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Point Barrow, Alaska: Northernmost Totem Pole in the World

At the tippy-top of frosty Alaska, a totem pole stands on a US Air Force Base. The pole is topped with a toilet bowl, commemorating the first flush toilet in this part of Alaska.

Address:
Stevenson St., Point Barrow, AK
Directions:
Four miles northeast of Utqiagvik, along the beach road, on the inland side. Turn right at the building complex which includes a plethora or radar domes and satellite receivers.
Hours:
Restricted access on military base. Local health policies may affect hours and access.
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Visitor Tips and News About Northernmost Totem Pole in the World

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Northernmost Totem Pole in the World

Unfortunately, you can't get close to this attraction because it is on restricted government property. A pass from the commander is required to get on base. There are several other things in town photo op worthy!

[Scott, 04/28/2013]
Northernmost Totem Pole

On top of the totem pole is a toilet, not a GPS device.

Also...Eskimos don't make totem poles -- it was painted by the Navy guys who put it up.

[Jackie, 07/13/2009]

Totem pole stands among military radar dishes and microwave towers.

Northernmost Totem Pole in the World

A totem pole located at the Point Barrow, AK LRRS facility (US Air Force) declares it to be the location of the northernmost totem pole in the world. A fact perhaps proven by the GPS receiver situated atop the totem. Point Barrow is the northernmost inhabited place in the United states, perhaps making this the northernmost roadside attraction. We were pleased to note that in the adjacent sign, which gave distances to various places (a common practice in Barrow since nothing is close), the 2,815 mile distance to Wall Drug was deemed worthy of inclusion.

[Wade H. Jeffrey, PhD, 09/01/2003]

July 2005 - Not sure what to make of this update from Jeff Nicholls: "I was on site at the LRRS at Point Barrow, I need to clarify that the object on top of the totem is not a GPS antenna, it's a head from a ship." Northernmost Bathroom Facility Suspended on a Pole?


Nearby Offbeat Places

Whale Ribs Photo OpportunityWhale Ribs Photo Opportunity, Utqiagvik, AK - 5 mi.

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