Best waterfalls around Area A (Kyuquot/Nootka/Sayward) are found within a region known for its diverse natural landscapes on Vancouver Island. This area encompasses Kyuquot, Nootka, and Sayward, featuring waterways, forests, and parts of Strathcona Provincial Park. The terrain offers a variety of natural features, from remote wilderness to more accessible areas, providing opportunities to explore different types of waterfalls. The region's natural features include gorges, rivers, and old-growth forests.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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Elk Falls Park is home to a campground, Elk Falls and year-round salmon fishing. There are multiple restrooms and parking areas around Campbell River. This park works in a close partnership with Indigenous Peoples, and has native artwork for all to enjoy.
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Deer Falls is the middle of three waterfalls in Elk Falls Provincial Park. The drop over the basalt outcrop is minimal, about 1 Meter. Deer Falls probably only became visible after the Campbell River was dammed and the water flow in the river decreased significantly. https://www.worldwaterfalldatabase.com/waterfall/Deer-Falls-1909 While walking along the Riverside Loop Trail you have a good view of Deer Falls – be careful, the rocks are in the danger zone.
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Moose Falls is the uppermost of three waterfalls in Elk Falls Provincial Park on the Campbell River below the John Hart Reservoir. The water flows from the reservoir over Moose Falls into Dolphin Pool. https://www.worldwaterfalldatabase.com/waterfall/Moose-Falls-1908 Walking along the Riverside Loop Trail, you have a good view of Moose Falls and Dolphin Pool with the John Hart Dam in the background - be careful, the rocks are in the danger zone.
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The 27-meter-high Elk Falls are located in Elk Falls Provincial Park near the town of Campbell River. Since 1948, the waters of the river of the same name have been dammed by John Hart Reservoir and largely diverted for hydroelectric power generation. The waterfall maintains a constant flow year-round, although this flow never reaches its original levels. https://www.worldwaterfalldatabase.com/waterfall/Elk-Falls-1910 The Campbell River Hydroelectric Facilities Discovery Centre/Museum at Campbell River displays a photo from December 2016, when BC Hydro released large amounts of water from John Hart Lake to reduce flood risk, plunging it over Elk Falls into the gorge.
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In the Nootka Sound area, you can find Calvin Falls along the Nootka Trail, known for its refreshing pool. Another significant spot is Conuma Gorge Falls near Tahsis, which offers a dramatic series of waterfalls with a powerful flow.
Near Sayward, Big Tree Creek Waterfall is particularly impressive after heavy rain, creating a thundering roar. Another spectacular option is Montague Creek Falls, which flows out of Rooney Lake into the Eve River, accessible via a short hike.
Yes, Strathcona Provincial Park, which is within or adjacent to Area A, features several beautiful waterfalls. These include the multi-tiered Elk Falls, the photogenic Myra Falls, the tall and slender Lady Falls, and Lupin Falls. You can also explore Karst Creek Waterfall, known for its unique geology where water disappears underground.
For families, the trail to Karst Creek Waterfall in Strathcona Provincial Park is a suitable 1.3 km hike through old-growth forests, offering views of Buttle Lake. The short, easy walk to Lupin Falls is also a great option. Additionally, the easy hiking guide for Area A includes trails like the Elk Falls via Millennium Trail loop, which features Elk Falls.
Many waterfalls in Area A, such as Big Tree Creek Waterfall and Lupin Falls, are most impressive after periods of sustained rain or during spring when snowmelt contributes to a more powerful flow. While Elk Falls maintains a constant flow year-round due to hydroelectric regulation, other natural falls will be at their peak during wetter seasons.
The waterfalls in Area A are set within diverse natural landscapes. You'll encounter rugged forests, deep gorges, and rivers. Some falls, like Myra Falls, cascade into vibrant turquoise lakes, while others, such as Karst Creek Waterfall, are found in unique limestone areas where water disappears underground. Old-growth forests and mountain vistas are common backdrops.
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. For instance, the Nootka Trail leads to Calvin Falls, offering a wilderness experience. In Elk Falls Provincial Park, you can explore the Riverside Loop Trail to view Deer Falls and Moose Falls. The hiking guide for Area A also lists trails like the challenging Elk River Trail to Landslide Lake, which features impressive Landslide Falls.
Visitors appreciate the raw beauty and natural allure of the waterfalls. Many enjoy the dramatic displays of nature's power, such as the 'wild drop' of Conuma Gorge Falls or the 'thundering roar' of Big Tree Creek Waterfall after rain. The opportunity for refreshing dips in pools like the one at Calvin Falls is also a highlight, as are the scenic hiking trails leading to these natural wonders.
While not widely publicized, the unnamed Small Waterfall at the Outlet of Dolphin Lake, located between the John Hart Reservoir and Elk Falls, offers a more secluded experience. The journey along the Nootka Trail to Calvin Falls also provides a sense of remote discovery.
Yes, there are cycling routes available in the broader Area A region. The cycling guide for Area A includes options like the Forest Singletrack Trail loop from Grouse Island and the Rotary Seawalk – Graffiti Rock loop from Campbell River, which can be combined with visits to nearby waterfall areas.
Yes, Lupin Falls in Strathcona Provincial Park offers a short, easy walk through the forest, making it ideal for a quick stop. The trail to Lady Falls is also described as an enjoyable short hike. For those near Elk Falls Provincial Park, the easy Elk Falls loop provides accessible views of Elk Falls.
After heavy rain, waterfalls near Sayward, such as Big Tree Creek Waterfall, become particularly powerful. The increased water flow creates a 'thundering roar' and enhances the visual spectacle, making it an excellent time to witness their full force. However, trails might be muddier or steeper in places, so appropriate footwear is recommended.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Area A (Kyuquot/Nootka/Sayward):