West Coast Indigenous Paddles

Traditionally the West Coast Indigenous carved paddles were used to steer and paddle large cedar canoes in the coastal waters of the Northwest Pacific. The paddles have also been used during ceremonies and dances and, sometimes, as weapons.

Paddle are often carved and painted as a set for each boat. Those carved from Red Cedar tend to be painted black and red; those carved from Yellow Cedar are black and ochre. Paddle shapes vary depending on their use. For example, whalers’ paddles tapered to a fine point so they could enter the water more quietly, while the steering paddle used in the stern of the canoe is broader.

Today, carved cedar paddles still play a large part in the culture of the West Coast Native Indigenous people. Beautifully carved and painted, these paddles display both traditional and contemporary designs and stories.

Please view our gallery to find Paddles that were carved by authentic Squamish Nation Artists.