Nymph Falls Nature Park in Comox Valley: Trails and Tips

Discover a treasure nestled in the middle of Vancouver Island. Nymph Falls Nature Park is a 61-hectare oasis in the Comox Valley, not far from Courtenay, BC. It’s perfect for those who love nature. The park features the beautiful Puntledge River, with its waterfalls and lush forest.

This special place is home to not just one, but two amazing waterfalls – Nymph Falls and Nib Falls! You can explore both in about 45 minutes, walking just 1–5 kilometres of easy trails. Whether you’re looking for a quick nature break or a full day of outdoor fun, Nymph Falls has something for everyone.

Walking through the park, you’ll find trails for everyone. They’re wheelchair-friendly, making sure everyone can enjoy the park. Whether you want a calm walk to the falls or a challenging mountain bike ride, Nymph Falls has it all.

Key Takeaways

Nymph Falls Nature Park, located in the Comox Valley, spans 61 hectares.
The park features stunning rapids and waterfalls on the Puntledge River.
Trails cater to all abilities, including wheelchair-accessible paths.
The park offers swimming and picnicking spots, as well as picnic tables.
The park showcases Vancouver Island’s natural beauty and wildlife.
October and November are perfect for watching salmon leap up the fish ladders.
Listen for the warning siren – it means water levels are rising quickly!
Barber’s Hole is a hidden gem for swimming just upstream from the main falls.

Introduction to Nymph Falls Nature Park

Nestled in the heart of Comox Valley, Nymph Falls Nature Park is a hidden gem on Vancouver Island. It spans 61 hectares of lush second-growth forest along the scenic Puntledge River.

Location and Overview

Nymph Falls is just a short drive from Courtenay. It’s simple to get to for both locals and tourists. The park’s centrepiece is a series of cascading waterfalls, or what I call fish ladders.

Nature’s Beauty and Attractions

The park shows off the best of Vancouver Island’s wilderness. Visitors can explore winding trails through the second-growth forest. They can marvel at the rushing waters of the Puntledge River and spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

Scenic hiking trails,
Swimming holes,
For nature lovers, wildlife viewing is available.
Photography hotspots,
Mountain biking trails.

Flora and Fauna

The forest around Nymph Falls is home to Douglas fir, western hemlock, and red cedar trees. Look for unique plants like gnome plant and Indian pipe along the trail edges in summer.

Keep your eyes open for wildlife! You might spot

Osprey and bald eagles soaring overhead
American dippers bobbing near the water
Belted kingfishers watching for fish
Chestnut-backed chickadees in the trees

The Puntledge River itself hosts several salmon species during spawning season. The best time to see them is October and November when they leap up the fish ladders.

Park History and Significance

Nymph Falls Nature Park is historic and ecologically significant for the Comox Valley. The Puntledge River has shaped the area’s ecosystem. The region has also benefited from its use of hydroelectric power.

The park has an interesting history. The picnic area near the river was once a labor camp for conscientious objectors during World War II.

In 1977, workers blasted fish ladders into the rock to help salmon swim upstream. These fish ladders are now part of what makes Nib Falls so special.

Features	Description
Park size	61 hectores
Main attractions	Cascading waterfalls
Forest type	Second-growth
River	Puntledge River
Nearby Cities	Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland,

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature walk, an invigorating swim, or excellent photo opportunities, Nymph Falls has it all.

Getting to Nymph Falls Nature Park

The trail is located on Forbidden Plateau Road, which is a 16-kilometre (10-mile) drive from Courtenay, BC. The entrance to the trail is adjacent to 4478 Plateau Road – about 16 km (10 miles) from Courtenay. The trail can be accessed by turning left onto Plateau Rd from Peircy RD off of Highway 19.

