Hole in the Wall

Route Description for Hole in the Wall

While the Hole in the Wall Trail is largely made up of old roads through the area that are fairly well-maintained, it is not recommended to hike this trail in the winter months due to the amount of mud and water along the trail. Additionally, parking in and around the trailhead is severely limited and will require you to park along the highway in one of the pullouts. Do not park at the nearby Coombs Country Candy Store, as you will likely get a ticket or have your vehicle towed, resulting in a not-so-sweet end to your adventure.

Parking issues aside, the trail’s location right off the highway and its short overall distance makes the Hole in the Wall a very accessible site with some amazing views that you surely will not want to miss. Along the beautifully forested trail, you will feel a wave of relaxation wash over you, as you hike under the vibrant green canopy of the trees and follow along the flowing waters of Rogers Creek. As far as highlights go, this short trail is big on scenic views set in a tranquil atmosphere. At the Hole in the Wall, you will be able to explore the small oasis-like pool that is fed by the cascading water of the falls, and a little further down the trail you can visit a bunch of small rock cairns that have been set up along the banks of the creek. For such a short route in the Port Alberni area, there sure is a lot to be seen and done.

Setting out from the parking area just off the highway, follow the trail to the south as it passes through a beautiful stretch of forest terrain and meets up with an old road after roughly 150m. Head to the right and continue along the road to the southwest, relaxing as you make your way through the shady forest toward the sound of the flowing Rogers Creek.

After 350m, you will come to a junction in the trail. Take the path to the left and continue on for 150 m through the forest until you arrive at the unique site of the Hole in the Wall. Take some time to explore the area around this lovely man-made feature and relax in the serene atmosphere created by the trickling of the waterfall into the calm pool below.

After enjoying the area, head a bit further west along the trail to arrive at a tranquil creekside spot that is decorated with charming rock cairns left by previous visitors. Explore the site and search for the perfect rocks along the creekbed to add to the odd collection of structures before heading back along the Hole in the Wall Trail to return to the roadside parking area.

Trail Highlights

Hole in the Wall

The Port Alberni Hole in the Wall is a unique man-made feature that was originally drilled out of the solid rock to provide a direct access route for a pipeline that would supply the city with water. After the pipeline fell out of use it was removed and left empty, the result of which is a peaceful waterfall that passes through the keyhole and cascades into a crystal clear pool on the other side of the rock.

Rock Cairns

At the end of the trail, hikers will find a tranquil spot along the banks of Rogers Creek where past visitors have constructed and left behind a series of rock cairns that dot the landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Port Alberni Hole in the Wall man-made?

Yes. The Port Alberni Hole in the Wall was created as a shortcut for the city’s water supply that has since fallen out of use. It is now a small waterfall within the nature park.

Insider Hints for Hole in the Wall

• Parking at the nearby Coombs Country Candy Store is not permitted, so visitors will need to utilize the limited roadside parking space.
• Make sure to arrive early for parking and to beat the crowds.
• Try exploring some of the side trails to visit a scenic waterfall.
• Although the route follows an old road, it is not suitable for travel during the winter due to mud.