This (somewhat) hidden gem is becoming an increasingly popular attraction in Port Alberni. Not far from majestic Cathedral Grove and an easy stop along a Tofino road trip, the Hole in the Wall is a quick and fun must-see spot!
Port Alberni’s Hole in the Wall
History of the Hole in the Wall
So, what exactly is this hole in the wall? No, it’s not a natural wonder. It was in fact a man-made hole created many years ago to make way for a pipeline to supply water to the town of Port Alberni. The pipeline is now long gone, leaving behind a massive hole in the rock wall where the creek now flows through, creating a lovely little waterfall.
How To Get To The Hole in the Wall in Port Alberni
From Victoria:
Travel north on Highway 1, and just before you reach Nanaimo, merge onto Highway 19, following signs to Parksville/Campbell River. After 50km, take exit 60 towards Port Alberni. You will now be on Highway 4.
After you pass through Cathedral Grove, it’s only about another 15 minutes to reach the Hole in the Wall Port Alberni. There won’t be any signs to indicate you’ve arrived at the correct destination as the Hole in the Wall is not an official attraction or park. It is on private land owned by Mosaic Forest Management. Instead, you will need to watch out for Coombs Country Candy Store to your right.
Parking for The Hole in the Wall Port Alberni
Since this is not an official park or attraction, parking is a big issue. There is no dedicated lot for the Hole in the Wall. Instead, you have to find parking on the side of the highway, and space is very limited.
The best place to park is in the small pullout section of the highway right at the trail head, opposite of the Coombs Country Candy Store. You will likely be able to tell you are at the correct place by the amount of cars parked seemingly randomly on the side of the highway.
Coming from Victoria, you will need to turn back around in order to park on the correct side of the highway. To do this, pass Coombs Country Candy Store and turn left onto Timberlane Road. You will then be able to turn around and head back up Highway 4. There is only room for about six cars to park, so it’s best to head here early to get a spot.
Alternatively, you can park in a dirt pullout section next to Coombs Country Candy Store. We saw a number of people doing this due to the highway pullout being full. The problem is you have to dash across the highway which is quite dangerous. The highway has two blind bends on either side, so you have to be very careful! So, please, please be as safe as possible if you have to park on this side of the highway and run across.
How to Find the Trail Head
As mentioned above, the trail head is located right below the highway pullout. Walk down the short slope, and you will see a small wooden sign with Hole on the Wall written on it. From here, it is only 1.3km to the Hole in the Wall.
The trail is well-marked with wooden signs. There are numerous little trails that branch off, but just stick to the widest trail and you will reach the Hole in the Wall in about 15 minutes.
Hiking to The Hole in the Wall Port Alberni
The trail to the Hole in the Wall is quite easy and is very doable for kids and dogs. However, there is one slightly steep section which might be challenging for anyone with mobility issues. The trail also isn’t suitable for strollers.
The trail is mostly shaded, and we did not encounter any muddy sections in the summer.
Visiting The Hole in the Wall
Once you reach the creek, it is easy to cross over in the summer time to get right up close to the Hole in the Wall. Either walk across in the shallow water, or balance on the exposed rocks to try to stay dry like Ryan did 🙂 If you want to climb right up into the hole in the wall, be very mindful that the rock is quite slippery. We only recommend climbing up if you have good grip on your shoes. We saw a couple people slip attempting it, so be careful!
Otherwise, you can admire it from the opposite side without needing to cross over. There are also two logs that you can carefully walk across to a perfect viewing platform for the Hole in the Wall.
If you visit during the summer months, the creek is lovely and inviting for a quick dip. The water is clear, but quite cold! However it is quite refreshing on those scorching hot Port Alberni summer days.
There are also a number of inukshuks to admire by the water.
Tip: Please be mindful when taking photos that other people are waiting for their turn as well. I know everyone wants to get their perfect Instagram shot in, but try not to be one of those people hogging the hole in the wall while trying to get their perfect shot with their tripod or drone, etc.
Click here to read our full Privacy Policy and Affiliate Disclosure Statement.
Pin The Hole in the Wall Port Alberni!
You might also like:
63 Things To Do On Vancouver Island According to a Local
[…] Read more: How To Get To The Hole in the Wall Port Alberni […]
[…] How To Get To The Hole in the Wall Port Alberni […]
[…] How To Get To The Hole in the Wall Port Alberni […]