Vancouver Island is a haven of natural wonders, and Hole in the Wall (Port Alberni) is a crown jewel of all the attractions. It is a mysterious waterfall, and although the name sounds strange, it is perfectly appropriate. The rock above Hole in the Wall Falls looks like a wall, and the place where water surges through looks like a hole. Suppose you are a fan of Lord of the Rings; you find Hole in the Wall Falls similar to the movie's set.
The Waterfall scenery is magical, and the Hole itself seems to be a portal to another world. The view of the waterfall is perfect for photography. The water descends on what appears to be stairs made out of rocks, and, in the rainy seasons, when the water surface is high enough, you can enjoy swimming as well.
The Hole in the Wall Falls is located in Port Alberni, BC, Canada. The waterfall is at the center of Vancouver Island, near the visitor center, Sherwood Forest Park, a great candy store, and 12 minutes away from the Alberni Valley Museum. Thus have in mind that there is more than one place to see on your visit. The landscape of the waterfall is a forest, so the trails to it are pretty spectacular.
Little Qualicum Falls is one of the nearest waterfalls with about 25 km (15.5 miles) distance to the northeast.
13.4 km (8.3 miles) away to the northeast MacMillan Provincial Park placed near Cameron Lake. If you drive 16.1 km (10 miles) to the southeast, you can access Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park.
There is a chance about 25 km (15.5 miles) to the north toward Horne Lake Caves for cave exploring enthusiasts.
From Victoria:
The access to Hole in the Wall Falls from Victoria is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N. It is 190 km (118 miles) and takes about one hour and a half.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N for 1.2 km (0.7 miles). Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N to Memorial Rd/BC-4 W in Nanaimo G. Take exit 60 from BC-19 N. Drive 155 km (96.3 miles) and follow BC-4 W to your destination in Alberni-Clayoquot F. After
33.4 km (20.7 miles), you will reach Hole In The Wall at Port Alberni.
From Nanaimo:
Getting to Hole in the Wall Falls from Nanaimo is via BC-19 N and BC-4 W. It is 79.5 km (49.3 miles) and takes about one hour.
Take Third St to BC-19 N for 3.3 km (2 miles) and follow BC-19 N to Memorial Rd/BC-4 W in Nanaimo G. Take exit 60 from BC-19 N, and after 42.8 km (26.5 miles), follow BC-4 W to your destination in Alberni-Clayoquot F. Drive 33.4 km (20.7 miles) more to reach Hole In The Wall.
"Port Alberni Hole in the Wall" is a 1.3 km (0.8 miles) out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of 27 m (88.5 ft). It is almost easy, but it doesn't mean that you don't have to be cautious; the trail is, in some parts, muddy or rocky. You can use this trail for walking or hiking and enjoy yourself enormously because the trail features a river and forest view.
An interesting thing about this waterfall is that a long time ago, the Hole was part of a water line used to get fresh water to the people of Alberni Valley.
Port Alberni was named after captain Don Pedro de Alberni, a Spanish officer who commanded a part of the island from 1790 till 1792.
The waterfall atmosphere makes an excellent motivation for hiking. The beautiful forest and the river would make your hike relaxing and refreshing.
If you are a professional photographer, this is a place to upgrade your career. The scenery is fantastic and original. If you are just a visitor, take my friendy suggestion and bring your phone or camera. The view would make your photos look like a pro has taken them.
Swimming in the refreshing water of the fall is a memorable experience. If you are lucky and the water level is high, summer is an excellent time for swimming.