This Bizarre Beach In Alaska Is Too Weird For Words

This strange beach in Alaska has the highest concentration of petroglyphs in the world, which justifies its name, Petroglyph Beach. The small chunk of coastline in Wrangell Alaska is home to roughly 40 petroglyphs and became a state historic park in 2000. The petroglyphs can mean many things, from land markers and hunting sights, to religious symbols and markings, but unfortunately there is no true way of knowing for sure what these historic etchings may mean. To find out more about Petroglyph Beach and taking a trip there just check out the pictures and information below!

Brewbooks | Flickr

The petroglyphs are thought to be the ancient work of ancestors from the Tlingit tribe, but there is no definitive proof. Of course, there are many speculations about the meaning behind these etches and carvings in stone. From land markers at the base of fishing streams and hunting grounds, to symbols giving thanks to the gods for bringing salmon up stream, there really is no way to determine what the petroglyphs mean just that they strongly resemble Tlingit totemic art.

Brewbooks | Flickr

When you visit the beach you won't actually be able to walk down on the beach since the bedrock and boulders that the petroglyphs are craved in can easily be damaged. Instead, there is a walkway leading down to the water overlooking the beach. There are a few replicas at the end of the walkway for people to make rubbings on.

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Brewbooks | Flickr

The bedrock and boulders that the petroglyphs are carved into is metamorphic and easily manipulated. The petroglyphs are located mid-way between high and low tide.

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Brewbooks | Flickr

Believe it or not, these petroglyphs are not of much concern to archaeologists considering there is no real way to speculate their meanings or indications. The lack of clarity make these unique historical carvings purely artistic and highly intriguing to visitors of Petroglyph Beach.

Brewbooks | Flickr

Andrew E. Russell | Flickr

Petroglyph Beach is just a mile out of the town of Wrangell. The site is over 8,000 years old and is protected by federal and state antiquity laws.

Have you ever visited this beach outside of Wrangell, Alaska? Was is as cool as it sounds? Share your experiences with us in the comments!