Why Visit Totem Bight State Park in Ketchikan
Ketchikan is home to numerous opportunities to learn about and engage with Tlingit culture, but visiting Totem Bight State Park stands out as a particularly meaningful experience. Upon arrival, the small visitor center offers informative insights into the park and its collection of totem poles and carvings. If you’ve already seen some totem poles on Creek Street, this location provides an even richer collection to explore.
As you walk along the trail, you’ll encounter totems that have fallen and are returning to the earth, followed by an open area where the restoration center is located. Here, Tlingit carvers, including master carvers, work on creating new totem poles or replacing parts of existing ones. The craftsmanship and stories behind these pieces make for a fascinating experience, especially when visiting with children.
Next, the Beaver Clan House and totem pole yard offer a unique glimpse into traditional Tlingit architecture. The clan house itself has been built following centuries-old methods, with modern safety measures in place. The totem yard features a variety of totem poles, each with its own story or interpretation of the figures depicted on them. This area serves as a beautiful representation of what many Southeast Alaskan villages looked like before European influence became widespread.
Tips for a Great Visit to Totem Bight State Park
To fully appreciate Totem Bight State Park, plan to spend a significant portion of your day there. In addition to the totem poles and cultural sites, the park also features a beautiful cove and tide pools, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or a relaxed afternoon. If you have a kayak, consider bringing it along to enjoy the water nearby.
If this is your first visit to a Tlingit cultural site, arriving early in the day can be beneficial. Park rangers and carvers are often present during these hours, offering opportunities to ask questions and gain deeper insight. While there are many exhibit placards and displays throughout the park, take time to read through the information provided, especially regarding the meaning and creation of the totem poles. These sites are among the highlights of visiting Southeast Alaska.
For those arriving via a cruise ship, several transportation options are available to reach Totem Bight. You can hire a ride-sharing service, rent a car for the day, join a guided tour, or use the local bus system. The Silver bus operates between downtown Ketchikan and the park, with multiple departures throughout the day. Be sure to check the schedule in advance to ensure you can catch the return trip, especially if you have a specific time to board your ship.
Being Prepared for a Day at Totem Bight in Ketchikan
Visiting Totem Bight State Park is generally straightforward, with minimal hiking required. Part of the park is indoors, so you can find shelter from the elements if needed. However, it’s still advisable to be prepared for outdoor conditions. The weather at the park may differ from what you experience in downtown Ketchikan, so bring an umbrella or rain jacket just in case.
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance in Alaska, but they are not typically too bad at Totem Bight. A consistent breeze helps keep the air clear, though on still days, you might encounter more mosquitoes around the grassy areas and forests. If you're sensitive to bug bites, consider using insect repellent before your visit.
Don’t forget your camera! The setting and lighting at Totem Bight make it one of the best places to photograph totem poles in Ketchikan. The unique arrangements and natural surroundings provide excellent opportunities for capturing memorable images.
Getting to Totem Bight State Park
There is ample parking available at Totem Bight State Park for those who arrive by car. After parking, you can pay the state park entry fee and begin exploring. If you’re taking the bus, you will still need to pay the entry fee. Since buses do not run frequently, it’s important to check the schedule and plan accordingly, especially if you have a set time to return to your cruise ship.
State Park Operating Info
To help with your planning, here is the essential information for visiting Totem Bight State Park:
- Operating Dates/Season: Year-round, open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The restoration center is unlocked until 5:00 pm during the summer.
- State Parks Phone Number: 907-247-8574
- Park Website: Alaska State Parks
- Park Address: 9883 North Tongass Highway, Ketchikan AK 99901
- Tour Booking Links: Rainforest Walk w/ Totem Bight State Park
More Things to Do in Ketchikan
Ketchikan is a vibrant town with a rich blend of Alaska Native culture and traditional Alaskan elements like salmon, mining, and timber. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there's something for everyone. Consider taking a water tour, exploring different cultural sites, or joining a walking tour to discover the local food scene. The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is another fun activity to enjoy.
While a car is not necessary for exploring downtown, it can provide greater flexibility for hiking and traveling around the island. The town itself is very walkable, and there is a bus system that connects to some farther locations.
Recommendations for Things to Do in Ketchikan
- Totem Bight State Park in Ketchikan: Beautiful Tlingit Carvings on the Water
- Tongass Historical Museum in Ketchikan: An interesting and easy stop
- Totem Heritage Center in Ketchikan: A beautiful and fascinating site
- Exploring Ketchikan’s Creek Street and Salmon Walk
Where to Stay in Ketchikan
If you plan to stay in Ketchikan for several days, there are various hotel options in the downtown area. Some hotels are located just off Creek Street, placing you near one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Alaska. The Cape Fox Lodge, for example, offers a view of downtown and access to the funicular. Many hotels provide shuttle services between the hotel and downtown or the airport ferry terminal, making it easy to get around without a car.
