The rugged lands of Northern BC have a rich and diverse First Nations history. The totem poles of the north coast are the most famous symbol of the Aboriginal culture, but many spectacular First Nations attractions are located in the region. Art, culture and heritage sites exist in the same natural settings where First Nations have lived for thousands of years.
Cultural sites in Northern BC have drawn worldwide interest – the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site, with more than 500 archeology exploration areas, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
View impressive carvings by renowned Haida artists like Bill Reid and Robert Davidson, or tour the large collection of totem poles in the villages of the Kispiox Valley. The ‘Ksan Historical Village, Nass Valley and Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Park all highlight Aboriginal culture in its natural surroundings.
Tour museums with stunning displays of Aboriginal art and prehistoric artifacts, or see totem poles that have been standing for more than 100 years. Walk through a restored historical village for a glimpse into the traditional life of the areas First Nations or explore ancient pictographs and archaeological sites with a First Nations guide.
Haida Heritage Centre
Located in Skidegate, the 4,924m sq/53,000ft sq Haida Heritage Centre at Kaay Llnagaay on Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands) showcases the unique art and history of the Haida Nation, celebrating a living culture dating back over 12,000 years.
Six monumental cedar totem poles carved by Haida artists stand in front of a row of longhouses, which span the length of the beach and are connected by interior walkways and atrium space.
Highlights of the centre include the Haida Gwaii Museum and the Canoe House, where Bill Reid’s famous war canoe Loo Taas (“Wave Eater”) can be seen. The sleek, majestic cedar canoes beautifully carved by Haida artisans were an integral part of Haida culture and were used for travelling, trade and war.
The centre also features the Bill Reid Teaching Centre, where master carvers nurture future artists and designers; a Carving House where Haida carvers can be viewed working on canoes and totems; a performing house; gift shop and a small café.
The mandatory information and orientation session for visitors to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site is also available at the centre.
The Queen Charlotte Islands are accessed via a seven-hour ferry ride from Prince Rupert. Air service is also available from Vancouver and Prince Rupert.
'Ksan Historical Village
‘Ksan is a replicated ancient Gitxsan village located at the junction of the Babine and Skeena rivers near Hazelton. 'Ksan's seven traditionally styled Northwest Coast longhouses are situated on the grounds of the original Gitxsan village of Gitanmaax.
Walk the grounds of ‘Ksan and explore the museum, totem poles and other unique structures. Take a guided tour through the Frog, Wolf or Fireweed house, each of which represents a different aspect of Gitxsan culture, before tucking into a traditional feast, with the beautiful song and dance of the Gitsxan culture.
A large collection of totems can also be seen in the nearby villages of Kispiox, Kitwanga and Kitwancool.
Museum of Northern BC
Located in Prince Rupert, the Museum of Northern BC houses an impressive collection of Northwest Coast history, art and artifacts. The museum itself is styled after a Northwest Coast Longhouse, with an entrance of massive cedar timbers and contemporary glass art.
Exhibits cover 10,000 years of Northern BC history. Observe some of the best carvers of the Northwest Coast working in the Carving Shed, and enjoy a fantastic view of the harbour from the museum's gallery. The museum features daily tours, hands-on learning centres and performances at the Tsimshian Longhouse.
Guided First Nation Tours
In Prince Rupert, learn the history of the Tsimshian people through a guided tour of ancient village sites. Walk through pristine rainforests, view petroglyphs, and enjoy a feast in a traditional cedar longhouse. Take a canoe tour and interpretive walk and watch for the plentiful wildlife the area is noted for.
Nisga'a Memorial Lava Bed Provincial Park is a 90-minute drive north of Terrace. Arrange for a guided tour at the Nisga'a Visitor Centre to learn about the culture and legends of the people of the Nass Valley and to view the crater and lava flow that destroyed two villages and killed more than 2,000 Nisga’a people.
Totem Pole Tours in Northern BC show some of the world's best examples of this ancient art form. In Kispiox, northwest of the Hazeltons, the totems represent humans, killer whale, wolf, eagle and raven. Gitwangak ("Land of the Rabbits"), is located in the Skeena Valley and was immortalised by BC artist Emily Carr in her rendering of two poles. Totems topped with golden hats are visible from the highway in Kitseguecla, located 20 kilometres northwest of Smithers.
Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site
Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a world-renowned kayaking destination, this park reserve is located in the southern part of the Queen Charlotte Islands. Consisting of 138 islands, it stretches 90km/56mi from north to south. With no roads and few facilities, it is only accessible by boat or chartered aircraft.
Visitors to this remote and wild area will be overwhelmed by the diversity of species on land and sea. An estimated 750,000 seabirds nest along the shoreline from May through August.
Basecamps at the islands' most popular heritage sites are staffed by the Haida Gwaii Watchmen, who help visitors understand Haida culture and at the same time protect the land and culture of the Haida People.
Visitors must register and attend an orientation session at the Haida Heritage Centre in Skidegate prior to arrival. Park reservations are strongly recommended.
Visitors to this area should be prepared for delays as this is a remote wilderness location with variable weather conditions.
Practical Points
- Some locations are open seasonally or by appointment only; always check operating hours in advance.
- Artifacts and regalia have historical and cultural significance. Do not touch items unless a knowledgeable guide or local has given you permission to do so.
- If possible, also ask permission to take photos - some artifacts such as totem poles have interesting stories, and in asking for permission visitors learn more about the local history.
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