors arrive by boat, especially those on cruises that offer excursions to the park. It's a scenic way to approach the historical site.
Cruise passengers often opt for guided tours that include transportation to Totem Bight, as it's a convenient way to maximize limited port time and gain historical insights. Alternatively, the public bus or a taxi are good options.
Totem Bight State Historical Park is approximately 10 miles north of downtown Ketchikan. The drive or bus ride usually takes about 25-30 minutes.
Yes, you can drive to Totem Bight State Historical Park. There is parking available for visitors who choose to travel by personal vehicle or rental car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Totem Bight State Historical Park offers free admission, making it an accessible cultural experience for all visitors.
As a state historical park, Totem Bight is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check with the Alaska State Parks system for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
No advance booking is required for general entry to Totem Bight State Historical Park, as admission is free. However, if you plan to join a specific guided tour, booking that tour in advance is recommended.
While the park itself has free admission, you may incur costs for transportation (bus fare, taxi, tour) or if you choose to purchase souvenirs or additional services.
Absolutely! You can visit Totem Bight State Historical Park independently via public bus, taxi, or car. While tours offer insights, exploring on your own allows for a more personal experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Totem Bight, you can explore 14 replica totem poles, a reconstructed Tlingit clan house, and enjoy the beautiful rainforest and coastal scenery. It's a great place for history and nature lovers.
A visit to Totem Bight can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest level and whether you're on a guided tour. This allows time to explore the totems, clan house, and enjoy the surroundings.
Basic facilities like restrooms are typically available at state parks. It's recommended to check the official Alaska State Parks website for the most current information on amenities.
Yes, Totem Bight is a photographer's dream! The totem poles, clan house, and the lush natural environment offer numerous opportunities for stunning shots.
The totem poles at Totem Bight are not just decorative; they are storytelling artworks that represent clan histories, legends, and important events of the Tlingit and Haida people.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around the totem poles and the clan house offer iconic photo opportunities. The coastal views and the dense rainforest provide beautiful backdrops.
Yes, the totem poles are well-preserved and displayed, making them excellent subjects for photography. Consider the lighting, especially during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the totems and the surrounding landscape.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, it's always wise to be respectful of the cultural significance of the site and avoid intrusive photography, especially if there are any cultural demonstrations or events.
Drone usage is often restricted in state and national parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the official Alaska State Parks regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The relatively short visit time (1-2 hours) is ideal for younger attention spans. If possible, opt for a guided tour that can make the history more accessible and entertaining for children.
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
Recommendations: Many cruise lines offer guided tours to Totem Bight, which are highly recommended for their informative commentary and efficient use of time. If visiting independently, factor in transportation time and costs.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
+1Budget tips: Utilize the public bus system for transportation from Ketchikan. Pack your own lunch and water to save on dining costs. The park offers a rich experience without requiring expensive tour packages.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and Stories of Totem Poles
+1Visitors can learn about the symbolism behind the figures, such as ravens, bears, eagles, and wolves, and how they connect to the spiritual beliefs and social structures of the Tlingit and Haida peoples. A guided tour can significantly deepen your understanding, as guides often share local knowledge and stories passed down through generations.
Respectful observation is key when viewing these cultural artifacts. Remember that they are sacred to the indigenous communities and are not merely decorative. The park's setting, with its lush rainforest and coastal views, further enhances the experience, providing a glimpse into the environment that shaped these traditions.
+1Exploring the Clan House
Stepping inside the clan house provides a sense of the communal living arrangements and the importance of shared spaces in traditional Tlingit culture. While the interior may be sparsely furnished, its architecture and scale speak volumes about the community's social organization and daily life. It's a powerful reminder of the ingenuity and resilience of the indigenous peoples of Southeast Alaska.
Experiencing the clan house is an integral part of understanding the historical context of the totem poles. The two structures are intrinsically linked, representing the spiritual and social fabric of the communities that created them. The park's rangers or guides can offer further insights into the clan house's significance and its role in Tlingit society.
Ketchikan's Totem Pole Heritage
Many of the totem poles found in Ketchikan, including those at Totem Bight, are replicas or restorations of poles that were originally erected in village sites. These efforts ensure that the stories and traditions are preserved and shared with future generations. The park's location, nestled within the Tongass National Forest, further emphasizes the deep connection between the indigenous cultures and their natural environment.
Understanding Ketchikan's totem pole history involves recognizing the collaborative efforts between tribal communities and park services to maintain and interpret these cultural treasures. Visiting Totem Bight offers a direct encounter with this living history, providing a unique educational and cultural experience.
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Social
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