• Martha SleutelVancouver Island, CanadaMartha Sleutel
    Qualicum River flowing through gorge
    CascadesSmall waterfallLarge waterfallUpper and lower falls2Closer view of both fallsView of flat, quieter section of river1Moss on tree trunks along riverNature's artworkBigleaf maple covered in moss. Clear water reveals colorful rocks on river bottomRainforest at MacMillan Provincial ParkOld-growth douglas fir forest1More old-growth forestRainforest view along creek2Me surrounded by mossy treesHard to see the edge of Cameron Lake through the trees2Charlie next to a fallen giant1We've seen clusters of these bright flowers along roads. We think maybe a type of sweet pea?

    Waterfalls, Cascades, and Rainforests

    July 3 in Canada ⋅ ⛅ 70 °F

    Today we drove toward Port Alberni, where we are staying tonight. Charlie had two stops planned for hikes. The first was at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. This forested trail follows a river as it traverses a steep gorge and down a series of cascades and waterfalls. As we walked upstream, beyond the cliffs, we were next to the river where it was wider and tranquil.

    Our 2nd stop was MacMillan Provincial Park with its old-growth forest of giant Douglas fir (some are 800+ years old) and groves of ancient western red cedar. There were two trail areas, one mostly boardwalk and alongside Lake Cameron and the other was an easy stroll through the peaceful rainforest of giants.

    After we checked into our hotel, we explored the area, which is alongside a river (again!). We saw a bald eagle soaring high above, while a deer walked across the street to graze!    Read more