Brockton Point Totem Poles Vancouver
Iconic collection of nine totem poles at Brockton Point, Stanley Park, showcasing First Nations artistry and storytelling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, atmospheric mist
Brockton Point Totem Poles Vancouver
Best Time
Fewer crowds, atmospheric mist
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic collection of nine totem poles at Brockton Point, Stanley Park, showcasing First Nations artistry and storytelling.
"A wonderful tribute to the rich culture and traditions of the native peoples of the region."
🎯 Bike the Seawall
Rent bikes and cycle the seawall for the best park experience.
📸 Capture the Colors
Vibrant colors pop against the forest, perfect for photography.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Nine Totem Poles
Brockton Point
Intricate carvings telling stories of family, history, and spirituality. A vibrant cultural landmark.
Stanley Park Seawall
Circumference of Stanley Park
Iconic paved path offering stunning ocean and city views, perfect for biking or walking.
Brockton Point Lighthouse
Brockton Point
Historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Beat the Crowds
Getting Around Stanley Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bike the Seawall
Rent bikes and cycle the seawall for the best park experience.
📸 Capture the Colors
Vibrant colors pop against the forest, perfect for photography.
🚶♀️ Take Your Time
Each pole tells a unique story; explore them all.
🚻 Facilities Nearby
Clean washrooms and a souvenir shop are conveniently located.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bike the Seawall
Rent bikes and cycle the seawall for the best park experience.
📸 Capture the Colors
Vibrant colors pop against the forest, perfect for photography.
🚶♀️ Take Your Time
Each pole tells a unique story; explore them all.
🚻 Facilities Nearby
Clean washrooms and a souvenir shop are conveniently located.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is available for cars and bikes near the poles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Brockton Point Totem Poles as a vibrant and historically rich tribute to Indigenous culture, offering a scenic and authentic outdoor experience. The intricate carvings and their stories are highlighted as particularly engaging, with many appreciating the opportunity for photography against the natural backdrop. Some reviews mention ongoing discussions about the origin of certain poles and the potential for commercial use of imagery.
"This is a wonderful tribute to the rich culture and traditions of the native peoples of the region. The carvings are elaborate, colorful, and full of history, and seeing them outdoors among the mist and towering trees feels much more authentic than in a museum setting.
The vibrant colors pop beautifully against the deep green forest and gray skies, making it a striking sight for photography as well. It’s not just a cultural experience, but also a very scenic one. Take your time walking around, as each carving tells its own story.
Pro tip: Visit early in the day or on a cloudy/misty morning for the most atmospheric views."
Manik Gupta
"The totem poles in Stanley Park, Vancouver are one of British Columbia’s most visited attractions, showcasing the artistry and cultural traditions of Indigenous peoples from the Pacific Northwest. The collection includes poles carved by artists from several First Nations, each telling stories of family lineage, history, or spiritual beliefs. Originally installed in the 1920s and expanded over time, they serve both as cultural landmarks and as a tribute to Indigenous heritage. A good gift shop is there."
Alireza Abdollahee
"Great park and excellent visit . At the time of our visit there was a small team filming for a documentary.
We were able to witness a ceremony and had a chat with Robert the man who, along with a team of people carved the big totem poll.
It was fascinating listening to his story, about his adoption and the legal battle he is engaged in with Budweiser whom he says used the pole for advertising without permission.
The photo tells the story"
Austin Fenn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The totem poles are located at Brockton Point in Stanley Park. The best way to reach them is by biking the Stanley Park Seawall, renting a bike from Denman Street or near the convention center. You can also drive and park nearby, or use the park's internal roads.
Yes, biking is highly recommended and considered the best way to experience Stanley Park. The seawall offers a pleasant ride directly to the totem poles.
Yes, you can drive to the totem poles. Stanley Park Drive and Pipeline Road provide access to various sights, including Brockton Point. Parking is available in the vicinity.
While the hop-on hop-off bus can take you to Stanley Park, biking or walking the seawall offers a more immersive and flexible experience of the park's attractions, including the totem poles.
