Upper Nanaimo Falls
British Columbia • 10 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
About Upper Nanaimo Falls
Upper Nanaimo Falls is a waterfall on Vancouver Island associated with the Nanaimo River system. Located near the west coast of the island (coordinates 49.0764, -124.4203), the falls are typically a multi-tiered cascade with strongest flow in spring and early summer. Exact published trail details and a confirmed official height are not consistently documented, so some route and feature descriptions below may be approximate.
The Setting
Upper Nanaimo Falls sits at 360 metres in the foothills of British Columbia. The falls drop 10 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Upper Nanaimo Falls flows over Island Plutonic Suite, a hard intrusive rock layer deposited about 162-201 million years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating a 32-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail approaches are generally forested singletrack or rough footpaths that may include roots, rocks, muddy sections, and some steep or slippery sections near the creek and viewpoint. Trails in the Nanaimo River area are sometimes only lightly maintained and can require route-finding; expect a natural, possibly rugged approach rather than a developed boardwalk. Near the falls, terrain may be steep with uneven ledges and no guardrails.
What to Expect
The falls drop 10 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 Upper Nanaimo Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Nanaimo Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (late snowmelt and seasonal rains) for highest water flow; summer for easier trail access and drier conditions; fall for lower crowds and seasonal color. Winter may be icy or inaccessible, use caution.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery wet rocks, steep drop-offs, flashier flows after heavy rain, cold water and strong currents, falling rock or logs, and limited cell coverage. Always stay off the edge, supervise children, avoid getting too close to fast-flowing water, and avoid cliff-edge scrambling. Check weather and recent trip reports before visiting. In bear country, carry bear spray and follow safety protocols.
Current Water Conditions
0.8 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 54 years of record
0.71 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge JUMP CREEK AT THE MOUTH (18 km away).
Today
Moderate
0.8 m³/s
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
0.9 m³/s
6/10Tue
Moderate
0.9 m³/s
6/10Wed
Moderate
0.9 m³/s
6/10Thu
Moderate
0.9 m³/s
6/10Fri
Moderate
0.9 m³/s
6/10Sat
Moderate
0.9 m³/s
5/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, cloudy (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early November to late December, peaking in November.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest WSC stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
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 falls lie on Vancouver Island west of Nanaimo (approximately 25 miles by road as the crow flies). Access usually requires driving on local and forestry/park access roads and then hiking on a trail or informal path to a viewpoint. Cell coverage may be limited in places; consult local maps, recent trip reports (e.g., AllTrails or regional park pages), and forestry notices before you go. Carry GPS coordinates 49.0764, -124.4203 for navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is typically limited to small pullouts or informal roadside areas; there may not be a developed parking lot or facilities. Expect dirt/gravel parking and no services. Park considerately and avoid blocking gates or private driveways.
Elevation
360 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.076368° N, -124.420292° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Check recent trip reports or park/forest service pages for route condition and access changes. 2) Wear sturdy, grippy footwear and bring rain gear. 3) Stay off wet rocks and maintain a safe distance from the edge, there may be no formal barriers. 4) Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace. 5) Let someone know your plans and expected return time. 6) Be bear-aware: carry bear spray and store food securely.
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
Labour Day Lake Recreation Site
6 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nanaimo and its waterfront (ferries to nearby islands), regional parks and hiking routes on Vancouver Island. Exact nearby named attractions depend on the specific access point used, check local maps for nearby parks and recreation sites.
Wildlife
Possible encounters with black bears, cougars (rare), deer, bald eagles, waterfowl and salmon runs in season. Be bear-aware and store food properly.
Cities near Upper Nanaimo Falls
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