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Skutz Falls

A beautiful sight on the Cowichan River and the cherry on top of Cowichan River Provincial Park is Skutz Falls. This little waterfall is so full of natural energy that the mere sight of it makes you excited. The water pours down from about 6 m (20 ft) height, and since the water runs fast at Skutz Falls, it gets sprayed and creates a mist. It reflects the sunlight, and you may see a little rainbow. Also, from the falls viewpoint, you have the best view of the human-made fish ladder.
For an unforgettable experience, summer is an excellent season to visit the waterfall. It is the time when you can escape the heat by swimming in the wonderfully blue water, but no matter in which season you visit, you are bound to be amazed by Skutz Falls and the beauty of its surrounding.
Cowichan River Provincial Park can be seen at your convenience, enjoy a marvellous view without worrying about a single thing. The beautiful forest surrounding Skutz Falls will be an excellent background for your photos of the falls.
The good thing about Skutz Falls is that there is a campground near it. It seems that a dream come true to wake up by the smooth melody of the water pouring down. All in all, Skutz Falls is a perfect place to spend a weekend with your family or friend. Not only would you be stunned by the view, but you can also enjoy good service.


Skutz Falls Location

Skutz Falls is located in Cowichan Valley F, BC V0R 2G0, Canada. On Cowichan River and in Cowichan River Provincial Park, Skutz Falls is east of Vancouver Island and close to Lake Cowichan.
Skutz Falls is located in a forest space, and you can see a fish ladder; and if you visit during a salmon spawning season, you will see the exceptional sight of salmons climbing up the ladder. The scenic Cowichan River Provincial Park has a rich history of first nations and beautiful nature with good service. The park is kid-friendly and pet-friendly but remember to keep your pet on a leash and pick up their excrement.


How to Get to Skutz Falls by Car

From Nanaimo:
The fastest route to get to Skutz Falls from Nanaimo is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S and Cowichan Valley Hwy/BC-18 W. It is 66.2 km (41.1 miles) and takes about 50 minutes.
Start your trip from Wallace St toward Fraser St and continue for 350 m (1148.2 ft). Turn slightly right to Victoria Crescent. After 170 m (557.7 ft) turn left onto Esplanade. Go for 36 m (118.1 ft) and turn right onto Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S. Drive 45.1 km (28 miles) and turn right onto Cowichan Valley Hwy/BC-18 W. After 18.9 km (11.7 miles), turn left onto Skutz Falls Rd. Drive 1.7 km (1 mile) more to reach Skutz Falls Rd.

From Victoria:
Getting to Skutz Falls from Victoria is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N. It is 85.7 km (53.2 miles) and takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Head west on Pandora Ave toward Government St and continue for 99 m (235 ft). Turn right onto Government St. After 1.0 km (0.6 miles), slight right toward Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N. Go for 72 m (236.2 ft) and use any lane to turn left onto Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N. Drive 63.9 km (39.7 miles) and turn left onto Cowichan Valley Hwy/BC-18 W. Continue 18.9 km (11.7 miles) and turn left onto Skutz Falls Rd. After 1.7 km (1 mile), you will reach Skutz Falls Rd.


The Hike to Get to Skutz Falls

"Skutz Falls" trail is a 6.9 km (4.2 miles) moderate level loop with mild traffic. The trail is near Cowichan Valley F, British Columbia, Canada. It features a waterfall and is suitable for hiking, walking, and nature trips, with an elevation gain of 142 m (466 ft). This trail goes through the forest, gets over the Stoltz Bluff, and then goes back to Mayo Road. After you arrive at Mayo Road, turn right and cross the bridge. During your hike, pay attention to the wildflowers and the wildlife around; you might spot an exotic animal. The best time to use the Skutz Falls trail is from April until September.


History of Skutz Falls

The name of the waterfall, Skutz Falls, originally comes from Skwets or Squitz, meaning "waterfall" in the Cowichan language of Halkomelem. Cowichan, which comes from the Coast Salish word 'Khowutzun' meaning 'land warmed by the sun.'
The area is rich in history. The Cowichan Valley is home to several first nations, and the Cowichan is the name for many villages on eastern Vancouver Island.


Things to do around the Skutz Falls Area

Like any other world-class landmark, Cowichan River Provincial Park has a lot of activities to offer, such as kayaking and canoeing. Paddling is very popular in Cowichan River Provincial Park, and it's available in the Stoltz Pool day-use area. The best time for it is from October to June, that's when you get the best water current.
Biking is a relaxing activity, especially with the park, forest, and river landscape. Remember, biking is limited to roadways.
The Cowichan River is very rewarding when it comes to anglers. This river is one of the two rivers in BC known to have Brown trout.
Cowichan River Provincial Park has a vast network of trails going all over the park. The scenic trails clear the mind and refresh your soul.
A very exhilarating activity available in the park is horseback riding so that you can enjoy the park differently. The only problem with that is it's only permitted on Trans-Canada Trail.
The clear Cowichan River is getting famous for its snorkelling and scuba diving. These adventures allow you to see marine life better.
For swimming, you can't possibly find a better place and below Skutz Falls. Just imagine the rush of swimming under the Skutz Falls with water spraying on your face.

