Explore the Wonders of Little Huson Caves
Little Huson Caves enthralls visitors with karst topography, adding an element of geological fascination to the outdoor experience. This regional park promises a serene escape, allowing exploration of the captivating caves and beautiful surroundings.
The northern half of Vancouver Island is rich with natural caves and limestone features. Over 1,000 caves are known, and just as many are speculatively waiting to be discovered. Little Huson Caves offers a small yet spectacular taste of the karst topography found on the island.
Little Huson Caves Quick Facts
The great thing about Little Huson Caves is that it offers caving opportunities without going underground unless you want to. This rugged regional park contains 15 known caves. However, it was developed mainly because of the limestone rock formations unique to Vancouver Island.
The park is centred around Atluck Creek Canyon, an area of breathtaking natural beauty. There are several fantastic karst features to view and explore.
Highlights of Little Huson Caves
- Natural Marvels Await: Little Huson Caves offers pristine wilderness and a unique adventure for nature enthusiasts. The park boasts stunning limestone formations and captivating rock arches, making it a must-visit for those seeking geological wonders.
- Immersive Trail Experience: Embark on a scenic 0.8 km trail through lush surroundings, which is estimated to take around 15 minutes to complete. This short trek leads to the awe-inspiring caves, ensuring a manageable yet rewarding excursion for all levels of hikers.
- Hidden Gem Off the Beaten Path: Little Huson Caves remain relatively undiscovered, providing an intimate escape into nature's beauty. The park's secluded charm adds to the allure, making it an ideal destination for those craving a serene retreat.
- Family-Friendly Exploration: The park's short trail makes it a perfect family-friendly destination. The first time my family visited this North Island gem, my kids were 10 and 7 and had no issues exploring the area.
Main Highlight
The area's main highlight is the Vanishing River Cave. Its large cathedral entrance welcomes exploration.
Inside the cave, the creek flows underground for 60 meters. It's thought that the Atluck Creek Canyon was formed by a stream which then, as now, flowed underground only briefly. What's left today is unique topography, surrounded by deep pools and filled with crystal-clear green water.
The park has several other minor karst features that might interest visitors with a discerning eye. Keep on the lookout for:
- ‘Grykes,' which are shallow cracks in the ground
- ‘Scallops' – rippled rock surfaces created by high-pressure water flow
- And, of course, many shadowy openings urge you to click on your flashlight and peer inside (or explore further if you are willing and have proper equipment).
The Trail
The trail is a short 0.8 km out and back. It should take you around 15 minutes to get to the main cave. However, the trail is relatively undeveloped and unmaintained. There are several areas with questionable old wooden steps and ladders. Just use caution when traversing these areas, and you will be fine.
Things to Note
Little Huson Caves Park was developed as a day-use recreation and interpretive area for residents and tourists. Camping and picnicking are NOT permitted on-site. Visitors wishing to camp can do so at nearby Atluck Lake and Anutz Lake.
While you are in the area, please take note:
- Visitors take a self-guided tour using interpretive signs erected at strategic sites. A map is also provided by the Regional District of Mt. Waddington.
- This area is excellent for the inexperienced caver, as no special equipment is necessary to view it. Unless, of course, you are there to explore underground.
- The trails throughout the park are relatively undeveloped, so use caution.
- A few signs warn visitors that the site has inherent dangers. So, use common sense when exploring.
- The rocks are extremely slippery when wet, so use extra caution when climbing.
- A few of the pools are quite deep, so keep children close by at all times.
- There are pit toilets at the trailhead.
- There is no cell coverage in the area.
Getting There
For some reason, Google Maps doesn't lead you the correct way. So please follow these directions when trying to find this park. Another alternative is AllTrails.
From the Island Highway (Hwy 19), take the Zeballos turn-off north of Woss onto a gravel logging road.
Keep close watch and follow the signs directing you down a series of gravel roads (for approximately 9 kilometres) to Little Huson Caves Regional Park.
The route is a little convoluted, so notice where you are going and pay close attention to the signs. It is good to note that the very first sign says, “Huston Caves” (with a “t”), but it is the correct one!
The road surface deteriorates in spots and also becomes quite narrow in certain areas. We were able to get down the road with our motorhome. However, there were a few spots where we wondered how we would pull over should we happen upon a vehicle coming in the opposite direction.
While the road doesn't require four-wheel drive, descent vehicle clearance, good tires, and lots of gas are in order. It is recommended that you drive slowly to avoid a flat tire.
Just remember, there is no cell coverage in the area, so extra precautions are necessary!
While You are in the Area
Woss Lake
Woss Lake is approximately 5 km south of the town of Woss. Popular activities at Woss Lake include fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. On the south side of the lake (only accessible by boat or walk-in access), you will find Woss Lake Provincial Park. This undeveloped wilderness area is ideal for remote hiking and camping.
Schoen Lake Provincial Park
Surrounded by towering mountains, a clear lake, and superb scenery, Schoen Lake Provincial Park is considered by some to be one of the most beautiful parks on Vancouver Island. This lake offers vehicle-accessible wilderness camping, great fishing, and an excellent chance to see wildlife (be bear and cougar-aware!).
Zeballos
Head back to the main logging road from Little Huson Caves and continue northwest to Zeballos. The 40 km gravel road to Zeballos is relatively well-maintained and should take you approximately 1.5 hours from the caves. Zeballos is famous for kayaking and salmon fishing opportunities and allows the opportunity to experience the wild west coast of Vancouver Island in a slightly more rugged way (compared to, say, Tofino or Ucluelet). Camping and comfortable accommodations are available in the village of Zeballos.
Visiting Little Huson Caves Summary
In summary, Little Huson Caves offer a quick yet enchanting journey into Vancouver Island's geological wonders, making it a delightful destination for nature lovers of all ages. This hidden wonder on Vancouver Island promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture here.
Have you been to Little Huson Caves? Let us know about your experience in the comments below!
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