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Little Qualicum Falls

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 Location

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.


How to Get to Little Qualicum Falls by Car

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.


The Hike to Get to Little Qualicum Falls

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.


History of Little Qualicum Falls

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.


Things to do around the Little Qualicum Falls Area

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.

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls Near Little Qualicum Falls

Beach Estates Falls

Beach Estates Falls

Nanaimo is one of the most visited cities on Vancouver Island, and finding a peaceful and quiet place can be considered a gift. Stepping into Beach Estates Park and visiting Beach Estates Falls is like being in another world. It is not a heavy waterfall, but watching the water runs down and listening to its melody causes anyone to relax. Take your camera with you, hike at the park and capture the beauties of the waterfall and stunning trees and plants.

Granny Falls

Granny Falls

There is always an adventure in the woods. Pass the wooden bridge toward the Nanaimo Parkway and go deep in the lush forest. The flow of Chase River, get you to the Granny Falls, the cherry on top of Colliery Dam Park, which runs freely into the pool under it. The beautiful trees and smoothly running river make Granny Falls a family-friendly place.

Millstone River Falls

Millstone River Falls

Millstone River Falls is not a tall waterfall, but its beauty can rival any waterfall on Vancouver Island. Located in Bowen Park, two drops of Millstone River Falls make a soft melody by running smoothly down the river. Bowen Park Loop is a hiking trail that leads you to the waterfall, which is easy even for children. So you can enjoy this natural attraction with your family.

Ammonite Falls

Ammonite Falls

The ammonite fossils' existence down the falls on the bedrock cause the waterfall at Benson Creek Falls Regional Park to be named Ammonite Falls. The moss-covered trees and rocks make the scenery beautiful in every season. You may forget about the things you do at work, but happy times and the memories you make in nature will stay forever. Make it family fun and get the best out of it.

Rosewall Creek Falls

Rosewall Creek Falls

The flow of Rosewall Creek forms a waterfall in the middle of a rain forest surrounded by moss-covered rocks. Rosewall Creek Falls is one of the masterpieces done by nature that deserves multiple visits. The water is white and pure, and it seems like it's coming out of a wall made of trees. Visiting the waterfall in summer and spring would be perfect as the creek has a higher water level.

Little Qualicum Falls

Little Qualicum Falls

Above Cameron Lake, at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, Little Qualicum Falls is situated in the middle of a forest. It cascades into a small canyon, creating a magnificent pool, making another fall and pouring into the Qualicum River. The peaceful atmosphere is memorable, but it doesn't end here. The fantastic landscape and all the things you can do at the park make it a perfect destination for your vacation.

Englishman River Falls

Englishman River Falls

Englishman River Falls is a vivid example of nature's wonders, with the water streaming among the rocks. There are beautiful lower falls with the turquoise, clear water underneath and the water descending in white surges. The exquisite combination of douglas fir, cedar, hemlock, maple trees and stubborn rocks makes this place's beauty go beyond comprehension.

Hole in the Wall Falls

Hole in the Wall Falls

Ease your mind and calm your soul with the stream of the waterfall. Vancouver Island is a haven of natural wonders, and Hole in the Wall (Port Alberni) is a crown jewel of all the attractions. The water passes through a hole and descends on what appears to be stairs makes it mysterious, and the scenery with trees around creates this magical beauty of nature, an excellent place for photography.

Little Qualicum Falls Activities

Hiking

The park has two hiking trails that feature the Little Qualicum Falls; Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park Trail and Little Qualicum River and Falls loop. The lookout points alongside the trails going to the falls offer spectacular views of the forest and the falls.

Swimming

Swimming is not allowed near the falls due to a strong stream, but there are some parts along the river suitable for swimming. Please check with the park information for swimming holes. Cameron Lake is a nearby option for swimming.

Fishing

Fishing in BC requires a special license, but for those who have it, fishing is rewarding. Cameron Lake has various fishes species.

