Alaska Native Culture Itinerary: Inside Passage
Take a Cultural Journey through Tlingit, Haida, & Tsimshian Lands
Take a Cultural Journey through Tlingit, Haida, & Tsimshian Lands
About the Author: Samantha Phillips is Tlingit - Kaagwaantaan, Eagle/Brown Bear of Klukwan and grew up in Yakutat. As a young woman she learned of her Tlingit grandmother’s suffering of severe discrimination and mistreatment while attending a residential boarding school. Publicly speaking out about what her grandmother endured served as a powerful lesson to Samantha that Indigenous voices need to be heard. By focusing on making a difference, she has passionately poured her storytelling abilities into various writing pursuits. When she is not writing in her current home in Madison, Alabama, Samantha can be found making memories with her life’s work—her six children.
The Inside Passage, a ribbon of water winding through the heart of Southeast Alaska, is a place where wilderness meets wonder. Towering glaciers carve their way down emerald mountains, mist dances upon the water, and wildlife thrives in an environment of breathtaking and rugged beauty. Yet, nestled amongst this natural splendor lies another kind of treasure – the vibrant cultures of our Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people.
For millennia, our communities have called the Inside Passage home, our traditions and stories deeply woven into the fabric of the land. This itinerary is designed to be your guide, leading you on a journey to behold the cultural gems that illuminate the soul of Southeast Alaska.
Day 1: Ketchikan
Tlingit: Kichx̱áan, meaning “Thundering Wings of an Eagle”
Our journey begins in Ketchikan, accessible by plane, cruise ship, or ferry. We start at the Totem Heritage Center, boasting the largest collection of unrestored 19th-century totem poles in the world. This fascinating museum offers a deeper dive into Tlingit culture through displays of intricate baskets, masks, and traditional regalia. Next, embark on a walking tour led by a Tlingit guide with Authentic Ketchikan Native Tours. Expect a fun and informative experience, where the guide's humor brings Alaska Native values to life.
Wrap up the day with an excursion offered by Wildlife Sanctuary and Totem Park Tour. Witness majestic wildlife at the Alaska Wildlife Sanctuary, followed by a guided forest walk. Spot eagles and bears from viewing decks, explore wetlands teeming with birdlife, and gain insights into the area's diverse ecosystems. The tour delves deeper into Alaska's history with a visit to a historic sawmill and a chance to witness a Tlingit artist carving a totem.
Day 2: Saxman Village
Tlingit: T'èesh Ḵwáan Xagu, meaning “Tanning Frame Tribe's Sand Beach”
Venture to Saxman Village, a two-mile journey south of Ketchikan. Upon arrival, expect a warm welcome in Tlingit and a chance to step inside the magnificent Beaver Clan House. Here, witness a captivating performance by the Cape Fox Dancers, their intricate regalia and energetic movements bringing history to life. Learn about the significance of canoes to the Tlingit people at Canoe Canopy, and explore the renowned Totem Park, where 25 authentically carved totems stand as silent storytellers. Back in Ketchikan, conclude the day with a delicious meal featuring fresh seafood and Alaska Native specialties, like reindeer sausage and bison burgers, at Cape Fox Lodge.
Day 3: Wrangell
Tlingit: Ḵaachx̱ana.áakʼw, meaning "Little Lake Accessible to People"
Take a short flight to Wrangell, a charming island town rich in Haida heritage. Explore the Wrangell Museum, home to an impressive collection of Haida artifacts, and participate in a cultural demonstration led by a local Haida artist. Witness the creation of traditional art forms, such as carving or crafting intricate basketry.
Day 4: Sitka
Tlingit: Sheetʼká, meaning "People on the Outside of Baranof Island"
Travel to Sitka, a beautiful sea town with a rich history of fishing, hunting, and cultural exchange for the Tlingit people. Take a glimpse into Alaska's marine life at the Sitka Sound Science Center, check out bears up close at the Fortress of the Bear, then explore Sitka National Historical Park's totem poles, expertly carved testaments to Tlingit history and clan identification. Stand in awe of the Sheldon Jackson Museum's collection of Tlingit artifacts before visiting the Sheet'ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Community House and witnessing a performance of traditional dances.
Day 5: Juneau
Tlingit: Dzántik'i Héeni, meaning "Base of the Flounder's River"
Fly to Juneau, the capital of Alaska. Delve into Tlingit culture at the Sealaska Heritage Institute, where you can view art exhibits, witness traditional dance performances, and browse a gift shop featuring Alaska Native art and crafts. Plan your trip to coincide with Celebration, a biannual event showcasing the largest gathering of Southeast Alaska Natives. Witness traditional dancing, fashion shows, art exhibits, and enjoy cultural foods during this vibrant celebration.
Explore Juneau's waterfront, Kootéeyaa Deiyí, to experience the newly erected totem poles carved by Alaska Native master artists. Embark on a whale watching tour with Allen Marine Tours, an Alaska Native-owned company, to witness humpback whales and learn about their significance to Tlingit culture.
Day 6: Haines
Tlingit: Dei-shu, meaning “The End of the Trail” and Klukwan, Tlingit: Tlakw Aan, meaning "Eternal Village"
Our journey concludes with a scenic flight to Haines, home to the Chilkat Tlingit people. Explore the Haines Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, a haven for these majestic birds, and learn about their cultural significance. Immerse yourself in the living art and culture of the Tlingit people at the Haines Indian Arts Center. Witness carving demonstrations, delve into the history of totem pole carving with director Lee Heinmiller, and explore the captivating world of Tlingit regalia, dance, and storytelling.
The grand finale awaits in Klukwan, an ancient Chilkat Tlingit village of about 90 people, located 22 miles from Haines. Skagway Excursions offers a Klukwan Native Culture Experience, where you will gain intimate exposure to the Chilkat people. Enjoy an up close and personal glimpse into traditional Tlingit lifestyle at the Traditional Knowledge Camp. The visit includes a look into a traditional smokehouse, a tour of their 37 foot dug-out “Heen Yakgaheiyagoo Yaakw” (Water Spirit Canoe) and caps off at the “Kaaya Haayi Hit,” a Tlingit plank style, clan house, where presenters will share stories and traditional songs.
New! Alaska Native Culture Guide
Immerse yourself in Alaska Native heritage and learn how to experience the living culture of the state's Indigenous peoples.