  
  —°F

DISCOVER WRANGELL | STATE HISTORIC PARK

PETROGLYPH
BEACH

Accessible boardwalk and viewing deck, beach reached from the deck

CARVINGS

40+ PETROGLYPHS

Highest concentration in Southeast Alaska

WHERE

Half a mile from the ferry terminal

ACCESS

WHERE TO GO

Low tide. Check the tide before heading over.

SOME OF THE FINEST SURVIVING EXAMPLES OF ANCIENT NATIVE ARTISTIC EXPRESSION IN SOUTHEAST ALASKA

The term “petroglyph” is derived from the Greek words “petra” (rock) and “glyphe” (carving), perfectly describing these intricate designs and symbols meticulously carved into rocks. Typically found on shores just above or below the high tide line, petroglyphs are often located near important salmon streams, habitation sites, or historic waypoints.

40+

2000

2 1/2

PETROGLYPHS ON THE BEACH

DESIGNATED A STATE HISTORIC PARK

CARVINGS REDISCOVERED DURING CONSTRUCTION

MILE FROM THE FERRY TERMINAL

THE PARK

Wrangell’s Petroglyph Beach boasts the highest concentration of petroglyphs in Southeast Alaska and offers easy access for exploration. In 2000, the beach was designated a State Historic Park, complete with an accessible boardwalk and a viewing deck overlooking Petroglyph Beach, the Stikine River, and Zimovia Straits. Replicas of several petroglyph designs are displayed on the deck, allowing visitors to make rubbings, while the beach itself is directly accessible from the deck overlook.

During the construction of the interpretive facility, two previously unknown petroglyphs were unearthed, one of which had long been thought lost. This rediscovery was celebrated by the local Tlingit community and Wrangell residents alike.

WHAT THEY MEAN

Although the true intent and meaning of these petroglyphs remain a mystery, they are believed to serve various purposes, from marking significant events, victories, or territorial claims to being used in religious or shamanistic rituals. Alternatively, they may simply be the artistic expressions of the Tlingit or visiting Tsimshian people.

FINDING THEM

Petroglyph Beach is located just half a mile from the Wrangell ferry terminal, making it easily accessible to visitors. Most of the iconic symbols are found to the right, toward a tidal outcropping, as you step onto the sand. With over 40 petroglyphs to discover, including the unique whale petroglyph, visitors are encouraged to document their experience with photographs and step lightly to help preserve this cultural treasure.

More of the beach is exposed at low tide. Check the tide before heading over.

LEAVE THEM UNTOUCHED

While the petroglyph replicas on the deck are available for rubbings, extensive research has shown that constant rubbing of the original petroglyphs accelerates their deterioration. We ask that you respect these ancient carvings by leaving them untouched, allowing future generations to appreciate this glimpse into the past.