Biking

Biking is a fun activity, especially with the view, but it is restricted to the roadways and having a helmet is a must. E-bikes are not allowed in the park.

Boating (motorized boat)

Bating is not recommended around the falls, but motorboats with engines up to 10 hp are allowed on Cameron Lake.
Cameron Lake day-use area and Beaufort day-use area are available for kayaking or canoeing.

Kayaking / Canoeing

Cameron Lake day-use area and Beaufort day-use area are available for kayaking or canoeing.

Windsurfing

The funnel coming from the mountains around and the calm surface of Cameron Lake all provide a perfect condition for windsurfing.

Waterskiing

Waterskiing is available on Cameron Lake. This exciting activity will make your visit a journey to remember.

Scuba Diving

Cameron Lake provides scuba diving opportunities, and the rich marine life makes it more intriguing.

Camping

The large and popular campgrounds are near upper falls, and lower falls in the park are good enough places for camping.

Wildlife/Bird Watching

Unfortunately, the park doesn't have viewing stations for bird and wildlife watching. The park's wildlife is limited to bears and wolves, so please keep in mind the safety tips.

What you Can Expect to Do Near Little Qualicum Falls

Hiking on Bowen Park Loop

Hiking on Bowen Park Loop

Hiking on Bowen Park Loop is a lovely urban walk along a river with stunningly beautiful nature that promotes a rich forest, a waterfall, and a scenic pond. This easy hiking trail is so well maintained with lots of facilities. Spend hours hiking on this loop as part of the Trans Canada Trail and have a memorable day in the park, great for different kinds of activities.

Nanaimo Diving

Nanaimo Diving

Ranked as the best cold-water diving destination in BC, Nanaimo waters are saturated with new diving experiences. BC Ferries, dive shops, accessible shores, and the chance to observe cute beaches have made Nanaimo an ideal destination for visitors. Diving enthusiasts find themselves in the heavens when they come to Nanaimo, for it is home to spotless diving spots.

Nanaimo Yacht Club Whale Watching

Nanaimo Yacht Club Whale Watching

For those marine life lovers, Nanaimo Yacht Club Whale Watching is a great opportunity. Participants can ride boats and surf the surrounding waters with the chance to explore the area and observe whales living near Nanaimo due to the high population of orcas and whales around there.

Protection Island Ferry Whale Watching

Protection Island Ferry Whale Watching

Protection Island Ferry provides its participants with high chances of watching whales and other marine creatures, along with the scenic view of three spectacular islands. You may also rent a boat to surf the water, and if you are in luck, encounter these gigantic marine beasts.

Nanaimo Whale Watching

Nanaimo Whale Watching

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.

Camping in Deep Bay RV Park

Camping in Deep Bay RV Park

Despite its name, if you favour it, you can do tent camping with a sea view right in the center of Vancouver Island. one of the most significant fishing camps, Deep Bay s full of surprises for anglers. Not to mention that if you visit, you can observe various fantastic wildlife there. So, put your hesitates aside, and plan to visit Camping in Deep Bay RV Park this weekend.

Camping in Ford's Cove Marina

Camping in Ford's Cove Marina

Looking for a place on Hornby Island to stay the night while enjoying yourselves? You would better stop by camping in Ford's Cove Marina and camp with your RV or tent. This campground has cute oceanic views and glorious sunsets with gorgeous mountains. The Ford's Cove Marina Campground sites are charming, well-maintained, and spacious, with a pleasant grassy and treed atmosphere and beautiful scenery.

Camping in Qualicum Bay Resort

Camping in Qualicum Bay Resort

As a popular destination for campers from Nanaimo or Courtenay, Qualicum Bay Resort is one of the best places for nature admirers. Amuse your eye with the beautiful scenic view of this campground located on a beautiful beach. You are provided with almost every kind of camping and incredible landscape for those in the RV campground.

