Hiking Lower Myra Falls On Vancouver Island

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, might I suggest Lower Myra Falls on Vancouver island, British Columbia. This waterfall in the heart of Strathcona Park. has stunning views that’s sure to take your breath away.
Lower Myra Falls is the shorter of the two falls, while Upper Myra Falls is taller and a longer hike. The lower falls is easier to access and to me is more photogenic.
The falls have created a natural amphitheater with wide open cliff and an impressive view from the top of falls and lake below.

Key Takeaways

Unforgettable Natural Beauty: Lower Myra Falls offers stunning views..
Scenic Hike: The 1.6-kilometre loop hike to the falls is easy and rewarding.
Ideal Visiting Conditions: Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best light. Overcast days enhance the vibrant colors of the wet rocks and surrounding foliage.
Historical Significance: Named after Myra Ellison, the daughter of Price Ellison, who was instrumental in the creation of Strathcona Provincial Park.
Accessibility and Facilities: The trailhead offers parking and bathroom facilities, with the path to the falls being straightforward and well-marked.

History of Lower Myra Falls Vancouver Island

The falls bear Myra Ellison’s name in honour of her participation in the 1910 exploratory survey that led to the formation of Strathcona Provincial Park.

Hiking The Trails to the Falls

This 1.6-kilometre loop takes 30 minutes on average to hike. The guide describes it as a straightforward journey. Despite the 85 m elevation gain, the hill is quite steep. It will be difficult for some.

Trail to Lower Myra Falls Strathcona Park

The hike is a short one that leads to a stunning waterfall. The upper and lower viewing areas are both worth the visit.

This hike starts at the southern tip of Buttle Lake, and it takes hikers to two different areas of the falls that are distinct from each other..

Any hikers seeking an amazing waterfall view should definitely consider the Lower Myra Falls hike, rated as easy.

Getting to the Lower Bowls

Bushwhacking comes to mind when trying to get to the lower bowls. There is a path that will lead you into the underbrush. The trail starts out, leading you down the hill. However, as you trek further and further into the obis, the trail disappears. My only suggestion is to listen for the falls. They can be heard for miles. The same path will lead you down to Buttle Lake.

How to Get There: Campbell River to Myra Falls

From Campbell River, take the Gold River Highway North to Gold River.
At the bridge, continue onto Westmin RD. (head straight)
Follow Westmin Road until it curves around the southern end of Buttle Lake.
Cross the bridge at the southern tip of Buttle Lake, head up the hill, and look for a sign on your right for Lower Myra Falls BC.
You’ll find the parking lot adjacent to a tower on a dirt road.
Google or Android Auto can also guide you there.

Parking at the Falls

There are a few things you should know about parking. First of all, there is parking available for visitors at the trailhead. However, it can be quite busy on weekends, so be prepared to walk a bit further. Alternatively, if you visit during the weekdays, you’ll have no problem finding a space.

Bathrooms are another thing to keep in mind. At the parking lot, there are facilities.

Swimming at The Lower Falls

If you’re looking for a refreshing swim on a hot day, Lower Myra Falls is the perfect spot.

The water boasts a gorgeous turquoise hue, but be warned, it’s chilly! The current can be strong, so it’s best to stay close to the main pool. Lower Myra is popular with locals and tourists alike, so be prepared to share the water with others.

There are also some wonderful places to relax at the bottom of the falls. So if you’re looking to take a break from swimming, there’s no shortage of options at Myra Falls!

Wrapping Up Your Adventure

Lower Myra Falls, a jewel here on Vancouver Island, Let’s recap the highlights:

Easy access: A short 1.6-kilometre hike gets you to this stunning waterfall.
Beautiful views: From the upper lookout to the lower viewpoint of the falls, there’s beauty everywhere.
Perfect for photos: Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll find excellent shots here.
Best times to visit: early in the morning or on cloudy days for the most magical light.
Swimming spot: On hot days, take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters.

Lower Myra Falls is a special place that will make you fall in love with waterfall photography. So pack your camera, put on your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Who knows? You might just capture the shot of a lifetime! Happy shooting, and don’t forget to share your experience and photos with your friends. They’ll be amazed at what you’ve found!

Early Black Friday Save up to 35% On Photo RAW – Download your free trial today!

My Trip, My Adventure

I love adventures. My parents, especially Dad, have been dragging me to places since I was a teenager. It didn’t matter if I didn’t want to go; he wanted company. He would assure me, “Keep heading that way; you’re fine!” when I found myself lost.

