Discovering Totem Poles and Indigenous Art on Vancouver’s North Shore
Vancouver’s North Shore is home to a rich tapestry of Indigenous culture, history, and public art that invites visitors to explore with curiosity and respect. One of the most meaningful ways to connect with this heritage is by seeking out the striking totem poles located throughout the region. These majestic carvings, created by Indigenous artists, each tell a story—honouring family lineage, history, mythology, and the land itself.
In addition to the totem poles found at sites such as Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Park Royal Art Walk and Ambleside Park, the Spirit Trail offers a unique and immersive way to encounter a wide range of public artworks. Stretching across North Vancouver, this multi-use pathway is dotted with murals, carvings, and sculptural works, many of which reflect the cultural traditions and contemporary expressions of Coast Salish artists and communities.
As you walk or cycle the Spirit Trail, keep an eye out for beautifully carved house posts, interpretive panels, and installations that blend natural materials with artistic storytelling. Together, these pieces not only beautify the trail but deepen the understanding of the unceded territory of the Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
Whether you’re visiting the iconic Capilano totems or taking a casual stroll along the waterfront, Vancouver’s North Shore offers a respectful and enriching opportunity to engage with Indigenous art in an open-air gallery that’s as educational as it is inspiring.
1. Whey‑Ah‑Whichen Totem Pole – Cates Park (Tsleil-Waututh Nation)
Located at Whey‑Ah‑Whichen (Cates Park), this totem honors the ancestral village of the Tsleil-Waututh people. It reflects stories of land, sea, and spirit, and stands as a welcoming symbol in this important cultural site.
📍 Cates Park, 415 Cates Park Road, North Vancouver
2. Kwakiutl Bear Pole – Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal
Carved in the 1960s, this Haida-style pole features a powerful bear motif and is part of West Vancouver’s “Route of the Totems.” It represents strength and leadership, greeting visitors as they enter via ferry.
📍 Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal, West Vancouver
3. Sun Totem – Lonsdale Quay
A vibrant public art piece by artist Mark George, the pole shows the sun, eagle, killer whale, and a welcoming figure. It celebrates the natural beauty and deep stories of the land.
📍Quay Market and Food Hall, 123 Carrie Cates Ct, North Vancouver
4. Living Tree Totem – Capilano Road (Darren Yelton)
This unique piece is carved into a standing cedar tree and represents both Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh teachings. Created by local Indigenous artist Darren Yelton, it is a living testament to traditional carving in a modern setting.
📍 Capilano Road, North Vancouver
5. Ambleside Welcome Figure – Ambleside Park
A 16-foot tall “Welcome Grandmother” figure carved by Elder Stan Joseph of the Squamish Nation. She was gifted to the community in 2001 and stands as a matriarchal symbol of hospitality and wisdom.
📍 Ambleside Park, 1150 Argyle Avenue, West Vancouver
6. Capilano Suspension Bridge Totem Poles – Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
A striking collection of traditional and modern totem poles created by Indigenous artists from the Squamish, Haida, and Tlingit nations. These poles tell foundational stories of the people of the Pacific Northwest and are accompanied by interpretive signage throughout the park.
📍 Ambleside Park, 1150 Argyle Avenue, West Vancouver
7. Carson Graham School Totems – North Vancouver
Installed at Carson Graham Secondary School, these poles reflect collaborative work between students and artists, including inspiration from Bill Reid. They depict cultural crests such as the eagle and killer whale, supporting Indigenous learning and visibility in education.
📍 Carson Graham Secondary, 2145 Jones Ave, North Vancouver
Bonus Tip: Rent an e-bike, pack a picnic and explore our many totem poles on Vancouvers North Shore!
