Gitwinksihlkw
The Village of Gitwinksihlkw is located along the north bank of the Nass River in one of British Columbia’s most dramatic natural settings. For generations, the village was accessible only by its 122-meter suspension footbridge. Today, the scenic and fully restored suspension bridge is still a favorite way to cross Ḵ’alii-Aksim Lisims. A modern vehicle bridge—flanked by four pts’aan—also provides access. Visit the 60-foot pts’aan at the elementary school, which represents elders teaching children, as well as the 55-foot Bear’s Den pole, which represents the history of Gitwinksihlkw. Explore the Saasak’ Hill Trails, a hiking and mountain-bike trail system that leads to a viewing platform with an excellent view of the entire lava beds.
Lax̱g̱alts’ap
The Village of Lax̱g̱alts’ap is where Ḵ’alii-Aksim Lisims meets the sea. Situated on the Nass River estuary, Lax̱g̱alts’ap means “village on village” in honour of the previous Nisg̱a’a communities that have occupied this site over millennia. Traditional smokehouses and drying racks tell the tale of an ancient and enduring reliance on the bounty of the sea. The surrounding waters—spawning grounds of five Pacific salmon species—make this is a world-class fishing destination. Local guide/outfitters know where and when the salmon run. Visit St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, the largest Anglican church on the British Columbia mainland beyond Vancouver. Explore hiking trails that wend their way through towering rainforest.
Gitlax̱t’aamiks
Gitlax̱t’aamiks is the capital of the Nisg̱a‘a Nation and the site of numerous Nisg̱a’a pts’aan—classic Northwest Coast totem poles. The four pts’aan at the entrance to the Community Centre represent the heritage of the four Nisg̱a’a clans (Raven, Killer Whale, Eagle, and Wolf). In carving sheds throughout Nisg̱a’a Lands, Nisg̱a’a carvers are at work on traditional pts’aan, feast bowls, and canoes.
Visit the Gitlax̱t’aamiks Interpretive Centre to plan your visit, find out when and where to see Nisg̱a’a carvers at work, or book a tour of our smokehouses to learn how we traditionally preserve salmon. To learn about the epic struggles and triumph of a self-determined people, book a tour of the soaring Nisg̱a’a Lisims Government building and Wilp Si’ayuukhl Nisg̱a’a (Nisg̱a’a House of Laws)—the Nisg̱a’a legislative assembly. By appointment only. Phone (250) 633-3000.
GING̱OLX
Once known as the Place of Skulls to ward off intruders, the Village of Ging̱olx is now renowned for its warm hospitality. Considered the seafood capital of the Nisg̱a’a Nation, Ging̱olx is located in a dramatic coastal setting on Portland Inlet. It offers rich cultural history, natural beauty, and some of North America’s finest seafood, including crab, halibut, snapper, shellfish, and salmon.
Stroll the Sea Walk, rent or launch your own kayak, take a guided fishing, cultural, or wildlife-viewing tour. Visit Ging̱olx Christ Church, built in 1900, known for its unique history and beautiful stained-glass windows. Hike local trails that lead to spectacular viewpoints. Tour a community smokehouse where visitors can learn from Nisg̱a’a elders how to smoke and sun-dry oolichan, salmon, and sea lion.