I am really glad that I grew up to be an independent adult. I’m able to go places I had never been. My journal is filled with memories of photo adventures and future trips.

This photo adventure I’m sharing with you is one that I enjoy, and I often photograph when I need to brush up on my skills for shooting waterfalls.

In Strathcona Provincial Park, there is a well-known waterfall called Lower Myra Falls on Vancouver Island. The falls will take your breath away. Every time I visit, the falls leave me in awe.

On this day, grey skies greeted me wholeheartedly, as they often do in autumn on the island. The path to the falls is reminiscent of an old logging road. The woods encircle the well-worn and rocky path. Often you will hear the birds chirping as you hike down the old, worn-out road.

My dog, my beloved companion, is with me. She often hangs around the office waiting for me to prepare my camera gear for our next photo adventure. She and I are more than adventurers. On this day, we are seeking Vancouver Island’s hidden realms.

I was well-equipped for this photo trip. I used my camera, lens, and tripod to record videos of the adventure. The weather was drizzling as it does here on the island, but in a pleasant way. As you strolled down the hill, you could smell fresh water from the falls, wet grass, and Douglas fir.

As I got closer, I could hear the waterfalls swooshing. My heart raced as I braced myself for the view that I was about to have. My first stop was at the upper lookout point. Lo-and-behold! The waterfall danced like a ballerina. She elegantly cascaded over the rocks, making me want to take my camera.

The view is so picturesque. As the water fell from above, the light glistened on the rocks. I took my time to enjoy the view and take several pictures before heading down to the lower falls. It’s a short, winding walk, with a few switchbacks rambling through the trees to the lower portion of the falls.

At the falls, it’s challenging to become lost. The trail is simple to follow. I had no problem getting to my destination. Interestingly, the lower portion was even more beautiful than the upper.

This hike is so worthwhile. You get to visit one of the most beautiful sights on the island.

I always whispered to myself as I left this particular waterfall, "I'll be back."

...Bob

The lighting and colour of the Falls are ideal.

In terms of photography, early morning or late afternoon are the ideal times. Lower Myra Falls is an opening in the woods. After 10 a.m., trees surrounding the area will cast long, harsh shadows. For perfect sunlight from behind. I would suggest getting there at 7. If it’s an overcast day, you just may catch the fog rolling in over the fall.

Are You Seeking the Best Light and Colour?

If you are interested in photographing vibrant colours, I have two suggestions.

Plan to visit the falls just after or during the rain. The rocks become wet, and their orange-red hue pops against the turquoise water. Remember to use a polarizer to cut down on reflection.

Most of Vancouver Island is a rainforest. Douglas Fir surrounds the falls, remaining unchanged in the fall. However, some bushes in the area turn yellowish-orange. With luck, you might capture these bushes when they still have leaves.

Camera Gear for Photographing Waterfalls

You will need a DSLR or mirrorless camera that can shoot in manual mode, a tripod, and a cable release or remote shutter. It is also helpful to have a polarizing filter and neutral density filters.

You want to make sure that the shutter speed is slow enough to capture the motion of the water without causing any blur. Set the aperture as wide open as possible to capture more light, and keep the ISO low to prevent noise in your photos.

You will want to use a cable release or remote shutter to avoid shaking the camera when you press the shutter button. This will help ensure that you get sharp photos every time.

The polarizing filter will reduce glare on the water and help bring out its colours, while the ND filter will help reduce exposure time and prevent overexposure.

Be sure to check out our full post on how to photograph waterfalls.

Composition and Angles

You want to make sure that your photograph showcases the waterfall in the best way possible. The shot’s foreground and background are crucial. The foreground should be captivating and provide a pleasing contrast against the waterfall, while the background should be either a beautiful landscape or featureless sky. It’s also important to find an angle that showcases the power and majesty of the waterfall. Shooting from below can give a sense of scale, while shooting from above can emphasize the height of the falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Myra Falls hike?

The Lower Myra Falls hike from the parking lot is approximately 1.6 Klm (1 mile) long. This loop trail typically takes about 30 minutes to complete and is considered an effortless hike, despite a steep section with an 85-meter elevation gain.

Can you swim at Lower Myra Falls?

Yes, you can swim at Lower Myra Falls. The waterfall features a gorgeous turquoise pool that’s perfect for a refreshing dip on hot days. However, be prepared for chilly water and strong currents. Stay close to the main pool for safety and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Is the road to Myra Falls paved?

The road to Lower Myra Falls is partially paved. Westmin Road, which leads to the falls, is paved. However, the final stretch to the parking lot is a short gravel road. The trail itself is a well-maintained dirt path.