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Vanislander / Landmarks / Caves / Middle Scallop Caves

Middle Scallop Caves in Vancouver Island

Middle Scallop Cave is part of Vancouver Island’s vast network of over 1,000 documented caves, often referred to as the "Island of Caves." Situated in the remote Memekay River Valley, the cave is known for its high ceilings, narrow walls, and scalloped formations, which are a testament to the erosive power of water over millennia. The cave’s name likely derives from these scalloped walls, a geological feature formed by water flow, which adds to its allure for caving enthusiasts. While it lacks the fame of more accessible caves like those in Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, Middle Scallop Cave offers a raw, unfiltered caving experience for those seeking adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Middle Scallop Cave is located in the Memekay River Valley, north of Vancouver Island, near the town of Sayward. The valley is accessible via logging roads north of Campbell River, but the journey requires careful navigation and a sturdy vehicle due to the rough terrain. Once in the valley, reaching the cave involves a steep and winding trail that eventually drops into a canyon where the entrance is hidden. The hike is challenging, with sections that may require bushwhacking, making it more suitable for experienced hikers or cavers.
The cave is not part of any standard guided tours, unlike more popular cave systems on the island. This remoteness adds to its appeal for adventurers but also means that visitors must be well-prepared and self-sufficient. The nearest town is Sayward, a small community known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, which can serve as a base for those planning to explore the area.

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Geological Features

Middle Scallop Cave is a limestone cave, formed through the dissolution of soluble rocks by water over millions of years. What sets this cave apart are its scalloped walls, which are a result of water erosion. These scallops, which appear as smooth, wave-like patterns on the cave’s surfaces, indicate past water flow conditions—smaller scallops suggest faster-moving water, while larger ones indicate slower flow. The cave’s ceilings are impressively high, reaching at least 10 meters in some sections, while the walls are narrow, so tight in places that turning around is impossible.
The cave’s floor is mostly smooth but also features scalloped patterns, adding to the challenge of navigation. The passages wind unpredictably, with one corner leading to another, creating a maze-like experience. At the end of the cave, explorers are met with a waterfall and a small exit hole, which can be physically demanding to navigate, especially for less agile visitors.
Water levels in the cave can vary seasonally. During wetter months, such as December, water can rise above boot height, requiring visitors to use the walls for support in some areas. This variability adds an element of unpredictability, making each visit unique.

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Vancouver Island Activities

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Keel Cove Diving

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Hiking on the Quinsam River Hatchery Trail

Hiking on the Quinsam River Hatchery Trail

Have a nice easy hike in the forest with lots of river access points while you have chances for watching wildlife in Quinsam River Hatchery Trail. It is known as one of the most spectacular hiking trails in the area of Campbell River city. Fishing, nature trips, walking, and bird watching are other options for hiking along the river.

Jordan River Surfing

Jordan River Surfing

None of the experiences of surfing would be the same on Vancouver Island. While you are in Victoria, do not forget to check out surfing opportunities in the Jordan River. And if you're looking to come in its best surfing conditions, visit Jordan River during September-March, because The stormy weather with the intensified climate will make your surfing adventure more desirable.

Camping in Pachena Bay Campground

Camping in Pachena Bay Campground

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Long Beach Surfing

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Hiking on the Nanaimo River Trail

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Camping in Little Qualicum Falls Campground

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 The exact date of Middle Scallop Cave’s discovery is not widely documented, but it is believed to have been explored by local cavers familiar with the Memekay River Valley’s hidden cave systems. The valley is known for its numerous undocumented caves, making it a hotspot for caving enthusiasts. The cave’s name, "Middle Scallop," likely comes from its prominent scalloped features, which are rare and distinctive. While the cave has not been the subject of extensive historical documentation, it is part of Vancouver Island’s broader karst landscape, which has been shaped by tectonic activity and erosion. The island’s caves, including Middle Scallop Cave, are of significant geological interest, offering insights into the region’s natural history.

Vancouver Island Activities

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Hiking on the Quinsam River Hatchery Trail

Hiking on the Quinsam River Hatchery Trail

Have a nice easy hike in the forest with lots of river access points while you have chances for watching wildlife in Quinsam River Hatchery Trail. It is known as one of the most spectacular hiking trails in the area of Campbell River city. Fishing, nature trips, walking, and bird watching are other options for hiking along the river.

Nanaimo Whale Watching

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On Vancouver Island, you can spend every single day arriving in a new city comprising magnificent adventures. While you stay in the second-largest city on the island, you may enjoy several incredible activities, including whale watching. Whale watching in Nanaimo gives you the chance to explore the Salish Sea ecosystem and observe marine life from April-October.

Clayoquot Sound Kayaking

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Camping in Wildwoods Campsite

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Vanislander

Camping in the Goldstream Campground

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Visitors to Middle Scallop Caves can embrace sustainable travel by following Leave No Trace principles, staying on designated trails, and avoiding any disturbance to delicate cave formations. Opting for Indigenous-led tours helps support local communities while ensuring ethical tourism that respects cultural heritage and BC natural heritage. Packing reusable water bottles, avoiding single-use plastics, and participating in conservation programs also contribute to a low-impact visit.

Vancouver Island Activities

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Cycling in Victoria

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Imagine pedaling through a city where history meets nature in perfect harmony. Cycling in Victoria blends breathtaking scenery, diverse cycling routes Victoria offers, and a rich cultural tapestry. Nestled at the southern tip of the Saanich Peninsula, surrounded by the shimmering Salish Sea, Victoria boasts scenic bike paths that wind past Victorian architecture and rugged coastlines. Whether you’re drawn to the flat, leisurely Galloping Goose Regional Trail or the hilly challenges of the Tour of the Highlands, this guide unveils the best bike trails Victoria has to offer. Packed with detailed route breakdowns, gear recommendations, and insider tips, it’s your roadmap to an unforgettable Victoria cycling adventure.

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Hiking on the East Sooke Coast and Interior Trail Loop

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Hiking on Elk Falls Viewing Platform Trail

Hiking on Elk Falls Viewing Platform Trail

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Victoria Storm Watching

Victoria Storm Watching

If you happen to visit Victoria during fall and winter, do not hesitate to go storm-watching. It is a perfect place for brave souls seeking some exciting moments, watching the high waves making up in the distance, rolling into the coast, crashing against the rocks while rain's whipping. Protecting this natural phenomenon of nature is one of the most popular recreations at Victoria and exposed west beaches of Vancouver Island.

West Bay Esquimalt Whale Watching

West Bay Esquimalt Whale Watching

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Esquimalt Lagoon Windsurfing

Esquimalt Lagoon Windsurfing

If you are looking for a place to make immortal memories of your windsurfing experience, Esquimalt Lagoon would be an ideal place to do so. As one of the seven migratory bird sanctuaries, this lagoon with clear shallow water provides you with ample opportunity for water activities, including windsurfing. Also, beautiful birds travelling between North and South America are observable.