Camping in Lighthouse RV Park and Campground

Camping in Lighthouse RV Park and Campground

The great adventure in Fanny Bay will always hunt its visitors. The Lighthouse RV Park and Campground offer undeniable opportunities for camping of all kinds with a beautiful view of the ocean ornamented by mountains and islands. This campground offers excellent accommodation with every essential amenity. Not to mention that you can lose yourself in its charm, quiet, and unique sites and find it again.

Camping in Bradsdadsland Campsite

Camping in Bradsdadsland Campsite

Spacious, unique, private, and complete facility sites are provided in Bradsdadsland Campsite for visitors to have a perfect time camping on Hornby Island. Embrace this fantastic opportunity for adventure while you are in one of the gems of Hornby Island. You would feel peaceful while camping in the beautiful Bradsdadsland, away from your daily boring daily routine. While watching sunsets, enjoy the ocean view ahead of you.

Camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground

Camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground

By camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground, the freedom you feel is seductive. The sandy beaches are perfect for spending some time walking or lounging on enjoying the lake's beautiful view and forest. So, do not miss another day of your vacation and head to the Camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground to fulfil your desires for adventure.

Nanaimo Kayaking and Canoeing

Nanaimo Kayaking and Canoeing

If you are trying to get away from your lethal daily routine and your adventure flow has been stopped, why don't you plan a trip to the only multi-functional port city on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo? An assemblage of several distinguished bodies of water has made Nanaimo one of the best paddling locations in the world. You are provided with tons of other activities on both land and the sea.

Norris Rocks Diving

Norris Rocks Diving

Diving in Norris Rocks is two birds with one stone. You have the chance for an exciting deep-diving and also observing the unbelievable underwater wildlife inhabiting the area. After jumping into the water, go deep to gaze upon giant octopuses and deep-water locations.

Flora Islet Diving

Flora Islet Diving

If you are wandering around Hornby Island and thinking about a way to multiply the adventure of your day, do not hesitate and head to Flora Islet. On the other hand, no boats? Don't worry! This excellent diving zone is accessible by ferry. Enthusiasts who come to the site on summer days have the chance to see six-gill sharks.

China Creek Diving

China Creek Diving

According to your level of proficiency or your preference, the depths for diving vary from shallow to deep in China Creek. Comprising a wall dive with an incredible view of Port Alberni and amazing marine creatures underneath the water surface multiplies the beauty of this diving experience.

Little Qualicum Falls Outline

Specifications

Climate

Timing


1. All the climate data are on average.

What you Can Expect to See Near Little Qualicum Falls

Great Central Lake

Great Central Lake

Great Central Lake is a popular destination near Port Alberni for hot summer days. As it is nestled beneath low mountains, and secondary-growth forests mostly surround it, there is a reflection on the water, making a scenic view. Photography, boating, hiking, swimming, and camping are suggested while you are in the area. So go on the adventures and pour your heart into them.

Parksville

Parksville

Parksville is known for its scenic, superb sandy beaches. This city is also famous for hiking trails, waterfalls, wildlife, parks, entertainment centres, and many fantastic restaurants and pubs. The city's most popular annual festival is Sandcastle Competition. Englishman River Falls, Little Qualicum Falls, and Englishman River Falls Provincial Park are among the most visited places.

Colliery Dam Park

Colliery Dam Park

Colliery Dam Park with Chase River, huge trees, Granny Falls, and two small ponds is a tranquil and wooded park. The spectacular views with some nice bridges make the park a good choice for photographers. It is possible to walk your dog off-leash at the upper dam. You can go hiking, seasonal swimming, boating, and fishing for rainbow trout.

Maffeo Sutton Park

Maffeo Sutton Park

Maffeo Sutton Park is a waterfront park with a perfect view of Nanaimo Harbour. It is a family park mainly known for its nice walking trails, playground, and picnicking areas. Swy-A-Lana Lagoon Fishing Pier is a nice spot located southeast of the park for fishing and swimming. This scenic oceanside park's Lions Pavilion Stage hosts community and musical events.

