Great Marpole Midden

Located in Marpole Park, this archaeological site contains layers of shells, bone and stone tools, and human remains buried up to 4.6 meters (15 feet) underground. The area spreads across multiple properties between nearby streets and railway tracks in the Marpole neighborhood.

The site was first settled by Coast Salish people around 400 BCE and remained inhabited for roughly 850 years. The first scientific study in 1892 sparked wider interest in prehistoric settlements along the Pacific coast.

The place reveals how Coast Salish people lived from generation to generation, relying heavily on the sea for their survival. The remains show their skill in working with wood and their deep connection to the water.

The site is freely accessible and located within a city park that is easy to reach by public transit. Be aware that the ground is uneven and there are no museum facilities on site, so plan accordingly.

This shell midden was occupied continuously for over 1500 years, making it one of the oldest inhabited sites on the Pacific coast. This long continuity reveals how well suited the location was to the Coast Salish way of life.

Location: Vancouver

Website: https://pc.gc.ca/apps/dfhd/page_nhs_eng.aspx?id=81

GPS coordinates: 49.20400,-123.13900

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:08