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Kasaan, Alaska

INCORPORATED 1976
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Our Story

One of two Haida villages in Alaska, Kasaan is on the east side of Prince of Wales Island on Kasaan Bay off Clarence Strait. It is accessible via a 17- mile gravel road that begins near the Goose Creek Bridge on Thorne Bay Highway. The road is one of the island’s Scenic Byways and offers unique views and a turnout at Tolstoi Bay.

Kasaan gets its name from the Tlingit word “Gasa’aan,” meaning “pretty town” or “pretty village.” Haida people migrated north from Haida Gwaii (in present-day British Columbia) and established the village now known as “Old Kasaan” seven miles from today’s Kasaan. In 1892, the Copper Queen mine camp, sawmill, post office and store were built on Kasaan Bay. Haida people relocated to the new village from Old Kasaan. In 1902, a salmon cannery was built in Kasaan and operated off and on until 1953.

A two-third-mile walk on a forest trail leads to Kasaan Totem Historic District and Chief Son-i-Hat Whale House. The Whale House or Naay I’waans, “The Great House,” built around 1880, is the only traditional Haida longhouse standing in the U.S. In the 1930s, totems from the old village were moved to the totem park. Between 1938 and 1940, Civilian Conservation Corps carvers restored the longhouse. Visitors may enjoy the remote setting but should remain mindful of the sacredness of the site. Kavilco Inc. and the Organized Village of Kasaan (OVK) joined to restore Naay I’waans and re-dedicated the site in 2016. Guided tours are available by contacting OVK at 907-542-2230. Kavilco Inc. and OVK have an exclusive agreement for all tours.

The Organized Village of Kasaan owns and operates the Discovery Cabins, year-round two 2-bedroom cabins that sleeps as many as six; by reservation only, 907-542-2230. Kasaan fuel station operates daily; 907-542-2212. The Totem Trail Café is open Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-3pm; call for up-to-date hours, 907-617-9121  For the safety of our residents, visitors are asked not to shoot firearms within the city limits—a large area around the main town site.

Accommodations in Kasaan, Alaska

There are plenty of places to stay in Kasaan, but they can fill up fast especially in the summer months so it’s best to plan ahead. Check out the accommodations available in Kasaan and contact them today to book your trip!
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Discovery Cabins

Beautiful rustic two bedroom cabins with kitchen and a view that overlooks the ocean. Hideaway allows 6 people per cabin. WiFi/Smart Tv's available. The perfect place for a quiet getaway!

Hiking Near Kasaan, Alaska

There’s no better way to start your day in Alaska then by taking a hike. Check out the hiking trails located near Kasaan and add them to your itinerary. You’ll be sure to hear and see a plethora of wildlife and abundant plant life in the forests!
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More difficult

Karta Wilderness Trail

Karta Wilderness Trail / 5.5 mi / 4.5 hours / more difficult / No road access, Kasaan Bay

Distance: 5.5 miles
Average: 4.5 hours

Upcoming Events in Kasaan, Alaska

Check to see what events are happening in Kasaan, Alaska during your visit. Attending local events is a great way to get immersed in the rich culture on Prince of Wales Island. There are many festivals and celebrations planned throughout the year!
  • Start: August 8th, 2024
    End: August 10th, 2024
    Location: Kasaan, Alaska
    Contact: Andy West
    Contact Email: [email protected]
  • Coordinates
    132° 23’ W Longitude — 55° 32’ N Latitude
    Founded
    1902
    Population
    est. 60
    Website
    Phone
    907-542-2212
    Email

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