Beaufort Park

Beaufort Park

Beaufort Park is a year-round destination in Nanaimo. Each season's nature and wildlife diversity make eye-catching scenery for visitors, so take a camera with you. A multi-purpose court suitable for sports like basketball and pickleball, and a tennis court are available. There are also a community garden and a food forest, and a dog off-leash area.

Pipers Lagoon Park

Pipers Lagoon Park

Pipers Lagoon Park is a waterfront park with Shack Island, the ocean, and Neck Point Park views. Stay there for sunrise and sunset, and don't miss watching the scene. The park is home to bird species and other animals, making it a perfect destination for wildlife photographers. Hiking and jogging, beachcombing, flying a kite, and doing water sports are other options.

Bowen Park

Bowen Park

It seems that all you need is available at Bowen Park; a waterfall, duck pond, wilderness and picnic areas, and lots of facilities and sports fields. The Millstone River passes through the park, where can be considered as your hiking trail. The duck pond and a beautiful rhododendron grove with more than 350 species are amusing. Be there for some exercise or relaxation in the woods.

Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay is known as a place to relax with its large pebble beach, somewhere between Nanaimo and Parksville. The scene is stunning, specifically in the evening when the sun meets the ocean. No matters how many times you visited the beach, it is always peaceful and attractive. Nanoose Bay is home to many sea animals, and the beach is perfect for digging up some clams.

Chinese Memorial Gardens Park

Chinese Memorial Gardens Park

Walking from the ferry terminal to downtown Nanaimo, you can find a beautiful small garden, Chinese Memorial Gardens Park. A small public park with full-grown shrubs and trees and gracious lawns performs as a relaxing spot. The painted, formed pagoda structure and carved stones decorated it. The scenery is eye-catching and is mainly used for the background of family portraits.

Neck Point Park

Neck Point Park

Neck Point Park is a beachfront park with some lookout spots where land meets the ocean. It is a popular choice for photography, hiking, scuba diving, and historic and scenic features. Fishing, paddling, and swimming are other options you have to entertain yourself. This waterfront park has awesome sea life; also, you can see bunnies very commonly.

Qualicum Beach

Qualicum Beach

An excellent picnicking area and sunny weather attract many families in summer to relax on Qualicum Beach. This sandy beach is placed in an area with many facilities and attractions to enjoy your day. Let life lead you to the beach with the incredible landscape of Lasqueti Island Ecological Reserve hills, blue sky and the ocean. Choose kinds of water activities which you delight in doing.

Beach Estates Park

Beach Estates Park

If you plan to be away from urban life and spend hours in the woods watching wildlife and get relaxed, take a visit to Beach Estates Park, west of Departure Bay. With a beautiful designated hiking trail, Beach Estates Park is interesting for hikers and runners. The park's nature includes a lush forest with magnificent tall trees, a small river, a rocky beach, and Beach Estates Falls.

Westwood Lake Park

Westwood Lake Park

Silence is wiser than speech in nature. To get this atmosphere with a scenic view near Nanaimo and to have an excellent family time, Westwood Lake Park is a smart year-round choice. It is a perfect place with a playground for kids, an off-leash area, and a lifeguard patrolled freshwater swimming site. Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and boating are other adventures to take.

Wall Beach

Wall Beach

Wall Beach is a rocky beach north of Nanoose Bay. The peaceful atmosphere gives you an excellent chance to live in the sunshine, feel alive by the ocean air, and relax. It is the best escape anyone can have to get rid of work pressure. Do what makes you happy and improve your health. The beach has a dive site to dive, swim, and explore the rich marine life.

Parksville Beaches

Parksville Beaches

Parksville Beaches is a public beach with endless tidal flats of sand and rock. In July, a fantastic event takes place; the Sand Castle Sculpture Competition and Exhibition. In summer, soaking in the sun and watching the splendid sky could be relaxing. As the beach has an extensive area, it suits children's taste to spend hours running freely, playing and beachcombing.

Planning for Little Qualicum Falls

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1. The distances are estimated from The Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.
1. The distances are estimated from The Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.

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