Tallest Totem, Small Town Vibes: The McKinleyville Totem Pole That'll Blow Your Mind

đŸȘ¶ Tallest Totem, Small Town Vibes: The McKinleyville Totem Pole That'll Blow Your Mind

June 28, 2025‱2 min read

Alright y’all, if you think you've seen tall... think taller. Welcome to McKinleyville, home to not just chill coastal views and laid-back Humboldt energy, but also the tallest totem pole in the continental United States—yep, you heard that right. This bad boy stands at a sky-scraping 160 feet, hand-carved and totally jaw-dropping, right in the heart of Pierson Park. Whether you're rolling through on a scenic drive or posted up in town for a few days, this is one of those “you gotta see it to believe it” kind of stops. And no, it’s not just some big stick—this totem pole is packed with local history, artistry, and some serious cultural weight

đŸȘ”Built in 1962 by local loggers and craftsmen, this totem pole was made from one single redwood tree trunk and hoisted up as part of a wild community celebration involving helicopters, ropes, and whole-lotta teamwork
🎹Carved by artists Duane Pasco and Victor Galindo, the totem features majestic animals, mythical figures, and symbols that nod to the region’s Indigenous roots and logging legacy
📾Photo-worthy doesn’t even begin to describe it—this thing is Insta-gold from every angle and makes for the kind of pic that makes your friends go, “Wait
 where even is that?”
đŸŒČLocated in Pierson Park, you’ll find the totem standing tall among baseball fields, picnic areas, and family-friendly walking paths—so it’s not just a solo stop, it’s a whole local experience
🎡Come through during Pony Express Days in June and you’ll see this area come alive with music, food, and parades—it’s small-town Americana with Humboldt flavor

📍What’s nearby that adds to the adventure?

  • ☕Raven’s Brew Coffee – just a short drive away, quirky, artsy, and caffeinated—everything you want in a Humboldt coffeehouse

  • đŸ„ȘSix Rivers Brewery – grab a bite and a pint with local flavors and the friendliest crew in town

  • 🌊Clam Beach – if you’re craving that salty ocean air after taking in the towering totem, it’s just a quick cruise west

  • đŸš¶â€â™‚ïžHammond Trail – wanna stretch those legs? This coastal trail connects directly from town and gives you breezy views, pine-scented air, and pure NorCal vibes

👀Local Tip: If you catch a foggy morning (which is, like, most mornings around here), the top of the totem sometimes disappears into the mist like it’s reaching into another dimension. Kinda mystical, kinda eerie, 100% unforgettable

🚗 Wanna See It All Without the Hassle?

Ready to explore Arcata, McKinleyville, and beyond? Don’t let sketchy rides or slow buses cramp your vibe. Secure your rental car today with Humboldt Rental Cars at Humboldt Rental Cars or give us a ring at +1 707-335-2010. From totems to trails, we’ll get you there with ease and style. Your Humboldt adventure starts in the driver’s seat!



car rental near Willow Creek CAcar rental near Blue Lake CAcar rental near Fortuna CAcar rental near Trinidad CAcar rental for Redwood CoastHumboldt County road trip rentalslocal car rental Humboldtreliable car rental McKinleyvilleNorthern California car rental dealscoastal car rentals McKinleyvillescenic drives Humboldt CountyCal Poly Humboldt car rentalscar rental for Humboldt State UniversityRedwood National Park car rentalClam Beach car rentalscar rental near Eureka CAcar rental near Arcata CAHumboldt travel car hirebest car rental McKinleyvillerent a car in McKinleyvilleMcKinleyville airport car rentalHumboldt County vehicle rentalsSUV rentals McKinleyville
Back to Blog

Have a question for us?

Contact Us

Why Choose Us!

Situated close to Cal Poly Humboldt, we’re a trusted choice for parents visiting their college students and for anyone seeking a hassle-free way to explore the area. As a locally owned business, we’re dedicated to providing personalized service and a welcoming touch that you won’t find with national chains.

Let us help you make the most of your time in Humboldt County—your adventure starts here!

Want to book from us?

Avoid the lengthy queues and hassle of car rentals. Opt for our service, and your luxury vehicle will be delivered directly to your chosen location, the most convenient for you.

Humboldt Rental Cars, All Rights Reserved, 2025