Petroglyph Beach

Southeast Alaska


Thought Alaska's history started with the Klondike gold rush? Not so. Historians and anthropologists should home in on this state historic park on Wrangell's north side, where you can see primitive rock carvings believed to be at least 1000 years old, plus a viewing deck with interpretive displays and replicas. Turn right and walk north on the beach about 50yd. Before you reach the wrecked fishing vessels, look for faint carvings on the large rocks, many of them resembling spirals and faces.

There are almost 50 in the area, but the majority are submerged at high tide so check a tide book. Also bring a bottle of water; the carvings are easier to see when wet.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Southeast Alaska attractions

1. Wrangell Museum

0.94 MILES

This impressive museum is what the colorful history and characters of Wrangell deserve. As you stroll through the many rooms, an audio narration…

2. Totem Park

1.04 MILES

In true tribal fashion, Wrangell's totems are left to rot naturally, thus the killer-whale totems in this park are soddenly authentic.

3. Chief Shakes Island

1.26 MILES

The Shakes are a long line of Tlingit leaders (the current leader is Chief Shakes X). They are represented on this tiny, grassy islet slap bang in the…

4. Shakes Community House

1.29 MILES

The cedar wood house in the middle of Chief Shakes Island is a replica of a typical Tlingit chief's house recreated by the Civilian Conservation Corps in…

5. Chief Shakes Grave

1.3 MILES

Of minor interest is the grave of Chief Shakes V (1840–78), the fifth in a long line of Tlingit chiefs (the current chief is Shakes X). It is hidden on a…