Ammonite Falls and Benson Creek Falls are one and the same, and are located in Nanaimo's Benson Creek Regional Park. No matter what you call this waterfall, it's a spectacular place to visit.
For my family, Ammonite Falls is a waterfall we visit regularly. Not only is it a great hike, but the rewards are plenty.
In this guide, I’ll show you what to expect on the trail, share a few tips, and explain why Ammonite Falls is worth adding to your Vancouver Island adventure list.
Quick Trail Facts
- Trail Features: Waterfall; Second-growth forest with large trees; Marked trail making it easy to follow
- Length: It depends on where you start, but it takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.
- Hazards: The trail can get muddy. This is a working forest, which means active logging takes place.
- Difficulty: Moderate: suitable for hikers with a reasonable fitness level.
- Suitability: Everyone, thanks to the new viewing platform. However, the trail has stairs and at times is steep, so it is not wheelchair or stroller-friendly.
- Bike Trails: Mount Benson Regional Park offers plenty of mountain bike trails
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Why is it called Ammonite Falls?
Ammonite Falls is Nanaimo's most significant waterfall, which is why it's so popular. The name comes from the many fossils found in the area over the years, the largest of which was found in 2012. Fossils also inhabit the layers of sedimentary rock found around the waterfall itself.
People have found small fossils lying in the creek bed as well. If you do happen to find one, please leave it in place.
Trail Upgrades
Over the last few years, the RDN has significantly improved the trail. What was once a confusing walk is now a carefully marked trail with tons of signage. If you follow the signs, you can't possibly get lost.
More recently, a large footbridge replaced the log bridge crossing Benson Creek. This portion of the trail leads from Weigles Road.
A viewing platform and staircase have been built to replace the rope system that used to lead down to the waterfall. Thanks to this platform, the waterfall is accessible to more people.
Ammonite Falls Directions
There are two access points to get to Ammonite Falls. The more popular and easier trail is via Weigles Road; the other is located off Creekside Place. The trail from Creekside Place is slightly more difficult regarding elevation gain.
- The Weigles Road access point provides a 3.2km out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of approximately 153m. The trail should take you approximately 1.5 hours to complete.
- The Creekside Place access point provides a 4.8km out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of approximately 200m. This trail should take approximately 2 hours to complete.
Both ends of the trail have plenty of signs to guide you.
The trails you walk along traverse a working forest primarily used by VIU Forestry students. This is often why you see small clear-cuts or tagged trees in the area. Private landowners also surround Benson Creek Regional Park, so please stay on the designated trails.
Once you reach the waterfall, use the new viewing platform and staircase to view the beautiful waterfall. The waterfall cascades off a cliff with many visible layers of rock sediment and tumbles into a small pool below.
If you want a longer hike, I suggest this great loop trail.
Best Time of Year to Visit
This park is accessible year-round. However, as with every waterfall, it is most significant during winter and spring, when water flow is the highest. Benson Creek runs year-round but can get down to a trickle during dry summers, which unfortunately seems to be a yearly trend.
This trail is in a working forest and is beloved by many. Therefore, you won't likely see much wildlife besides birds and squirrels. However, as you can see, they are photo-worthy, too. 😉
Ammonite Falls Parking
Ammonite Falls can be found in central Nanaimo and accessed from two locations.
Via Jameson
- From either side of Nanaimo, take Jingle Pot Road off of Hwy 19 (Nanaimo Parkway)
- Follow for several km and turn onto Kilpatrick Road
- Turn right onto Jameson Road
- Turn right onto Creekside Place, and you'll see a large parking area. Do NOT park anywhere other than this parking area, as you will get towed.
- Once parked, walk back up the hill to Jameson and turn right to follow the trail past the gate.
- Continue to follow the Ammonite Falls trail signs.
Via Weigles
- Take the North Jingle Pot exit off of Hwy 19 (Nanaimo Parkway)
- Turn right onto Biggs Road
- Biggs Road becomes Weigles Road
- Park in the designated parking area for Benson Creek Falls
- Continue to follow the trail signs to Ammonite/Benson Creek Falls
Why Ammonite Falls is Worth the Visit
Whether you're a local looking for a scenic afternoon hike or a visitor wanting to explore Nanaimo’s natural side, Ammonite Falls is a destination that won’t disappoint. With forested trails and a beautiful waterfall, it offers that perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
So lace up your hiking boots, pack a snack, and experience one of Vancouver Island’s most beloved waterfall trails.
Just be warned—you might find yourself returning repeatedly, just like we do.
Hidden Gems Found Near Ammonite Falls
If you are venturing to this area, I highly recommend you check out these incredible hidden gems within Benson Creek Regional Park. We share information on how to access a series of secret waterfalls and another not-to-miss gem.
Please note that a paid subscription is required to read the article; however, it's reasonably priced at less than a cup of coffee per month.
Other Great Nanaimo Trails
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