In recent history, G̱aw Tlagée the land around Masset Inlet was a busy metropolitan trading centre, crowded with canoe traffic. A rich natural ecosystem supported 11 Haida village sites found in and around Gaw Tlagee. Today the modern village of G̱aw Tlagée sprawls across three of these, including Gad Gaywáas at its north end, Ts’ágwaals towards its centre, and K’áayang towards its south. Haida master carvers continue to fill G̱aw Tlagée’s skies with gyaa’ang | monumental columns, as they have since the arrival of kaaydaay | trees up to 14,500 years ago. Please show respect to these living community members.
G̱aw Tlagée | Old Masset
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![Colorful totem pole with carved figures stands prominently in front of a wooden building under a clear blue sky, with a few people around for scale.]()
Explore
Visitors will find the village filled with woven, painted, carved, engraved, and hammered masterpieces. A stop at the gift shop will provide a glimpse into the diverse mediums Haida have mastered. You might be fortunate to arrive in time for one of many ceremonies open to visitors, where you could join the community for dinner. A boat launch is available should you prefer to catch your own meal. You will find a gas station in town on Guud K'yuuwaas | Eagle Avenue.
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![Interior of a wooden cabin featuring large windows with a waterfront view. The room is decorated with Native-inspired art, textiles on display racks, a mannequin with a shawl, and a carved mask on the wall above. The floor is wooden, adding to the rustic ambiance.]()
Art
Visit Gin Kuyaas Art Studio & Gifts for diverse selection of authentic Haida artwork, clothing, and gift items all housed inside a newly-built traditional style longhouse. Or stop by Dragonfly House and meet Roberta who sells beautiful cedar bark weaved items and abalone buttons among other handmade creations.
Camping in ̱gaw tlagée
There is no camping permitted within G̱aw Tlagée but you can stay at April White's Raven House.
Experience Haida hospitality in April’s, quaint, scenic bed and breakfast. The guesthouse is located steps from the beach in the Haida village where guests will be greeted with breathtaking views of the ocean and the abundant wildlife that inhabit its shores. Across the road is the Tluu Xaada Nee traditional longhouse and the White family carving shed where dedicated carvers create totem poles and canoes carved from monumental cedars.
Hiking in ̱gaw tlagée
Take a stroll along the walking path that connects Masset and G̱aw Tlagée.
Don’t Miss
Stop by Tluu Xaada Naay Canoe Peoples House for a tour of the beautiful facility and carving shed (please contact in advance for tours at 250-626-5250).
Spend some time browsing the incredible offerings available at Gin Kuyaas Haida Art Studio and Gifts.
In the summer, cultural dinners and evening performance are offered by the Davidson Descendants.
Check out Sarah’s Haida Arts and Jewellery for authentic artworks, gift cards, books, prints, and more!