There is parking available near the totem poles. For cyclists, racks are located across the road by the water.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the Brockton Point Totem Poles. They are located within Stanley Park, which is a public space.
The totem poles are accessible year-round during Stanley Park's open hours, which are generally from dawn until dusk.
While there aren't official guided tours specifically for the totem poles, you can learn about their history and significance from informational signage on-site.
Stanley Park itself does not have an entrance fee. However, there may be fees for specific attractions or parking within the park.
Yes, the totem poles are accessible during daylight hours. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can offer a more serene experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or cloudy/misty days provide the most atmospheric lighting for photography. The vibrant colors also pop well against the natural backdrop.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the cultural significance of the site and any ongoing ceremonies.
The totem poles themselves are highly photogenic. The surrounding forest and views of the harbor from Brockton Point also offer great photo opportunities.
Drone usage in Stanley Park is typically restricted to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check current park regulations before flying a drone.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for early morning or misty conditions. A wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the poles and their surroundings.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Besides the nine totem poles, you can enjoy the Brockton Point Lighthouse, scenic views of the harbor, and the surrounding natural beauty of Stanley Park. 
Yes, there are clean washrooms and a souvenir gift shop located conveniently near the totem pole collection.
Allocate at least 30-60 minutes to fully appreciate the totem poles, read about their stories, and take photos. This can be extended if combined with a seawall bike ride.
The pathways around the totem poles are generally paved and accessible. However, some areas within Stanley Park may have uneven terrain.
The totem poles are significant cultural artifacts of the First Nations and Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast, each telling unique stories of lineage, history, or spiritual beliefs.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
While there isn't dining directly at the totem poles, Stanley Park has a brewpub and other cafes and restaurants within biking or walking distance.
Picnic areas are available throughout Stanley Park. You can enjoy a picnic with views of the harbor or forest.
Yes, there is a souvenir gift shop located near the totem pole collection where you can purchase mementos.
Stanley Park offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes and a brewpub to more formal restaurants, serving various cuisines.
During peak season, you might find some food carts or vendors within Stanley Park, but it's best to check current availability.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring snacks and water, as dining options within immediate proximity to the poles are limited, though washrooms are available nearby. Consider visiting during daylight hours when children are most engaged. The open space around the poles allows for exploration, and the nearby lighthouse offers additional points of interest. Make it a part of a larger Stanley Park adventure, perhaps including a stop at the playgrounds or beaches within the park.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Take advantage of the quieter morning hours to truly appreciate the artistry and cultural significance without distraction. The park offers numerous scenic spots for reflection, and the nearby gift shop provides an opportunity to find a unique souvenir.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the poles against the backdrop of Stanley Park's lush greenery and the Vancouver harbor. Close-up shots can reveal the incredible detail in the carvings. Don't forget to explore the surrounding areas for complementary shots of the lighthouse and coastal scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Origin of the Totem Poles
+1These poles are not merely decorative; they are intricate works of art that serve as powerful storytelling mediums. Each pole represents a unique narrative, often depicting family lineage, ancestral stories, spiritual beliefs, or significant historical events. The artistry involved in carving these monumental poles is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast.
It's important to note that the acquisition of some poles has been a subject of discussion, with some community members raising concerns about their origins.
Experiencing Stanley Park: Biking vs. Walking
Walking the seawall is also a beloved experience, offering a more leisurely pace to soak in the stunning ocean vistas and the lush park environment.
Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, exploring Stanley Park is a must-do. The interactive map provided by the city can help you plan your route and identify points of interest.
Photography Tips for the Totem Poles
When composing your shots, try to capture the scale of the poles by including elements of their surroundings. Experiment with different angles to highlight the detailed carvings and the stories they tell. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the entire pole and its context, while a telephoto lens can focus on specific intricate details.
Remember to be respectful of the cultural significance of the totem poles. While photography is generally permitted, avoid intrusive behavior, especially if any ceremonies are taking place.
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