Little Qualicum Falls
British Columbia • Little Qualicum Falls Park • 17 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.8 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
15 m
About Little Qualicum Falls
Little Qualicum Falls is a series of cascades and drops on the Little Qualicum River within Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The park features well-maintained short trails, boardwalks and viewing platforms that provide scenic views of the upper and lower falls and the river canyon. Flow is highest in spring and after heavy rain; summer offers calmer pools downstream and surrounding forest and meadow scenery.
The Setting
Little Qualicum Falls sits at 97 metres within Little Qualicum Falls Park, in the coastal lowlands of British Columbia. The falls drop 17 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Little Qualicum Falls flows over Nanaimo Group, a layered sedimentary rock layer deposited about 66-101 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating a 55-foot drop that forms the waterfall.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Englishman River Upper Falls (24 m) lies 17.2 kilometres to the east. Also nearby: Englishman River Falls (24 m, 17.2 km) and Upper Waterfall (17 m, 0.5 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.8-km out-and-back trail gains 15 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trails are short and well-marked. From the parking area a short path and boardwalk lead to the main upper viewpoint and picnic area. A network of short trails and stairs provides access to additional viewpoints of the lower falls and river canyon. Surfaces include packed dirt, boardwalks, and some stairs. Sections can be wet, muddy, or slippery after rain.
What to Expect
The falls drop 17 metres over layered sedimentary rock.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Qualicum Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Qualicum Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring for highest flows and lush green vegetation; early summer for warm weather and calmer pools; fall for foliage color. Winter visits are possible but trails may be icy, muddy or closed, use caution.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Little Qualicum Falls Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
• Slippery rocks, steep banks and fast currents near the falls present serious hazards, do not climb on rocks near the edge. • Water temperature is cold year-round; cold-water shock is a risk. • Flow can increase rapidly during heavy rain or spring snowmelt. • No lifeguards on site. • Cell coverage may be spotty; tell someone your plans and expected return time. • Carry basic first aid and dress for changing weather. • Be bear-aware: store food securely and follow BC Parks guidelines if you encounter wildlife.
Current Water Conditions
2.3 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 37 years of record
4.88 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
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Powell River hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The park is located off Highway 4A/Errington Road on eastern Vancouver Island. From Parksville/Qualicum Beach follow local signage to Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. There is a signed day-use parking area adjacent to the park entrance. Coordinates (provided): 49.3177, -124.5556.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Small day-use parking lot at the park entrance with picnic areas and restroom facilities. Parking can fill on busy summer weekends; no guarantee of parking during peak times. Expect an unpaved or paved lot depending on maintenance season.
Elevation
97 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.317700° N, -124.555642° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Wear sturdy shoes with good traction; boardwalks and rocks can be slippery. • Stay on designated trails and viewing platforms, river edges and rocks are hazardous. • Bring a waterproof layer, camera, and insect repellent in summer. • Arrive early on weekends to secure parking. • Respect posted signs and seasonal closures; do not climb on banks or down to dangerous edges. • If planning to swim downstream, scout the area carefully and avoid fast currents or undercut banks.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
For this easy 0.8 km trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Little Qualicum Falls - Upper Campground
0.8 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, the town of Qualicum Beach/Parksville, Coombs Old Country Market (goats on the roof), Horne Lake Caves (further inland).
Wildlife
Typical Vancouver Island wildlife: black bears (occasionally), deer, raccoons, bald eagles, various waterfowl and songbirds. Salmon runs may occur in the river in season. Exercise standard wildlife precautions.
Cities near Little Qualicum Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Little Qualicum Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.