Driving Directions from Major Vancouver Island Cities

The park is at 4481 Forbidden Plateau Road, Comox-Strathcona C V9J1R2, BC. Here are the driving times from key cities:

City	Driving Time	Distance (km)
Victoria	3 hours	265
Nanaimo	1 hour 20 minutes	115
Campbell River	30 minutes	35
Courtenay	15 Minutes	12

Parking and amenities

A small parking lot near the park entrance can fit about three dozen vehicles. If it’s full, you can park along the south side of Forbidden Plateau Road, which provides access to various trails in Nymph Falls . The park has basic facilities, including portable toilet outhouses, picnic tables, benches near the parking lot.

There are no stores to purchase food or water, so bring your own. Don’t forget to pack out what you bring, as there are very few garbage bins available.

Experience Nymph Falls Year-Round

Nymph Falls Nature Park is open all year, offering unique experiences each season:

Spring brings colorful wildflowers and vibrant greenery. The water flow is strong from melting snow.
Summer is perfect for swimming in the refreshing waters. The exposed rock ledges create natural pools for cooling off.
Fall showcases the spectacular salmon run. Watch these amazing fish leap up the falls in October and November.
Winter sometimes offers serene snow-covered landscapes. The trails are quieter, perfect for peaceful walks.

Plan your visit based on what you’d like to see most!

Hiking Trails and Outdoor Activities

Nymph Falls Nature Park has trails for everyone. From straightforward walks to challenging hikes and mountain biking, there’s something for all. The trails are perfect for casual strolls or intense adventures along the river.

The main trail is 0.5 km, and multi-use trails are available for various activities. allowing everyone to enjoy the park’s beauty.

Mountain bikers will love the park’s bike-only trails. They have features for all skill levels, from beginners to pros.

The hiking trails range in difficulty from simple to moderate.
There are mountain biking paths for various skill levels.
Horseback riding routes.
Swimming spots along the Puntledge River.
Wildlife viewing opportunities.

Trail Type	Distance	Difficulty	Suitable For
Main trail	0.5 Klm	Easy	All visitors are wheelchair-accessible.
River Loop	2 Klm	Moderate	Hikers, trail runners
Mountain Bike Trail	5 Klm	Challenging	Experienced cyclists can enjoy the multi-use trails in Nymph Falls Park.
Equestrian Path	3 Klm	Easy-moderate	Horse back riders

While you enjoy it, remember to respect the park and others.

The Majestic Nymph Falls

Nymph Falls is the park’s highlight, wowing everyone with its beauty as they make their way up the falls. The waterfalls drop over natural stone, creating a beautiful scene by the Puntledge River. As you wander through Nymph Falls Park, you’ll see how the falls change with the seasons.

Seasonal Changes in Water Flow

The falls show off nature’s mood swings. In autumn and spring, the water comes down hard over the rocks. Summer brings a calmer flow, ideal for a quiet picnic on the river. Each season brings a new experience to Nymph Falls.

Salmon Run Spectacle

Every year, Nymph Falls is alive with the salmon run. From October to November, salmon jump up the fish ladder against the current. This natural event is a big draw for visitors.

Photography Opportunities

Nymph Falls is a paradise for photographers. You’ll find amazing views of the river and forests to capture. The waterfalls, wildlife, and seasonal changes inspire both new and seasoned photographers. I particularly enjoy the area for night photography, as it allows me to capture the Milky Way over the falls. Just remember to stay safe and watch for warning sirens about the water flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of outdoor activities are at Nymph Falls Nature Park?

Nymph Falls Nature Park has lots to offer. You can hike, mountain bike, ride horses, swim, and watch wildlife along the river. There are trails for everyone, from simple to challenging.

Is the park wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the main trail from the parking lot to the falls is wheelchair-friendly. It’s about 0.5 km long.

Are there any facilities or amenities available at the park?

Near the parking area, there is a small parking lot and outhouses. But there are no places to eat, drink, or throw away trash. So, remember to pack what you need for a picnic at the picnic table.

Can I bring my dog to the park?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the walking trails. Just make sure they stay on a leash.

What should I be aware of when visiting the falls?

Be careful near the water. Listen for warning sirens about changes in the water flow. The water can move fast and get deep without warning.

Is there a fee to enter the park?

No, visiting Nymph Falls Nature Park is free.