A Snowy Forest Hike to Ammonite Falls

Memories of Ammonite Falls

I still remember my first visit to Ammonite Falls several years ago. It was quite the little journey, using rope ties to navigate a steep, muddy decline to reach the river below. The effort was well worth it, and the view of the falls from the water was truly remarkable.

Planning for the Perfect Snowfall

Considering how rare snowfall is on the island, I started compiling a list of places I wanted to capture so I wouldn’t be caught off guard when it arrives. I’ve always been obsessed with the way snow transforms even the most familiar places into a completely new environment.

However, trying to align this ambition with the realities of daily life—managing work schedules, family responsibilities, and personal commitments—presented a challenge of its own. Finding the perfect moment when everything aligned seemed almost as elusive as the snowfall itself. Yet, the dream of capturing these places blanketed in snow kept the idea alive, motivating me to stay prepared for that rare opportunity when snow graced the island.

The Last Day of Snow

The initial snowfalls of the season were fleeting, melting away almost as soon as they arrived. Thus, when a substantial snowfall finally occurred, it breathed new life into my favourite locations and presented a rare window of opportunity to capture something unique.

Today marked the third and likely final day of snow at Benson Creek Park, prompting us to seize the moment. The decision was made quickly, and we gathered essentials for a winter hike with our toddler in tow, packed the Jeep and hit the road. We always make an extra effort to get out in the snow with Zo and this was not just a hike, but a chance to create new memories with the excitement the snow brings.

Entering the Enchanted Forest

As we entered the forest, we were greeted by the towering trees that seemed to stretch endlessly into the sky. The “alleyway of the giants,” as I like to call it, is a humbling reminder of nature’s grandeur. Walking under this canopy gave the forest an almost cathedral-like atmosphere, with the high trees forming a natural roof above.

Flurries of snowflakes mingled with light drizzle, creating a whimsical dance in the air, while the path below grew wet and slick. Navigating the small hills of the forest demanded caution, particularly while carrying little Zo in a backpack. The journey was a harmonious mix of challenge and wonder, with each step grounding us in the present moment, aware of the beauty surrounding us.

Navigating the Path to Benson Creek

As we approached the first small stream, the snow gave way to the trail, revealing a quaint wooden walk bridge. This transition from snow to bridge highlighted the contrast and interplay of elements—water meeting snow in a serene and picturesque scene. Joanna, with her natural grace and composure, carried Zo while I took on the task of testing the trail’s declines, encountering the occasional slip or slide.

Joanna’s confidence and sure-footedness were reassuring, making her the perfect partner for these ventures. Our journey, with the comforting sound of the stream as our guide, was a joy, blending the thrill of exploration with the serene beauty of the snow-blanketed landscape.

The forest opened up to partially excavated areas and logging roads before leading us back into the trees along a marshier path. As we neared the river, the sound of the waterfall grew louder, indicating we were close to our destination.

Typically, the hike to the falls takes about 45 minutes, but with the snow and carrying Zo, it took us an hour. Thankfully, Nanaimo had recently installed a new stair set and viewing deck, making the area more accessible.

Capturing the Beauty

Recently installed stairs and a viewing deck made accessing the falls more straightforward, though the stairs were quite slick from the packed snow. Joanna, ever skilled, navigated them with ease. The first viewing deck offered a glimpse of the falls but lacked the ideal angle for capturing its full beauty.

However, the second deck provided a stellar vantage point, offering an unobstructed view of the falls framed by snow, cascading water, and the lush green of moss-covered trees. This unique scene, combining natural elements in a way so different from the waterfalls of the East Coast, was something to behold. Descending the final set of steps brought us to the base of the falls, where we paused for a snack and allowed Zo to stretch her legs and explore.

Balancing the Adventure

With Zo, time was of the essence. I needed to be efficient in capturing the moment through a mix of videos, long exposure photographs, and quick iPhone shots. Capturing a photo of Zo at the falls was a must, yet we also had to maintain a balance—keeping her fed, warm, and content to ensure the experience was enjoyable for her, too.

Usually, this isn’t an issue, but today’s cold weather and her approaching nap time required mindful attention. Despite the challenge of wet snow and rain on the lens, capturing the long exposure photo of the falls was a priority. As Zo’s nap time drew nearer, I ventured higher up the hillside to explore different vantage points, capturing a variety of angles to ensure the day’s efforts resulted in images that would be treasured.

The Journey Back

Before retracing our steps, I paused to take in the scene one last time—the snow-covered riverbanks, the fallen trees, and the continual flow of water. I turned to see Jo and Zo waving and smiling, a moment that filled me with gratitude. Our adventurous daughter, who embraces these outings with enthusiasm, and my supportive partner, who constantly inspires and encourages our explorations, were reminders of how fortunate I am. These are the moments I hold dear, ones that will warm my heart long after the snow has melted.

The hike back provided the perfect opportunity for Zo’s nap. As we made our way through the forest, the weather shift was palpable. The humidity increased, and fog began to roll in, creating a mystical atmosphere as it wove its way through the trees. The return journey, framed by this ethereal backdrop, was a fitting conclusion to a day spent immersed in nature’s wintery embrace. This adventure at Benson Creek Park was a reminder of the simple yet profound joys of nature and the precious memories made with family.