West Coast · Nootka
Weymer Creek Park
About this Park
Weymer Creek Park is known for its extensive cave system and unique karst features. A distinctive topography in which the landscape is largely shaped by the dissolving action of water on carbonate bedrock, usually limestone, dolomite or marble. They are of provincial and national significance.
Some of the longest and deepest caves in Canada can be found in this park, located southeast of Tahsis on northwestern Vancouver Island. These caves provide critical habitat for bat species, including the red-listed Keens long-eared myotis. The caves in the park are also significant for their paleontological values. Along with the significant cave and karst features, this park contains old-growth and second-growth forest.
Although there may be potential for caving opportunities in the future, this area is sensitive and use is not recommended until a management plan is complete.
Safety information
- Cave systems in Weymer Creek Park are considered to be of moderate to high risk for cavers. Exploration in caves is not recommended for people unfamiliar with this area.
- White-Nose Syndrome is a fungal disease that has been linked to the mass die-off of hibernating bats in Eastern North America. It poses a significant threat to bats of the west and British Columbia. There is evidence that humans have accelerated the spread through entering caves with contaminated clothing, gear or equipment. To help prevent WNS from taking hold in B.C., the Province is making investments in bat conservation projects. To ensure the protection of bats and their habitat in this park, BC Parks strongly advises that personal caving gear that has been used anywhere east of the Rockies not be used in B.C. Also, before entering caves in B.C, cavers and visitors should consult the provincial WNS website, which includes a link to a Decontamination Protocol for Mines and Caves. Learn more about white-nose syndrome
Special notes
- Karst topography is easily damaged. Please use caution in this sensitive area. Do not damage or remove any rock formations or features from the caves.
Location notes
Weymer Creek Park is located 5 km southeast of the village of Tahsis on northwestern Vancouver Island. Access to the park is via a series of old and active logging roads off the road to Tahsis. Visitors should use caution when traveling these roads; logging vehicles have the right of way. Nearby communities include Tahsis, Gold River and Nootka Sound.
Activities
- 9752:Hiking There are no developed trails at this park however several user-created routes into the park exist. These are accessible from old and active logging roads. Hikers are reminded that these trails are not maintained and often difficult to follow. Routes lead throughout the park and are often steep and slippery over rough terrain.
- 9752:Pets on leash Pets and domestic animals must be under control all times. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement. Dogs are not permitted in caves.
- 9752:Caving Weymer Creek Park is known for its extensive cave system. Most caves are suitable for experienced cavers only. Although there may be potential for caving opportunities in the future, this area is sensitive and use is not recommended until a management plan is complete.White-Nose SyndromeWhite-Nose Syndrome (WNS) is a fungal disease linked to the mass die-off of hibernating bats in Eastern North America. Humans have accelerated spread by bringing contaminated clothing, gear, and equipment into caves. To learn more about White-Nose Syndrome, read the White-Nose Syndrome fact sheet [PDF], or visit the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative website. Before you enter a cave, use the gear decontamination instructions.
Facilities
- 9752:Campfires While fires are allowed, we encourage visitors to conserve the environment by minimizing the use of fire and using stoves instead. If you must use a campfire, please practice “ Leave No Trace” camping ethics.
Location
49.88275, -126.61557 · Nootka