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Hidden Waterfalls Near Victoria

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Vancouver Island Waterfall Photography: What to Expect

We live in a rainforest, which means, it rains all the time!   What can seem like a sunny day can quickly become a sideways downpour so locals know to be prepared for anything.  Always pack your water resistant or water proof clothing, camera bag cover and rain cover.  Even a small towel can be helpful if it’s a real deluge.   

Here is a list of the other things I recommend you to bring so you can create the best quality images. 

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Sombrio Hidden Waterfalls Near Victoria

After leaving Mystic Beach, you turn left onto the Highway and carry on for what seems like 30 mins. The entrance to Sombrio Beach Parking area is clearly marked on the left. The road is gravel but you can navigate it with a 2WD. It’s free to park and visit for the day, overnight camping requires a 10$ fee payable at the trailhead.

You then walk down the path to the beach located next to the washrooms and turn left. You walk along the beautiful beach (best at low tide) for 4 kms roundtrip, admiring the surf and the vastness of the pacific. On a clear day you can see the Olympic Mountains across the water!

Running all year long, this waterfall can be reached another way for those who want to adventure and bushwack instead of walk along the beach. Just before arriving at the entrance to Sombrio, there is an old yellow gate, shrouded in greenery. It’s an old road, locked up and left to return to nature.

Park your car there, and walk in, following the road until you reach the end. Take a right into the bush and you’ll find a small trail that leads you down and towards the water. This trail is unmarked, muddy, and grown over; sturdy footwear is a must.

After about 20-30 mins you will come out of the bush and arrive almost right at the base of the waterfall! It’s a neat way to get to the waterfall while cutting out the 4kms roundtrip hike via the beach. Please note this hike is difficult, if in doubt, take the most travelled route.

Photographing Sombrio Waterfall (s) Tips

• Shoot vertically to emphasize the height and narrowness of the canyon. 
• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the lush greenery framing the falls. 
• Visit mid-day when sunlight streams into the canyon, creating a mystical glow. 
• Early morning is the best light for the 2nd waterfall
• Try a zoom lens on the 2nd waterfall to capture details that may be lost in the scene with an ultra wide angle

The Two Waterfalls of Tod Inlet

Tod Inlet, located near Butchart Gardens, features two smaller but enchanting waterfalls that trickle through the dense forest, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike. Check out my waterfall gallery for more waterfall inspiration.

Hiking Conditions

• Trail Length & Difficulty: A relatively easy hike, approximately 4 km round trip.
• Terrain: Flat and well-trodden, making it accessible for most skill levels. The trail down to each waterfall is more difficult and will be muddy.
• Best Season to Visit: Spring offers the best water flow while fall offers the most vibrant foliage while sacrificing water flow levels.

Photography Tips

• Arrive early in the morning or on overcast days for soft, even lighting.
• Utilize leading lines by incorporating the flowing stream into your foreground.
• Try long exposures (using ND filters) to enhance the dreamy flow of water.

Goldstream Falls

Goldstream Falls is a hidden gem within Goldstream Provincial Park, offering a tranquil spot away from the more frequented Niagara Falls.

Hiking Conditions

• Trail Length & Difficulty: A short but steep hike; be prepared for some elevation change.
• Terrain: Dirt paths and wooden steps; can be muddy after rain.
• Best Season to Visit: Fall through spring for optimal water flow.

Photography Tips

• Use a telephoto lens to zoom in on textures of the falling water and surrounding moss.
• Capture the contrast of light and shadow through the trees to add depth.
• Include a human subject for scale to emphasize the waterfall’s height.

Cascade Falls at MacKenzie Bight

Cascade Falls at MacKenzie Bight is a seasonal waterfall that flows most impressively after heavy rains. It’s part of Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, known for its breathtaking coastal and forest scenery.

Hiking Conditions

• Trail Length & Difficulty: About 6 km round trip, moderate difficulty.
• Terrain: Rocky sections and elevation gain; proper footwear is recommended.
• Best Season to Visit: Winter and spring when water levels are high.

Photography Tips

• A wide angle is definitely necessary here: you will be taking your images from on the trail because you’re right on the edge of a cliff when you see the waterfall.
• Take advantage of natural framing using trees and rock formations.
• Shoot at different focal lengths to capture both wide landscapes and detailed shots of water cascading over rocks.

Seasonal Waterfalls Near MacKenzie Bight Trail

Besides Cascade Falls, the MacKenzie Bight area has smaller seasonal baby waterfalls that appear after significant rainfall. These gems add an element of whimsy to your hike.

Hiking Conditions

• Trail Length & Difficulty: Varies depending on where you explore.
• Terrain: Can be rugged and slippery.
• Best Season to Visit: Late fall and winter.

Photography Tips

• Keep an eye out for this stream right next to the trail.
• Use wide-angle lenses to showcase the surrounding landscape.
• Adjust white balance settings to enhance cool tones in the water and rocks.

Hidden Waterfall Near MacKenzie Bight

A little off the main trail, there’s a hidden waterfall that only reveals itself to those who venture slightly off the beaten path. You will be able to hear this falls, hidden down an embankment on the left and around a large hill, 3/4 of the way down the trail to the beach.

Hiking Conditions

• Trail Length & Difficulty: Off-trail exploration required; moderate difficulty, will need hiking sticks and some tall sturdy boots.
• Terrain: Steep, muddy and slippery.
• Best Season to Visit: Winter and early spring.

Photography Tips

• Use macro photography to capture intricate details like moss patterns and falling droplets.
• Bracket exposures to handle challenging lighting conditions.
• Water levels are not super strong here unless directly after rainfall, so be prepared to use longer exposures to enhance the water flow.

Niagara Falls (Golden Niagara Falls) in Goldstream Park

One of the most famous waterfalls near Victoria, BC, this impressive 47.5-meter cascade is a must-see for visitors. Located within Goldstream Park, it’s easily accessible and offers breathtaking views year-round.

Hiking Conditions

• Trail Length & Difficulty: A short, easy walk from the parking lot.
• Terrain: Flat and well-maintained but can be busy with visitors.
• Best Season to Visit: Fall and winter when the waterfall is at full flow.

Photography Tips

• Visit during early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
• Use a neutral density (ND) filter to extend exposure times for smooth water effects.
• Incorporate foreground elements like fallen logs or leaves for depth.

Best Time of Year to View Hidden Waterfalls

The best time to view hidden waterfalls near Victoria BC is Mar, April, Oct and Nov.  If we have a wetter than normal spring and summer, waterfall viewing *could* be done through May, June and September, but don’t get your hopes up.  All you might find is a small trickle where there was once a raging fall or even worse, not a drop of water! 

Final Thoughts: Hidden Waterfalls Near Victoria

Victoria, BC, and its surrounding areas are home to a diverse array of waterfalls, each offering a unique hiking experience and photographic opportunities.

Whether you’re capturing the powerful drop of Niagara Falls in Goldstream Park or the delicate cascades of Tod Inlet, these locations provide endless inspiration for photographers of all levels.

By considering hiking conditions, using the right camera settings, and experimenting with different compositions, you can create stunning images that capture the beauty and spirit of Vancouver Island’s waterfalls.

So grab your camera, lace up your boots, and start exploring these incredible natural wonders!