Little Qualicum River and Falls
Markus taking a break from the hike at Little Qualicum River and Falls
About Little Qualicum River and Falls
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Length: 1.3km
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Traffic: Moderate
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Route Type: Loop
If you find yourself at Little Qualicum Falls Park, get ready to embark on a trail that offers both beautiful sights and a few challenges. As you begin your journey, you’ll be greeted by the magnificent falls, which are conveniently located near the trailhead. Take a moment to admire the cascading waters from the bridge that spans over the falls, providing a fantastic view.
Markus traversing the narrow pathways at Little Qualicum River and Falls
Once you cross the bridge, you’ll find yourself on a trail that may present some difficulties, especially for those who aren’t as sure-footed. It’s worth mentioning that the path can be narrow with exposed tree roots, making it less than ideal for leisurely strolls, especially if you require more stable ground. However, if you’re up for a bit of a challenge, the trail does lead to a set of stairs and another bridge, offering a different vantage point to view the falls.
This particular path is a short 1.3km loop that takes less than half an hour to do. While we were there (over the weekend), there were quite a few people. Aside from the exposed roots and the stairs, the trail itself is not difficult nor is it long. Just take it slowly and it makes for a good afternoon stroll with views of the waterfall. There are picnic tables at the trailhead, so it is an activity that people enjoy doing over the weekend. For this reason, the park can be busy, which may not be suitable for your reactive dog.
Markus enjoying the falls from the second angle at Little Qualicum River and Falls
Our Recommendation for Reactive Dogs
It’s important to note that due to the narrowness of the trail and because the trail can be quite busy with other dogs, we hesitate to fully recommend it, particularly for those with reactive dogs. If you’re eager to see the falls or have limited time, you can quickly park your car and check them out because it’s within immediate walking distance. Just be aware that the park tends to get quite busy, so it may not be the most calming experience, especially for a reactive dog.
Markus watching the rushing waters at Little Qualicum River and Falls
Ultimately, if you happen to visit during a quieter time or find yourself in need of a quick outing, the Trails of Little Qualicum Falls Park can serve as a viable option. Just be prepared for the narrow path, exposed tree roots, and the potential for encountering other dogs along the way.
What we liked about the trail
- We love chasing waterfalls and this is a powerful one. We liked that the waterfall was at the beginning of the trail and can be viewed from a bridge.
What we didn’t like about the trail
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The trails were narrows, which isn’t great for reactive dogs.
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The park was busy although we went over the weekend.
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The exposed roots don’t make it easy to walk, but go slowly and you should be okay.
Disclaimer
Markus is a reactive, but not aggressive dog. His instinct is to avoid other dogs and he may growl, bark or lunge if provoked, but will not attack. We normally do not have issues with leashed dogs when both sides are controlled, but we will be on guard when an oncoming dog is not leashed. There are varying levels to a dog’s reactivity and only you can decide if this park, trail or hotel is appropriate for your dog. Our visits generally will not include off-leash areas; most experiences shared on The Markus Project are within leashed or undefined areas.
Please remember that our past experience visiting a park, trail or hotel may not be the same as your experience at the same park, trail or hotel. We have no control of who visits the park and whether they adhere to park rules - like leashing their dogs on leash-required paths - or not. Please use your discretion with the information provided and with your personal knowledge of your dog’s reactivity when visiting these parks, trails or hotels.