The Kwalhioqua Indians, known by various names such as Axwe-la-pc and Gila-q!ulawas, were an Athapascan-speaking people residing along the upper Willopah River and Chehalis River headwaters. Their population was estimated at around 200 in 1780, but significant decline by 1850 left only a few survivors. Unique in Washington State, the Kwalhioqua were notably isolated from other Athapascan tribes, which has marked their historical identity.
The Kwalhioqua Tribe, an Athapascan group, historically inhabited the upper Willopah River area in western Washington. Their territory may have extended into parts of the upper Chehalis River, although some scholars dispute this. Often confused with the Chinookan Willopah tribe, they lived primarily in a location called Nq!ul´was. By 1850, their population had dwindled to a few survivors who relied on foraging and hunting for sustenance, demonstrating a nomadic lifestyle distinct from neighboring tribes.