Myra Falls (or Lower Myra Falls) is a Jewel of natural wonders on Vancouver Island. The seven-drop waterfall is so picturesque that you feel like you're in a land of fantasy. This waterfall is prime during summer when the water stream is more robust, and the fall is more graceful. The most beautiful part of Myra Falls is the different shades of green and blue of the water in the pool under the fall, making a great scene perfect for photography. Not to mention the pool itself is fantastic for swimming.
A visit to the beautiful waterfall will wash all your troubles away. The peaceful space and a tremendous view will take your trip to a higher level. A word of caution: if you plan to swim, you should know that the water is very cold even in summer, so be prepared. This waterfall is beautiful all year round, and no matter what your taste in a natural attraction is, Myra Falls meets all your expectations.
Myra Falls is located in Strathcona Provincial Park in the Comox-Strathcona D region, Vancouver Island. The waterfall is at the end of Myra Creek, very close to Buttle Lake's south end. The surroundings are full of attractions at close distances like Elk Falls Provincial Park, Maritime Heritage Center, and the Campbell River Museum. The forest and mountain combination is spectacular, especially with the view of the clear water cascading on large boulders. It is a sight worth exploring.
Buttle Lake and Forbidden Plateau are two areas in Strathcona Provincial Park that have facilities and attract visitors. The rest of the park is undeveloped and excellent for backpackers who enjoy wilderness surroundings.
Buttle Lake features a waterfall, Lupin Falls. Lupin Falls is placed north of Lower Myra Falls, but it is not the nearest one. You can find two other falls close to Lower Myra Falls; Upper Myra Falls to the west and Della Falls to the south. Della Falls, located in the southern section of the park, is among the top ten highest waterfalls globally and is the highest one in Canada, with an overall drop of 440 meters (1443.5 ft) in three cascades.
From Victoria:
The fastest route to get to Lower Myra Falls is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N. It is 349 km (216.8 miles) and takes about 4 hours and 20 minutes.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-N. After 1.2 km (0.7 miles), follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N to Island Hwy/BC-19A N in Campbell River city. Driver for 264 km (164 mi) and follow Gold River Hwy/BC-28 W and Westmin Rd to your destination in Comox-Strathcona D. After 83.6 km (51.9 miles), you will reach Lower Myra Falls.
From Nanaimo:
The access to Lower Myra Falls from Nanaimo is via BC-19 N. It is 238 km (147.8 miles) and takes about 3 hours.
Take Third St to BC-19 N. After 3.3 km (2miles), turn right onto BC-19 N (signs for Campbell R) for 151 km (93.8 mi). Follow Gold River Hwy/BC-28 W and Westmin Rd to your destination in Comox-Strathcona D. After 83.6 km (51.9 mi), you will reach Lower Myra Falls.
"Lower Myra Falls" is a 1.3 km (0.8 miles) easy loop. This trail is near Strathcona D. The elevation gain is 33 m (108.2 ft), and the best time to use the path is from April to October. It is suitable for hiking, walking, and nature trips. You can enjoy the view of wildflowers, wildlife, and the river running down through the fantastic, lush forest. The atmosphere is so fresh and peaceful. The trail is safe for children and pets, but please keep your pet on a leash for safety.
Myra Falls is named after Myra Ellison's daughter of prince Ellison. Prince Ellison was a member of the exploring team in 1910, which led to the establishment of Strathcona-Westmin Provincial Park. At the center of Strathcona-Westmin Provincial Park, there is a mining operation named Myra Falls, this operation has been running since 1980, and the owner is Nyrstar Myra Falls Ltd.
Mowachanht and the Muchalaht people of Nuu-chah-nulth First Nation are living in the area.
The waterfall provides some activities such as hiking the trail to the fall. The path is so beautiful that it will give hiking a new meaning; the wonderful forest and river make hiking a double pleasure. Lower Myra Falls is so close to Buttle Lake, so you can walk to the lake and enjoy the landscape. If you don't mind swimming in cold waters, the pool under the waterfall is a perfect spot. The water is crystal clear, and the fabulous shades of blue and green take your breath away.
The wildlife of the area is exciting and rich. The Strathcona-Westmin Provincial Park is home to fishes like Rainbow, Dolly Varden, Cutthroat trout, and char. Mammals like Roosevelt elk and beaver also are habitats of the area.
Speaking of the fishes living in Strathcona-Westmin Provincial Park, the good news is that fishing is permitted in the park, so test your chance and see if you can catch a prize.