ShoreTrips says...

We saw totem poles throughout our trip to Alaska. Generally, they are carved from the tall red cedar trees that are abundant in this area. We saw them in the front yards of homes, serving as doorways, supporting roof beams, and as freestanding memorial poles placed in front of houses to honor deceased chiefs.

This trip will take you to the outskirts of Ketchikan, as Totem Bight is a lovely 15 minutes from downtown. It was originally the site of a traditional fishing camp and has proven to be a peaceful spot on the edge of Tongass Narrows. The short walk through the woods to the location of the totems provides both an aesthetic and educational experience. Your guide will familiarize you with the botanical examples of North Pacific coast greens that flourish here.

The 14 beautifully colored, culturally significant totem poles that are on display today were recovered from overgrown forests and repaired or duplicated by skilled carvers using handmade tools. There is also a community house (also called a clanhouse) on site at Totem Bight State Historical Park, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

Back in Ketchikan, you'll tour around town, visiting local attractions and learning about the history and culture of the first city on the Inside Passage.

This memorable trip will take you on a journey into the past.