Adopted 3 July 1946 on 103J/4 as listed in 1930 Gazetteer and as labeled on Reference Map 3L "Graham Island" (1915, 1919) and Geological Survey of Canada Map 278A "Prince Rupert" (1933). Previously appeared as Hlie Lung River on British Admiralty Chart 3754 "Dixon Entrance" (1911) and in 1930 Pilot.

Source: BC place name cards & correspondence, and/or research by BC Chief Geographer & Geographical Names Office staff.

"A modification of the old Haida THEE-ELL-EN or TOU-UNDL-AY meaning RIVER-BY-TOW. (C. Smith)... Dr. G.M. Dawson first adopted the name to the maps in 1878. 'It is a stream of some size, frequented by great numbers of salmon in autumn,' he wrote." (p. 367)

Source: Dalzell, Kathleen E; "Queen Charlotte Islands - Book 2: of places and names"; Prince Rupert: Cove Press, 1973

Hiellen is a modification of the Haida name meaning “river by Tow Hill.” A sizable Haida village was situated on the east shore of the mouth of this river, and a clam cannery also operated there, 1923-30. An early store and post office were located on the Hiellen’s east bank.

Source: Scott, Andrew; "The Encyclopedia of Raincoast Place Names"; Harbour Publishing, Madeira Park, 2009, page 262.

Headwaters at 53 58 - 131 52.

Source: Canadian Geographical Names Database, Ottawa