Haida & Tlingit Heritage Trail Guide: Totem Pole Capital of the World
Ketchikan, Alaska, is renowned as the “Totem Pole Capital of the World” due to its unique cultural significance as a hub of Haida and Tlingit heritage. This trail guide takes you through the heart of Ketchikan’s Native American culture, highlighting the city’s most iconic sites, including the world’s largest collection of original totem poles, traditional fishing sites, and hiking trails through the Tongass National Forest.
Totem Heritage Center
The Totem Heritage Center is a must-visit destination in Ketchikan, boasting the world’s largest collection of original, unrestored totem poles. The center’s collection, which includes over 30 poles, showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of Haida and Tlingit master carvers. Here, you can witness up close the intricacies of Native American art and learn about the importance of totem poles in Haida and Tlingit culture.
“A totem pole is not just a piece of art, it’s a way of telling a story, a way of communicating with the spirits, and a way of passing down our history and traditions.”
— Ketchikan Indian Community
The Totem Heritage Center also offers guided tours, educational programs, and workshops, where you can learn about the significance of different types of totem poles, such as memorial, mortuary, shame, welcome, and crest poles. Be sure to check out the center’s gift shop, which sells authentic Native American art and craftsmanship.
Saxman Native Village
Saxman Native Village is another iconic destination in Ketchikan, featuring a totem park, carving shed, and Cape Fox dancers. The totem park showcases an impressive collection of totem poles, including a 40-foot-tall pole carved by renowned Haida artist, Nathan Jackson.
“The totem pole is a symbol of our people’s connection to the land, the sea, and the spirits that inhabit them.”
— Cape Fox Corporation
Take a stroll through the village and visit the carving shed, where you can watch Native American artists at work, creating intricate totem poles and other traditional crafts. Be sure to catch a performance by the Cape Fox dancers, who will regale you with traditional Haida and Tlingit dances and songs.
Totem Bight State Historical Park
Totem Bight State Historical Park is a scenic park that features a collection of totem poles, a traditional Tlingit house, and a stunning beach along the Tongass Narrows. Take a leisurely walk through the park and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and water.
“The totem pole is a way of telling a story, a way of passing down our history and traditions to future generations.”
— Tlingit Indian Community
Be sure to check out the park’s gift shop, which sells authentic Native American art and crafts.
Ketchikan Creek
Ketchikan Creek is a traditional fishing site for the Haida and Tlingit peoples, and its salmon run is one of the most impressive in the world. Take a stroll along the creek and watch the salmon leap and splash their way upstream.
“The salmon is a vital part of our culture, providing food, spiritual sustenance, and a connection to the land and our ancestors.”
— Ketchikan Indian Community
Be sure to check out the Creek Street historic district, which features a collection of old buildings and shops that date back to the early 20th century.
Deer Mountain Trail
The Deer Mountain Trail is a challenging hike that takes you through traditional Tlingit territory, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and water. The trail is approximately 5 miles round trip and features a variety of forest interpretation signs that highlight the region’s unique ecosystem.
“The forest is a sacred place, providing us with food, shelter, and spiritual sustenance.”
— Tlingit Indian Community
Be sure to check out the Tongass National Forest’s forest interpretation signs, which provide valuable information about the region’s unique ecosystem and the role of Native American communities in its management.
Tongass Historical Museum
The Tongass Historical Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the region’s rich history and culture. The museum features a collection of exhibits that showcase the history of the Tongass National Forest, including the role of Native American communities in its management.
“The Tongass National Forest is a vital part of our culture, providing us with food, shelter, and spiritual sustenance.”
— Ketchikan Indian Community
Be sure to check out the museum’s gift shop, which sells authentic Native American art and crafts.
Southeast Alaska Discovery Center (USFS)
The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center is a great place to learn about the region’s unique ecosystem and the role of Native American communities in its management. The center features a collection of exhibits that showcase the region’s natural and cultural resources, including a variety of forest interpretation signs.
“The forest is a vital part of our culture, providing us with food, shelter, and spiritual sustenance.”
— Tlingit Indian Community
Be sure to check out the center’s gift shop, which sells authentic Native American art and crafts.
Etiquette
When visiting Native American cultural sites in Ketchikan, it’s essential to be respectful of the land and the people. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
* Do not touch the totem poles. They are sacred objects that hold great cultural significance.
* Respect photography rules. Some sites may have restrictions on photography, so be sure to ask permission before taking pictures.
* Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid littering, and take all trash with you when you leave.
* Learn about the culture. Take the time to learn about the history and traditions of the Haida and Tlingit peoples.
Walking Route
Here is a suggested walking route for exploring Ketchikan’s Native American cultural sites:
1. Totem Heritage Center (1-2 hours)
2. Saxman Native Village (2-3 hours)
3. Totem Bight State Historical Park (1-2 hours)
4. Ketchikan Creek (1-2 hours)
5. Deer Mountain Trail (4-6 hours)
6. Tongass Historical Museum (1-2 hours)
7. Southeast Alaska Discovery Center (USFS) (1-2 hours)
Cruise Ship Visitor Timing Tips
If you’re visiting Ketchikan on a cruise ship, here are some timing tips to keep in mind:
* Plan ahead. Make sure to check the cruise ship schedule and plan your itinerary accordingly.
* Allow plenty of time. Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore each site.
* Be mindful of your schedule. Make sure to check the cruise ship schedule and adjust your itinerary accordingly.
Learn More
For more information about Ketchikan’s Native American cultural sites, please visit the following websites:
* Tongass National Forest
* Cape Fox Corporation
* Ketchikan Indian Community
* Ketchikan Hiking Trails
* Tongass National Forest
* Misty Fjords
Sources
This article was written in consultation with the following sources:
* National Park Service (NPS)
* Tongass National Forest (USFS)
* Ketchikan Indian Community
* Cape Fox Corporation
* Smithsonian Institution
* University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF)
* Alaska Native Knowledge Network (ANKN)