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls Near Skutz Falls

Skutz Falls

Skutz Falls

Made from the blue snake of the Cowichan River, Skutz Falls is a little waterfall at Cowichan River Provincial Park about bout 6 m (20 ft) in height. Stand at the falls' viewpoint to have a scene of the human-made fish ladder where the river's fast current splashes water on your face. Camping nearby and using the services would complete your journey for having more hours of adventure in the area.

Skutz Falls Activities

Wildlife viewing, Bird watching

The park's wildlife includes cougars, black-tailed deer, bears, and birds like osprey, hawks, and owls.

Fishing

Marine Life of the Cowichan River is so rich that you couldn't leave without a catch. Coho, Chinook and chum salmon, steelhead and Rainbow, Brown and Cutthroat trout are just examples of the species living in the Cowichan River.

Swimming

What an exciting activity swimming would be under Skutz Falls. However, Stoltz Pool day-use area is a decent place for swimming as well.

Hiking

Hiking on the trails of the Cowichan River Provincial Park is something you can't miss. The trails are so picturesque that they will carve into your brain.

Camping

The park's campsites are at Stoltz Pool and Horseshoe Bend.

Cycling

Biking is only allowed on the roadways and Trans-Canada Trail. Bicycle riding on hiking trails is forbidden. Note that you must wear helmets while biking.

Boating (motorized boat)

A boat lunch is available in the Stoltz Pool day-use area, and you find parking near the boat lunch.

Kayaking, Canoeing

The Cowichan River is available for paddling all year, but due to the river's strong current, the safer place is the Stoltz Pool day-use area.

Geocaching

You have to find the cache in one of the most stunning spots in the area.

What you Can Expect to Do Near Skutz Falls

West Coast Outdoor Adventure Whale Watching

West Coast Outdoor Adventure Whale Watching

As one of the best tourist attractions of Sooke and Vancouver Island, West Coast comprises many outdoor excitements that cannot be denied. You are provided with different wildlife to watch and various food to eat, not to mention that you observe a rare nature that is outstanding. So, chances are high to see different whales and other marine creatures.

Nitinat Triangle Kayaking and Canoeing

Nitinat Triangle Kayaking and Canoeing

Nitinat Triangle provides an excellent opportunity for those fearless paddlers that lets them set their adventure-thirsty souls on fire. Schedule your trip to Nitinat Triangle when you have 4 or 5 days free. The triangle features campsite facilities and magnetic vies of the land.

Shawnigan Lake Kayaking and Canoeing

Shawnigan Lake Kayaking and Canoeing

If you are a paddling enthusiast and happen to visit Vancouver Island during summer times, put Shawnigan Lake on top of your list. The lake is enclosed with fabulous parks in which you are provided with tons of recreational activities. Lakeside cabins, several beaches and a spectacular shoreline make Shawnigan Lake a fantastic hot spot for kayaking and canoeing.

Boeing 737 Jet Plane Diving

Boeing 737 Jet Plane Diving

You cannot believe your ears are hearing a diving place made after a Jet Plane was sunk. But, there is only one way to find out, especially for divers who like abnormal experiences. While you are in Chemainus, you can rent a boat and paddle till you reach this place, offering you unbelievable diving opportunities.

Camping in the Gordon Bay Campsite

Camping in the Gordon Bay Campsite

Choose wisely to make your stay on Vancouver Island unforgettable. Camping in the Gordon Bay Camp Site can give you the chance to have a retreat from daily bustles in a perfect and clean with a quiet atmosphere. It has a lovely swimming area surrounded by log booms in which you can bathe and relax for unnoticeable hours.

Cowichan Lake Wakeboarding and Waterskiing

Cowichan Lake Wakeboarding and Waterskiing

Wandering around the second-largest lake on Vancouver Island, you are blessed with ample chances of different water sports. Natural features observable in this region adds up to the beauty and attractiveness of your stay and make your memories hard to forget. If you are interested in doing other activities, there are various adventures to embrace.

Cowichan Lake Windsurfing

Cowichan Lake Windsurfing

You would have the chance to re-invent your expectation of windsurfing by embracing the opportunities given to you on the second-largest lake of Vancouver Island. Cowichan Lake does not only serve your desires for windsurfing and is a paradise for those in love with water activities. If you are looking for a time to make the most of it in the Cowichan Lake area, plan to come during April.

