Nestled in the middle of a forest, the incredible Little Qualicum Falls cascades into a small canyon creating a magnificent pool, making another fall and pouring into the Qualicum River. Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park that features the waterfall is one of the most popular parks on Vancouver Island. The beautiful forest near high mountains and the north shore of Cameron Lake create a peaceful atmosphere and an excellent destination for a vacation. One of the best things about this park is that there are fun and exciting activities available like windsurfing and scuba diving, so the fantastic landscape is not the only reason to visit.
Little Qualicum Falls is located on Central Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. Two cities are near the waterfall; Parksville is 19.3 km (11.8 miles) to the east, and Port Alberni is 31.3 km (19.4 miles) to the southwest. The nearby communities close to Little Qualicum Falls are Coombs and Qualicum.
Landmarks near and within the park are Cameron Lake, Hamilton Hobby Farm, and Spider Lake Provincial Park.
From Victoria:
The distance from Victoria to Little Qualicum Falls is 167 km (103 miles) and takes almost 2 hours and 4 minutes via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N.
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 N1. After 155 km (96.3 miles), continue on BC-4 W. Drive to Little Qualicum Fall Rd in Nanaimo F. Drive 10.7 km (6.6 miles) more to reach the Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.
From Nanaimo:
From Nanaimo to the falls is a 56.7 km (35.2 miles) distance to cover. It takes almost 42 minutes via BC-19 N.
Head west on Fitzwilliam St toward Wesley St. After 800 m (2624.6 ft), continue onto Third St for 1.9 km (1.1 miles). Then continue onto Jingle Pot Rd for 650 m (2132.5 ft) and turn right onto BC-19 N (signs for Campbell R). After 41.2 km (25.6 miles), take exit 60 toward Port Alberni. Drive for 155. 5 km and merge onto Memorial Rd/BC-4 W. After 9.4 km (5.8 miles), turn right onto Little Qualicum Fall Rd. Continue for 1.3 km (0.8 miles) to reach the Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.
1. "Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park" is a 2.9 km (1.8 miles) out and back trail with 66 m (216.5 ft) of elevation gain. It is near Qualicum Beach, perfect for nature trips and bird watching. The good news is that it is accessible all year round. This path is easy, and hiking and walking stimulate activities to do on this trail, especially with stairs and bridges.
2. "Little Qualicum River and Falls" is an easy loop with 1.3 km (0.8 miles) length and 42 m (137.7 ft) of elevation gain. This easy path is suitable for all skill levels. You can use it for hiking and nature trips.
To protect the old-growth douglas fir forest, the Little Qualicum Falls Park was established in 1940. The name Qualicum has an interesting meaning, "where the dog salmon run." Dog salmon refers to chum salmon, and the name comes from the Pentlatch language, which was the Coast Salish People's language. The Qualicum reserve is home to Kwakwaka'wakw People; their native language was Kwakiutl.
Qualicum Falls Provincial Park does not lack in providing activities. The park's unique location offers many things to do, like canoeing or kayaking on the waters of Cameron Lake or Beaufort. This exciting opportunity takes your visit to another level, not to mention it is pretty relaxing.
Cycling is another fun to do on your visit. The beautiful view and the raw nature around make your biking experience unforgettable.
Cameron Lake is a well-known spot for fishing and one of the few places reported to have brown trout. So take advantage and catch some delicious trout for dinner.
Hiking in the magnificent old-growth and second-growth can be peaceful. The park provides comfortable trails with exceptional views. Windsurfing, waterskiing, and scuba diving are also available on Cameron Lake. These exhilarating activities are chances that can be the experience of a lifetime.