Whether you’re arriving in Nanaimo, or you’re a local here, you have an incredible amount of options when it comes to chasing waterfalls.

Maybe you’re a photography enthusiast, nature lover, or just someone seeking the peaceful sound of rushing water, this journey will take you to some of Vancouver Island’s most breathtaking spots.

Each location comes with some fun “side quests” that I’ve discovered make the experience even more memorable.

1. Bowen Park

Your waterfall chase begins in the heart of Nanaimo at Bowen Park, where stepping into another world only takes a few minutes. The waterfall here isn’t the biggest you’ll see today, but there’s something magical about finding such serenity right in the city.

While the first set of falls are nice, the real magic is further down the trail to a serene mossy scene The best time to visit is early morning when mist hangs in the air and sunlight filters through the towering Douglas firs. During spring runoff or after a good rain, the waterfall transforms from a gentle cascade to a impressive display of nature’s power. The well-maintained trails make this spot perfect for visitors of all abilities, and the surrounding 36 hectares of parkland offer plenty to explore.

• Side Quest 1: Take a peaceful break at the duck pond – it’s a local favorite where you can often spot wood ducks showing off their colorful feathers.
• Side Quest 2: The park also has a wide range of outdoor activities such as disc golf, a few playgrounds, outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and much more to checkout if you have the time.

2. Ammonite Falls

Hidden in Benson Creek Falls Regional Park, Ammonite Falls feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. The 5.5-kilometer round trip hike takes you through a forest that feels prehistoric – fitting, given the falls’ name comes from the ancient marine fossils embedded in the surrounding rocks. The trail ends with a dramatic reveal of the 15-meter waterfall, which crashes down moss-covered rocks into a crystal-clear pool below. Fair warning: the rope-assisted descent to the base of the falls can be slippery, but the view from the bottom is absolutely worth it. On sunny days, watch for rainbows in the mist!

• • Side Quest 1: Channel your inner paleontologist and search for ammonite fossils in the rock walls. These spiral-shaped treasures are remnants of creatures that lived here millions of years ago.
  • Side Quest 2: Take the Lake View Loop  back for a nice viewpoint

3. Englishman River Falls

Englishman River Falls is where nature really shows off. The upper falls thunder dramatically into a narrow canyon, creating a mist that keeps the surrounding old-growth forest lush and green. The lower falls flow gently, spreading out into gorgeous blue pools that shimmer in the sunlight.

Walking through this park is like traveling back in time – some of these massive cedars and hemlocks have stood here for centuries. The well-placed bridges and viewing platforms make it easy to appreciate both falls from different angles, and the sound of rushing water follows you everywhere. In autumn, the fall colors here are absolutely spectacular.

• • Side Quest 1: Pack a lunch and claim one of the riverside picnic spots. There’s nothing like eating with the soundtrack of rushing water and swaying trees.

4. Little Qualicum Falls

Little Qualicum Falls is nature’s ultimate power display. The falls here don’t just flow – they roar, especially during spring runoff. The park features both upper and lower falls, each with its own personality. The upper falls crash dramatically through a narrow gorge, while the lower falls spread out into a series of cascades that create mesmerizing patterns in the emerald-green pools below. The trails here are like a natural playground, offering different viewpoints that showcase the raw beauty of Vancouver Island’s wilderness. On hot summer days, the mist from the falls creates a refreshing natural air conditioning effect.

• • Side Quest 1: Take the loop trail that connects both falls – each bend in the path reveals a new perspective of these powerful cascades.
  • Side Quest 2: Bring a long lens or binoculars for wildlife spotting. The area is a haven for various bird species, and lucky visitors might spot eagles soaring overhead.

5. Hole in the Wall

Don’t let the name fool you – this unique spot is one of Vancouver Island’s most intriguing water features. Located near Port Alberni, this human-made hole, originally carved for a water pipeline, has been transformed by nature into something extraordinary. Water now flows through the perfectly circular opening in the rock face, creating a fascinating hybrid of industrial history and natural beauty. The short trail to reach it builds anticipation, with the sound of falling water growing louder with each step. The surrounding area has been reclaimed by nature, with ferns and moss creating a green frame for this unusual waterfall.

• • Side Quest 1: Follow the lesser-known trails around the site to discover different angles of this unique water feature.
  • Side Quest 2: End your day at Dog Mountain Brewing in Port Alberni – they had an excellent  combo of drinks & food.

Bonus: China Creek Falls

For those with adventure still in their hearts, China Creek Falls offers a serene finale to your waterfall tour. This hidden gem requires a bit more effort to reach, but that’s part of its charm. The falls create a gentle multi-tiered cascade that seems designed for peaceful contemplation. The surrounding forest feels wilder here, less touched by human hands, and the sound of the falls echoes through the trees in a way that makes you forget the outside world exists. It’s the perfect spot to end your day of exploration.

• • Side Quest 1: The forestry roads around here offer great opportunities for wildlife spotting – keep your eyes peeled for deer and elk.
  • Side Quest 2: If you time it right, watching the sunset through the mist of the falls creates an unforgettable end to your adventure.

Conclusion: This waterfall tour represents the best of what Vancouver Island has to offer – from easily accessible urban gems to hidden forest treasures. Each fall has its own character, its own story to tell, and its own special magic. Pack your hiking boots, bring plenty of water and snacks, and don’t forget your camera – these falls are begging to be photographed. Most importantly, take your time to truly experience each location. The joy isn’t just in seeing the falls, but in discovering all the little moments of wonder along the way.

Before You Go

• Wear good hiking shoes – some of these trails get muddy
• Bring snacks and water – waterfall hunting builds an appetite!
• Don’t forget your camera – these spots are incredibly photogenic
• Check weather conditions – these falls are most impressive after some rain
• Give yourself a FULL day – start early! rushing through these spots defeats the purpose.

Remember, the joy of waterfall hunting isn’t just about the destinations – it’s about the moments of discovery, the peaceful walks through ancient forests, and the simple pleasure of finding these hidden corners of nature. Take your time, soak in the experience, and enjoy some of Vancouver Island’s most beautiful natural wonders.