Discover Alberni Episode 16: Hole in The Wall

There’s probably a pretty good chance that you’ve never heard of the Hole in The Wall. This local secret has been spreading, despite not having any flashy signs advertising it. Thousands of people have driven by the entrance without even realizing it. So what is the Hole in the Wall?

Long ago, a literal hole was drilled through a natural rock formation to make room for a water pipeline.Those days are long gone, but the hole is still there. Now, nature has taken over and reclaimed the area with a beautiful waterfall and plenty of forest life. Visitors walk the trail to this picturesque formation and witness the creek slowly bubble down into a pool of crystal clear water. 

On a hot summer day, this small swimming hole is a refreshing oasis just on the outskirts of town. Visitors love taking photos of the quaint waterfall, building rock cairns, and spending a few moments of tranquillity in the forest with the sounds of the bubbling creek. 

So, how do you get there? Just outside of town on Highway 4 you can find the trailhead. Driving out of Port Alberni towards Cathedral Grove you will find the opening of the trail across from Coombs Country Candy. This trail is not marked by any signs. There are only a couple of parking areas right on the highway, so arrive early if you can. While there is a parking lot at Coombs Country Candy, it is reserved for customers and is a fantastic stop on your way home! 

Once you are on the trail, there will be a small sign on a tree reassuring you that you are in the right place. The walk itself is about 1km long and takes around 15 minutes to get to the Hole in the Wall. Most of the terrain is flat or with gradual slopes, though there are some spots near the end that are a bit steeper than the rest. If you are walking on a rainy day, just be mindful that you don’t slip! 

With that being said, this is not a trail suited for baby strollers or wheelchairs. Those with mobility issues may have challenges with a few spots on the trail. As it is not an official attraction, there are no facilities like washrooms or guides to help you on your way. This is a local, off the beaten path kind of attraction that has increased in popularity over the years. So be sure to give it a try and discover for yourself one of Port Alberni’s hidden gems. 

A short walk away and just a little further downstream is another favorite spot of locals, Sherwood Falls. This beautiful little waterfall cascades into a large swimming pond. Perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.