A hidden gem in Alberni is Sarita Falls. This beautiful set of falls may not seem much in size, but its landscape is out worldly. Sarita Falls
is in the magnificent Sarita River and is located in a rainforest space. When you arrive at the falls, you can feel the aura of magic around you. The fresh air, the forest smell, and the smooth sound of the water pouring down from rocks will amaze you. The atmosphere of the area is so peaceful that it would clear everyone's mind. It is the reason people would spend hours watching and listening without knowing the passage of time.
When you get to the waterfall, be sure to take a picture of the white tree trunk that has fallen on the river; it's exceptionally beautiful, not to mention that it's somehow a sign of the place. If you are a nature enthusiast, you should know that the area is rich with rare wildlife and marine life. Grab a camera and start taking pictures of the fascinating view and exotic wildlife.
Sarita Falls is located in Alberni-Clayoquot A, BC, Canada. It is on the Sarita River and the west side of Vancouver Island. Sarita Lake is very close to the falls and offers many watersports that will make your trip more enjoyable. The falls themselves are in a rainforest area, and the trail to them is not exactly groomed, but it is very scenic and relaxing.
The good thing about these falls is that the Sarita River is also available for water sports so that you can fall from the Sarita Falls with a canoe or kayak. However, "Fall" is a strong word since Sarita Falls is barely higher than a meter; nevertheless, the atmosphere would be mind-blowing.
From Nanaimo:
Getting to Sarita Falls from Nanaimo is via BC-19 N. It is 156 km (97 miles) and takes about 2 hours and a half.
Take BC-19 N and BC-4 W to Franklin River Rd for 87.1 km (54.1 miles). Follow Franklin River Rd, Bamfield Rd, and Bamfield Main to your destination in Alberni-Clayoquot A. Drive 68.6 km (42.6 miles) to reach Sarita Falls.
From Victoria:
Getting to Sarita Falls from Victoria is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N. It is 190 km (118 miles) and takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Take Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N, Cowichan Valley Hwy/BC-18 W, and Youbou Rd to N Shore Rd in Cowichan Valley I. Drive 125 km (77.6 miles) and continue on N Shore Rd to your destination in Alberni-Clayoquot A. After 65 km (40.3 miles), you will reach Sarita Falls.
The trail to Sarita Falls is uneven and full of fallen logs and stuck-out roots, so be careful of your steps. After the first waterfall, there are some steep hills that you need to be cautious of while going up or down; however, there are ropes installed there to help. Going past the second waterfall is challenging. You can either go a long way through the woods or climb the waterfall and be done with it fast, making you wet all over. As you go forward, pay attention to the creaturs in the water and the wildflowers growing alongside the river. It would be a free biology class.
The Sarita River is one of the most important rivers in Huu-ay-aht territory, and it is also known as The Heart of the People. The name "Sarita" drives from a Spanish explorer who mapped this territory. Salmon in the river feeds generations of people. The river also granted safe and easy passage from the ocean to upland areas in Huu-ay-aht territory.
Huu-ay-aht history shows that for thousands of years, the Sarita River was the home of many villages. One of the most important ones is Nuumakimyiis, a traditional winter village near the river.
Sarita Falls is located in a place of potentials for fun activities. One of the simplest is hiking or walking on the rainforest's scenic trails. It is a place with fresh air and a mesmerizing view that will keep you walking without getting tired.
The second fall has a deep pool under it that begs for a good dunking.
The clear and refreshing water is something that will make your day; just give it a chance. Of course, there are other swimming areas in the Sarita River that you enjoy swimming in it. The Sarita River is famous for its massive runs of salmon. Fishing will be rewarding for those who have a license and the right equipment.
If you own a canoe or a kayak, then you're lucky because you get to paddle on the Sarita River. So have the experience of a lifetime with an exceptional view and a forest landscape.
If you are interested in having some more adventures in one of the most popular parks on the west coast of Vancouver Island, drive 25 km (15.5 miles) to the southwest towards Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. It is placed near Bamfield, famous for its amazing old-growth rainforest, spectacular coastal scenery, and long sandy beaches.