Nitinat Lake Kiteboarding

Nitinat Lake Kiteboarding

All Five senses come together to give the possibility to experience the endless adventure in the Nitinat Lake area. As one of the destinations for consistent winds, Nitinat Lake is a popular place for windsurfing. This lake with long, narrow, and strongly salt-stratified water offers you the best opportunities to fulfil your desires for adventure, kiteboarding in particular.

Skutz Falls Outline

Specifications

Climate

Timing

1. All the climate data are on average for Cowichan River Provincial Park.

What you Can Expect to See Near Skutz Falls

Duncan

Duncan

The city of Duncan is famous for its totem collection. Duncan's tourist attractions and activities include shops and restaurants, great vineyards, kayaking the rivers and ocean, hiking the Trans Canada Trail, or the farmers' market. The city offers Cowichan Performing Arts Centre with amazing shows, restaurants, pubs, and Duncan Showroom (a live music venue) for entertainment.

Lake Cowichan

Lake Cowichan

Lake Cowichan is a town east of Cowichan Lake, the second most untouched lake in BC. The town is west of the Trans Canada Trail, the longest recreational and multi-use trail network globally. Lake Cowichan has a beautiful mountainous area with plentiful wildlife and is a perfect place for outdoor adventures. Lake Cowichan has warm waters and a sandy beach for a family swim.

Nitinat Caves

Nitinat Caves

Caves teach us to face our fears. They are signs of history and are full of secrets. Nitinat Caves are a series of small and not very deep caves between Bamfield and Port Renfrew. It needs a sharp eye to find the entrance along the river. Water flows in them, and they lead you to a canyon with gem green water perfect for swimming. The caves offer you beauty and great scenes.

Skutz Falls

Skutz Falls

Made from the blue snake of the Cowichan River, Skutz Falls is a little waterfall at Cowichan River Provincial Park about bout 6 m (20 ft) in height. Stand at the falls' viewpoint to have a scene of the human-made fish ladder where the river's fast current splashes water on your face. Camping nearby and using the services would complete your journey for having more hours of adventure in the area.

Seymour Range

Seymour Range

The Seymour Range is a small mountain range that comprises the hills and mountains between the San Juan River and the valley of Lake Cowichan. High quality of hiking up at the peaks, is the surrounding mountains and scenery of valleys and hills covered with lush forest. Experience an enriching journey in the nearby Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park and Cowichan Lake.

West Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park

West Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park

At the northwest shore of West of Shawnigan Lake, there is a dawn to dusk area, with a Douglas fir forest and a delightful beach known as Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park. Being there with your family and friends and spending your time swimming, canoeing, waterskiing, and windsurfing would refresh your body and soul. The park is a habitat for many animals.

Cowichan River Provincial Park

Cowichan River Provincial Park

Witness the miracle of nature at Cowichan River Provincial Park coming with human heritage and recreational values. Marie Canyon and Skutz Falls are the prime viewpoints to watch spawning salmon in the fall. Have a picnic at the end of a day of hiking, biking, or horseback riding through excellent trails. On your journey, don't forget to look around, watching animal species and birds.

Memory Island Provincial Park

Memory Island Provincial Park

Memory Island Provincial Park is one of the smallest parks in British Columbia. Its peaceful and beautiful nature makes it an excellent choice for picnicking. As it is placed in Shawnigan Lake, you can catch some fish like trout. Also, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking are possible. In addition, the park is home to various birds, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, plants, and fungi.

Koksilah River

Koksilah River

Go to a river to feel alive as its current. The Koksilah River can be your place. It originates on the slopes of Waterloo Mountain and continues its way to reach Cowichan Bay. On hot summer days, being there to swim in the valley could be refreshing. This river has a distinct beauty and various rocky canyons, waterfalls and rapids to a wide river. There are many species of birds to watch.

Nitinat Lake

Nitinat Lake

Let's get lost in the west coast nature and find ourselves beside a lake following the smell of the Pacific Ocean. Nitinat Lake is beyond your expectations, kiteboarding heaven and a windsurfers' choice. Cruise the cool and clean water and explore freshwater coves and inlets. Get more of your visit with Nitinat Caves and the underground world of Looper Creek Canyon.

Cowichan Lake

Cowichan Lake

Let's explore the second-largest lake on Vancouver Island. Cowichan Lake is the major recreational place in the Cowichan region and famous for paddling. It has some of the best hiking trails, several campsites, and chances for water-based activities. Get ready for this new experience, and we will strive to assist you in making your visit the best it can be.

Cowichan River

Cowichan River

Are you interested in spring and summer plans on Vancouver Island? The Cowichan River, the fourth largest river on Vancouver Island, provides you with guided hiking and backpacking trips. Cowichan River Provincial Park protects the Cowichan River's essential stretches. Start from Lake Cowichan to Cowichan Bay and the Strait of Georgia to expand your adventure around the Cowichan River.

Planning for Skutz Falls

Suitability

Camping & Resort

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