The best waterfall hikes and walks in Upper Puntledge River Woodlands
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Waterfall hiking trails in Upper Puntledge River Woodlands traverse a rainforest environment characterized by towering conifers and ancient trees draped in moss. The region features scenic views along the Puntledge River, which flows from Comox Lake, and includes notable natural attractions like Nymph Falls. The diverse landscape offers a mix of riverside paths, forest trails, and unique ecosystems such as the Puntledge Bog, providing varied terrain for hikers.
Best waterfall hiking trails in Upper Puntledge River Woodlands
- The most popular…
Last updated: August 27, 2026
7
hikers
3.34km
00:54
50m
50m
Hike the easy 2.1-mile Medicine Bowls trail to discover unique rock pools and waterfalls in the Comox Valley, British Columbia.
5.0
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3
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
hikers
1.76km
00:29
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
1.01km
00:17
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
You can swim at the falls, or simply hike in to enjoy the cascading waters as they form multiple spouts tumbling over a wall of natural stone into a long, oblong clear basin. There are a few nice pools to enjoy here, and you can keep walking down to Browns River to hop along the stepping stones in its flow.
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You can park on Piercy Road across from the yellow gate under the power lines, by the K'omos Treat Lands sign. From here, walk past the yellow gate and follow the powerline trail for a short ways to reach the turnoff for the falls.
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For Browns River Falls, take a right hand turn onto the singletrack path that winds away from the power lines. If instead you keep straight, you will find a couple other singletrack trails that lead you down to a flatter section of the river.
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The Puntledge River Trail is a fantastic way to explore the banks of the Puntledge River and Bevan City ruins. This area has bears, so be bear aware, and don't leave food in parked cars. The trail itself is really flat and well-maintained and passes through tall second growth forests with wonderful river viewpoints and a few swimming holes along the way.
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The Puntledge River flows 48 kilometres from Comox Lake until reaching the Strait of Georgia. This river is teeming with life, with massive salmon runs as well as great swimming, tubing and hiking opportunities. Be careful when taking a dip as many areas have strong currents, so choose designated swimming holes in calm parts of the river.
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Here, and scattered through Puntledge Forest, are ruins of old coal industrial infrastructure. What remains of this once busy industry are intakes, flumes, penstocks, cement foundations, scattered bricks, and remnants of chimneys from the original 20th-century coal mining settlement. Be careful while exploring for unstable structures, glass and more.
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This trail is a short forest walk that follows a well-trodden path through second-growth forest as it approaches the river canyon. Most of the route is relatively easy to follow, though it can be slippery as you get close to the falls, with rope-assisted sections leading down to the river at the base. Despite its short length, the combination of forest, river sounds, and rugged terrain makes it feel like a more adventurous trek than you'd expect.
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This trailhead is right next to the Inland Island Highway near the Trent River Bridge, with informal roadside parking available on either side of the highway. However, the northbound shoulder offers the easiest access if you’re looking for quick access to the falls. From here, a wide gravel track leads into second-growth forest toward the falls, but there is no formal trailhead signage, so the entrance is easy to miss. Since parking is close to the highway, be sure to park carefully and avoid blocking access or traffic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are available in the Upper Puntledge River Woodlands?
There are 3 dedicated waterfall hiking trails in the Upper Puntledge River Woodlands featured in this guide. These include 2 easy routes and 1 moderate route, offering options for various fitness levels.
Are there any easy or family-friendly waterfall hikes in the area?
Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Medicine Bowls trail. It's a shorter route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Another accessible choice is the Trent River Falls trail, which also offers an easy walk to a beautiful waterfall.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls for maximum flow?
The waterfalls in the Upper Puntledge River Woodlands, particularly Nymph Falls, are often at their most impressive during the spring melt and after periods of heavy rainfall, typically in late fall or early spring. The region's rainforest environment ensures a good flow for much of the year, but these seasons offer the most dramatic views.
Can I bring my dog on the waterfall trails?
Many trails in the Upper Puntledge River Woodlands are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific signage at trailheads for any restrictions. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.
Are there any circular routes that include waterfalls?
Yes, the Nymph Falls loop from Puntledge Forest Protected Area is a fantastic moderate circular route. This longer trail allows you to experience the beauty of Nymph Falls and the surrounding forest, offering diverse scenery as you complete the loop.
What kind of terrain should I expect on these waterfall hikes?
You can expect varied terrain, typical of a rainforest environment. Trails often follow riverbanks, winding through extensive forest cover with towering conifers and moss-draped ancient trees. Some paths feature boardwalks and log bridges, especially in wetter areas, providing a unique and immersive experience. The routes generally have gentle elevation changes, but some sections can be uneven.
Is there parking available near the trailheads for waterfall hikes?
Yes, the Comox Lake Dam Picnic Area serves as a convenient central hub with ample parking, making it an excellent starting point for many trails in the region, including those leading to waterfalls. Specific parking information for individual trailheads can often be found on komoot route pages.
What other natural features or attractions can I see near the waterfall trails?
Beyond the waterfalls, the region boasts stunning natural beauty. You'll find scenic views along the Puntledge River, opportunities to observe wildlife, and the unique ecosystem of the Puntledge Bog, accessible via boardwalks. Comox Lake is also nearby, offering additional recreational activities.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Upper Puntledge River Woodlands?
The Upper Puntledge River Woodlands is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the immersive rainforest atmosphere, the beauty of Nymph Falls, the well-maintained trails, and the peaceful escape into nature.
Are there opportunities to combine multiple waterfalls into a single hike?
While this guide focuses on individual waterfall trails, the extensive network of paths in the Upper Puntledge River Woodlands allows for custom route planning. You could potentially link sections of different trails to create a longer adventure that passes by multiple scenic spots, including various cascades and the main Nymph Falls.
What should I wear for a waterfall hike in this region?
Given the rainforest environment, waterproof or water-resistant layers are highly recommended, especially for your outer shell. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip are essential for potentially wet or muddy sections. Dressing in layers will allow you to adapt to changing temperatures and activity levels.
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