Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Totem Bight State Historical Park, located approximately 16 miles north of Ketchikan, Alaska, protects an important collection of Native Alaskan cultural artifacts and natural landscapes along a peaceful coastal area. The park covers about 33 acres, featuring a striking array of totem poles and a replica clan house built in the traditional Tlingit style. These totem poles were restored or recreated by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s, preserving indigenous art and heritage for visitors to learn about. The park's location next to Tongass National Forest offers views of thick temperate rainforest interspersed with coastal wetlands and tidal waters. Visitors can explore paved trails winding through the park grounds, where they encounter interpretive panels explaining the cultural significance of the totems and the history of the Tlingit people. Totem Bight offers a quiet, accessible outdoor experience combining cultural education with the opportunity to enjoy Alaskan forest ecosystems and bird watching. Notable landmarks include the massive carved totem poles with rich symbolism and the clan house with traditional cedar plank construction. The park attracts visitors looking to experience Alaska’s Native heritage in a serene natural setting just a short drive from Ketchikan.
