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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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 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.

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