Best Things to Do in Klawock, Alaska: From Totem Traditions to Wild Coastal Adventures

Set along the western shores of Prince of Wales Island, Klawock is one of Alaska’s oldest Native settlements and home to the first salmon cannery in the state. This small but culturally rich community offers a glimpse into Tlingit heritage, surrounded by pristine forest and calm waterways that reflect the timeless beauty of Southeast Alaska. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Klawock, you’ll find a rewarding mix of Indigenous artistry, natural splendor, and authentic Alaskan character.

1. Visit the Klawock Totem Park

The Klawock Totem Park is the crown jewel of this coastal community and one of the top things to do in Klawock. Home to one of Alaska’s largest collections of standing totems, the park features 21 poles that represent Tlingit clans, legends, and histories. Many of these are replicas of original 19th-century carvings, meticulously restored to preserve their cultural meaning. Walking among these towering figures, set against a backdrop of spruce and cedar, offers a profound connection to Alaska’s Native traditions.

2. Explore the Carving Shed

Just steps from the Totem Park, the Klawock Carving Shed allows visitors to witness artistry in motion. Local carvers continue the centuries-old practice of shaping cedar logs into totems that tell stories of family, heritage, and myth. Watching these artisans at work is one of the most fascinating Klawock excursions, offering insight into the craftsmanship and symbolism that define Tlingit art.

3. Explore the Klawock River and Lake

Flowing from a tranquil lake surrounded by evergreen hills, the Klawock River is the heart of the community’s natural rhythm. In summer, salmon return to its clear waters, drawing bald eagles and the occasional bear to the riverbanks. Walking along the shoreline or paddling across the nearby lake offers peaceful moments to appreciate the pristine wilderness and wildlife that make this region so captivating.

4. Learn Local History at the Klawock Community Center

To understand the roots of this close-knit community, visit the Klawock Community Center, where exhibits highlight the town’s Tlingit heritage, early fishing industry, and cultural preservation. Knowledgeable locals often share personal stories that add depth to your visit, making it one of the most engaging Klawock excursions for travelers seeking cultural context.

5. Embark on a Whale and Marine Mammal Quest

Just offshore, the waters surrounding Prince of Wales Island are alive with marine life. A Whale and Marine Mammal Quest offers a chance to see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and porpoises in their natural habitat. With expert naturalists guiding the journey, this is one of the most fun things to do in Klawock, especially for those who dream of witnessing Alaska’s wildlife up close.

6. Go Wildlife Watching and Photography

The untouched wilderness around Klawock is home to black bears, Sitka deer, eagles, and a variety of seabirds. Guided nature walks and photography tours take you through lush rainforest and along coastal trails, where you can capture some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife in its natural habitat. With its rich biodiversity and peaceful setting, this experience embodies the wild beauty of Prince of Wales Island.

7. Enjoy a Day of Fishing

For anglers, few places rival the waters of Klawock. Whether casting a line from the riverbanks or venturing offshore on a fishing charter, you’ll find salmon, halibut, and trout in abundance. Local guides share techniques and stories that make each outing more memorable. Bringing back your own catch — and perhaps enjoying it fresh that evening — is one of the most satisfying and fun things to do in Klawock.

8. Kayak Along the Coast

Klawock’s position on Prince of Wales Island makes it ideal for exploring by water. Gliding through calm coastal channels reveals secluded coves, distant islands, and perhaps a glimpse of a whale breaching on the horizon. These serene marine adventures — whether by boat or kayak — are among the most fun things to do in Klawock, perfectly capturing the quiet grandeur of Alaska’s Inside Passage.

What to Do in Klawock, Alaska

The best things to do in Klawock include visiting the Klawock Totem Park, kayaking on Klawock Lake, joining a whale and marine mammal quest, and exploring the salmon-filled Klawock River. These experiences blend cultural depth with natural beauty, offering travelers a glimpse into the heart of Alaska’s Indigenous heritage and wild landscapes.

Cruise to Klawock with Silversea

If you want to experience the top things to do in Klawock with ease, consider arriving by cruise. Sailing through the Inside Passage to this historic coastal town offers a breathtaking introduction to Alaska’s Tlingit heritage and natural splendor. Curated shore experiences reveal the region’s most meaningful highlights — from totem artistry and wildlife viewing to guided cultural encounters. Discover a destination where history, artistry, and nature intertwine — explore Silversea’s cruises to Klawock and uncover one of Alaska’s most authentic ports of call.