Upper Myra Falls Vancouver Island
Discover the breathtaking Upper Myra Falls, a stunning cascade reached via a scenic hike through Vancouver Island's ancient forests.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Falls are even more spectacular!
Upper Myra Falls Vancouver Island
Best Time
Falls are even more spectacular!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the breathtaking Upper Myra Falls, a stunning cascade reached via a scenic hike through Vancouver Island's ancient forests.
"Beautiful falls at the end making it a worthwhile trek."
🚗 Mining Road Access
Keep going through the active mining area; signs will guide you to the trailhead. :construction:
🥾 Trekking Poles Recommended
The trail has steep, rocky, and rooty sections, making walking sticks very helpful. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper Myra Falls
Strathcona Provincial Park
A stunning cascade tucked away in old-growth forest, rewarding hikers with breathtaking natural beauty.
Old-Growth Forest Trail
Trail to Upper Myra Falls
Wander through majestic ancient trees, keeping an eye out for unique sights like a giant fir stump.
Lower Myra Falls
Near Upper Myra Falls trailhead
A shorter, more accessible waterfall experience, perfect for a quick visit after the main hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Mining Road
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Mining Road Access
Keep going through the active mining area; signs will guide you to the trailhead.
🥾 Trekking Poles Recommended
The trail has steep, rocky, and rooty sections, making walking sticks very helpful. :athletic_shoe:
⏱️ Hike Duration
Expect about 2 hours for the 7.2km round trip hike at a good pace. :stopwatch:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera to capture the beautiful falls and the ancient forest scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Mining Road Access
Keep going through the active mining area; signs will guide you to the trailhead.
🥾 Trekking Poles Recommended
The trail has steep, rocky, and rooty sections, making walking sticks very helpful. :athletic_shoe:
⏱️ Hike Duration
Expect about 2 hours for the 7.2km round trip hike at a good pace. :stopwatch:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera to capture the beautiful falls and the ancient forest scenery.
💧 Swim if Warm
If the weather is warm, consider taking a dip in the beautiful waters. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Upper Myra Falls for its stunning natural beauty and the rewarding hike through an old-growth forest. The waterfalls are described as spectacular, making the trek worthwhile. Some note the trail's steep and rocky sections, recommending walking sticks for easier navigation. The drive through the mining area can be a point of initial confusion but is manageable with clear signage.
"Out and back trail with steep inclines and rocky/rooty areas. Walking sticks are a great help traversing areas. Beautiful falls at the end making it a worthwhile trek."
Carol Berry
"The region's natural beauty is on full display, with beautiful waterfalls and a scenic drive from Campbell River or Gold River. Campgrounds and day-use picnic areas are available, along with trails and scenic views. The trail from the parking lot to the waterfall is steep for most of the walk."
Alison Cherry
"This place was quite beautiful. It was a chilly day that we went but otherwise we would’ve swam! So pretty and we took lots of pics"
Nicole Kolder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive to Upper Myra Falls involves navigating through an active mining area. Follow the signs, and don't be concerned if it feels like you're on private property. The trailhead parking lot has a provincial park map to guide you.
The drive itself can be on unpaved roads through a mining area, so a vehicle with decent clearance is advisable. The main challenge is the hike once you reach the trailhead.
Myra Falls is located at the opposite end of Buttle Lake, making paddleboarding a very long and potentially impractical journey. It's best accessed by car and then hiking.
The drive from either Campbell River or Gold River offers scenic views as you approach Strathcona Provincial Park, leading you towards the Myra Falls area.
Yes, there is a parking lot at the trailhead for Upper Myra Falls. It's also where you'll find a provincial park map to help orient yourself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Upper Myra Falls is located within Strathcona Provincial Park, which generally does not require an entrance fee for day use. However, it's always good to check the BC Parks website for any specific regulations or potential fees.
As an outdoor natural attraction, Upper Myra Falls is accessible year-round during daylight hours. The park itself has no set closing times, but it's advisable to plan your visit during daylight for safety.
Typically, parking at provincial park trailheads like Upper Myra Falls is free. However, it's wise to confirm this with BC Parks or local information sources before your visit.
Absolutely! Lower Myra Falls is a much shorter hike (around 1.3 km round trip) and is often visited in conjunction with Upper Myra Falls.
Standard park rules apply, including respecting wildlife and leaving no trace. Check BC Parks for any seasonal advisories or closures, especially regarding wildlife activity.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is approximately 7.2 km round trip and typically takes about 2 hours to complete at a good pace.
The trail is considered moderate, with steep inclines and rocky/rooty sections. Walking sticks are highly recommended for stability.
You'll hike through beautiful old-growth forests, with the reward of stunning waterfalls at the end. Keep an eye out for unique natural features like large fir stumps.
Yes, if the weather is warm enough, the falls and surrounding pools are a beautiful spot for a refreshing swim.
Yes, Strathcona Provincial Park offers day-use picnic areas, which can be a great spot to relax before or after your hike.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, but the falls are impressive in any weather. Rainy days can add dramatic atmosphere.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and the surrounding forest. A tripod can help with long exposures, especially in lower light.
The main viewpoint is at the base of the falls, offering a direct look. Exploring slightly around the area can reveal different angles and perspectives.
Yes, you can get quite close to the base of the falls. Be mindful of slippery rocks and the spray from the water.
Focus on the scale of the trees and the dappled light filtering through the canopy. Look for interesting textures and patterns in the bark and moss.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the dramatic waterfalls and the lush forest environment. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and consider walking sticks for added stability on the trail. 📸 Photographers
+1 The best light for photography is often during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon, but the falls are impressive in any weather, with rain adding a moody atmosphere. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the falls and the surrounding forest, and a tripod can be invaluable for long exposures, especially in lower light conditions. Be prepared for slippery rocks near the water's edge and the spray from the falls. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Upper Myra Falls
The trail is well-marked, but the initial drive through an active mining area can be a point of confusion for some. Rest assured, following the signs will lead you to the designated parking lot and trailhead.
The effort is widely considered worthwhile, with the spectacular waterfalls serving as the ultimate prize. Strathcona Provincial Park: A Natural Gem
The park is a haven for wildlife, and visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings, though sightings of larger animals like bears are not uncommon, and usually, they are long gone by the time hikers arrive. Beyond Upper Myra Falls, the park boasts other attractions like the more easily accessible Lower Myra Falls, which is a shorter, family-friendly walk.
Campgrounds and day-use picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, providing excellent facilities for those wishing to extend their stay and explore more of what Strathcona has to offer. The park's natural beauty is a significant draw, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and hikers exploring Vancouver Island. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit