Have you ever wanted to step into a world of ancient legends, where towering totem poles tell the stories of Indigenous cultures that have called this land home for thousands of years?
At Vancouver’s Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Kia’palano offers just that – with a huuuge dive into Indigenous history, culture, and art.
In this post, I’ll explore what makes the Capilano totem poles special and give you a sneak peak on what you’ll see.
What is Kia’palano?
Kia’palano is a fascinating cultural exhibit within Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, dedicated to the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast.
The name Kia’palano comes from the Squamish language, meaning “beautiful river”, a fitting tribute to the natural beauty of the Capilano River and its deep significance.
This area of the park is home to an impressive collection of authentic totem poles, each one intricately carved with powerful symbols and stories passed down through generations.
Unlike other totem pole exhibits in Vancouver, Kia’palano offers an intimate, private collection.
Along with the Cliffwalk and Treetops Adventure, this completes the heavenly hat-trick of attractions to back up the main bridge.
Sneak Preview of Kia’palano
Walking into Kia’palano, you are immediately surrounded by towering totem poles, some standing over 50 feet high, their carved figures watching over visitors as they have for centuries.
Each pole is unique, telling stories of ancestral spirits, animals, and legendary beings, all deeply connected to the land and people who created them.
But rather than just reading about them here, check out this video:
Beyond the totems themselves, interpretive signage and displays provide deeper explanations of the symbols, carving techniques, and traditions of the Coast Salish, Haida, and other Indigenous nations.
You’ll also have the chance to learn about the carving process, the materials used, and the ceremonial significance of each totem pole.
For those who want an even deeper understanding, the park’s knowledgeable guides are available to share the oral histories and traditions associated with each piece.
How to See Kia’palano in Vancouver
Access to Kia’palano is included with general admission to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.
The 2025 ticket prices are as follows:
- Adults: $78.70
- Seniors (65+): $78.70
- Youth (13-17): $47.20
- Children (6-12): $28.30
- Under 5: Free
Your ticket also includes access to the main suspension bridge, the Cliffwalk, the Treetops Adventure, and guided tours of the park.
Booking online in advance is highly recommended, as weekends and peak seasons tend to sell out quickly.
Using the button below, you can also take advantage of the free shuttle from downtown Vancouver, making your visit even more convenient.
My Kia’palano Review
Stepping into Kia’palano, I was immediately struck by the powerful presence of the totem poles.
Unlike other attractions at Capilano, this experience wasn’t about thrills or heights: it was about history, storytelling, and respect for Indigenous traditions.
Each totem pole had its own energy, its own story to tell, and the deeper I explored, the more I appreciated the cultural significance of what I was seeing.
One of my favorite moments was listening to a First Nations storyteller, who shared the meaning behind some of the figures carved into the poles: stories of raven tricksters, powerful thunderbirds, and guardians of the forest.
For me, Kia’palano was more than just an exhibit; it was a window into the living traditions of the First Nations people of British Columbia.
Either way, make sure to reserve your tickets online in advance, as time slots can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
How Long Does It Take to Explore Kia’palano?
Depending on how much time you spend reading the displays and listening to the guides, it could take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes to fully experience Kia’palano.
What to Wear for Kia’palano?
Since Kia’palano is an outdoor exhibit, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather – especially if you plan on exploring the rest of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park afterward.
Undecided? Check out my article: Is Capilano Suspension Bridge Worth It?
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