Knarston Waterfall
British Columbia • 12 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
135 m
About Knarston Waterfall
Knarston Waterfall is reported at coordinates 49.2338, -124.1249 on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, roughly 12.9 miles from Nanaimo, ~42.7 miles from Vancouver (across water), and ~49.7 miles from Powell River. Exact, authoritative trail and height information is limited; this description synthesizes typical conditions for small inland Vancouver Island falls and available location context. Visitors should treat specific access details as provisional and verify with local sources before travel.
The Setting
Knarston Waterfall sits at 236 metres in the foothills of British Columbia. The falls drop 12 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Knarston Waterfall flows over hard intrusive rock laid down about 162-175 million years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating a 39-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Ammonite Falls (20 m) lies 6.0 kilometres to the southeast.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.0-km loop trail gains 135 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Detailed, reliably sourced trail descriptions for Knarston Waterfall are not readily available. The approach may be a short forested scramble or a short marked/unmarked trail from a nearby road. Expect singletrack through coastal temperate rainforest with roots, wet ground, and possibly steep or rocky creekside sections. Where trails are informal, routefinding skills and attention to recent trip reports are recommended.
What to Expect
The falls drop 12 metres over hard intrusive rock.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Knarston Waterfall?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Knarston Waterfall?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring and early summer for higher flows and lush forest; summer for easier road/trail access and drier trails. Fall can offer good water flow but may bring wet, slippery conditions. Winter may be wet and muddy with short daylight hours, only recommended for prepared hikers.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include slippery rocks, steep or unstable banks, fast or deep water near the falls, sudden flow increases after rain, and limited cell service. Rock hopping and getting close to the lip of a waterfall is dangerous, keep a safe distance and supervise children closely. Check for seasonal logging operations or closures before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
0.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 41 years of record
1.13 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Nanaimo hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The waterfall lies on Vancouver Island near Nanaimo. Access may require driving secondary or forest service roads and then a short hike. Road and trail conditions can be variable; a high-clearance vehicle may be helpful on unpaved roads. Confirm access with local land managers, park offices, or recent visitor reports before heading out.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking may be limited and informal (pullouts or small trailhead parking). There may be no official lot or facilities. Park legally and avoid blocking roads or private driveways.
Elevation
236 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.233786° N, -124.124866° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Check recent trip reports or local rangers for up-to-date access and road conditions. • Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear with good traction; rocks and logs near the falls can be very slippery. • Carry a map, compass or GPS; trails may be informal and not well signed. • Leave no trace: pack out all waste. • Be bear-aware: carry bear spray where recommended and follow local guidance. • Respect private property and posted closures; do not trespass.
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With 4.0 km and 135 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Snaw Naw As Campground
2.2 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby population centers include Nanaimo and coastal recreation areas. Depending on the exact landing and access route, nearby attractions may include regional parks, beaches, and other Vancouver Island natural sites, confirm specifics with local visitor information.
Wildlife
Typical Vancouver Island wildlife may be present: black bears, cougars (rare), deer, black-tailed deer, eagles, and various smaller mammals and birds. Ticks can be present in underbrush. Practice wildlife safety and secure food.
Cities near Knarston Waterfall
Nearby Waterfalls
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