Fancy a spelunking trip this spring? Little Huson Caves Park is the place to be, with spectacular natural cave formations like ancient limestone arches, land bridges, and a large “cathedral” cave entrance. Perfect for the beginner caver, this is a spot to bookmark for later!
There are over a thousand known caves on Vancouver Island, and potentially just as many waiting to be discovered, according to the Regional District of Mount Waddington, which has been tasked with maintaining the park.
The site is good for the inexperienced caver,” confirms the district. “No special equipment is necessary.”
Underground creek
Located in the Nimpkish Valley, just 20 minutes off of the Island Highway, the park sits on the Atluck Creek Canyon, which has a number of “karst” features unique to Vancouver Island.
This includes ancient Quatsino Formation limestone, which occurs at a depth of 300 metres at the park.
The area consists of 15 caves connected by joint-controlled passages and a flowing underground creek, which travels 60-some metres, according to the park’s website.
Natural rock pools
A short trail through the surrounding forest from the parking lot brings visitors to a scenic viewing platform overlooking a “unique rock bridge” and deep pools filled with clear, green water from Little Huson Lake.
“Sponsored and developed by the Regional District of Mount Waddington. Little Huson Cave Park offers just a small taste of the many caves and limestone features that form part of the Quatsino formation that runs through much of Northern Vancouver Island.”
Visitors can also find a handful of lake caves, including River Cave, Shelter Cave, and Bridge Cave, the latter leading to a collapsed rock bridge.
Ready to check it out for yourself? Hop on a ferry to Nanaimo and prepare to hit the road for a mini road trip to Little Huson Caves Regional Park.
Note that the caves are open year-round.
How to get there: Take a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo and drive three hours to Little Huson Caves Park via BC-19 N.
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