Sitka Totem Park

We took advantage of the sunny weather when we first arrived in Sitka and hiked the totem trail.  The locals actually hike and bike everywhere.  This must be a healthy city.  They all have dogs too and were walking them the day we were there.

We have seen a lot of totem carving by now but these were special.  Part of it was the setting.  They are arranged along a shore trail in the woods.
The park is the site of the historic battle for Sitka between the Russians and the Tlingit.  It has a great educational center which covers native life and totem carving.
Looking at the top figure here, I think a Norwegian may have visited too! 

We have a friend who is a carver so we are learning to appreciate the forms, figures, and color arrangements.  Poles tell a story actually from bottom to top.  Low man or creature on the totem pole is really the most important.

This modern pole has a woman on the bottom!!  Woman are rarely carved so this one is special.

 This is a more traditional animal carving in traditional colors.

As an art form, I think they are an acquired taste!