Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

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Bordered by steep mountain peaks, impressive waterfalls cascade down a rocky gorge in a beautiful forested setting at this park, one of the most beautiful parks on central Vancouver Island. The falls, swimming, shaded riverside trails and picnic facilities make Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park a very popular family recreation destination. A number of walking trails are available in and around the park, offering picturesque views of the river and providing access to the upper and lower falls.

Established as a park in 1940, this park was formerly a depression era workcamp run by the Forest Service. The workers built the access road, as well as park amenities such as the picnic shelter, tables, fire pits, the bridge over the falls and foot trails within the park. The park was an immediate success, and received glowing reports in the local newpaper.

Today, this park protects the old-growth Douglas fir forest and the associated plant communities, as well as the river and waterfalls. As well as Douglas fir trees, park visitors will see Grand Fir, Western Red Cedar, Pacific Madrona, Lodgepole Pine, Western White Pine, Western Hemlock, Bitter Cherry, Red Alder, and Big Leaf Maple. In addition, the park is home to over 326 species of animals, including small mammals such as Wandering Shrew, Longeared Bat, American Red Squirrel and Beaver. Large mammals expected to range within the park include: American Black Bear, Cougar, Coast Deer, Wolves and Elk.

Come and visit Little Qualicum Falls as a destination park or as an ideal stopover spot for exploring the many activities in the Parksville/Qualicum or Port Alberni areas.”

by Tammy Liddicoat