Bonnell Creek (Sundew Pools)

There is a gorgeous spot behind the Arlington Pub by Nanoose Bay, a 15 minute drive north of Nanaimo. The editors of Nanaimo Information haven't been there, but we've heard of it from three sources. Here is one set of directions to the falls. A member of our forum was also good enough to post directions to the spot. Here is Jen's testimony, written in two parts:

"I know of a place that not many know of. It is a series of small but gorgeous waterfalls that each flow into small swimming holes, it is very cold but very romantic or even a great place to hang with friends. Just before the Arlington Inn in Nanoose Bay take a left on the highway [onto Summerset Rd, which turns into Seablush Drive]. Go up the road and around a corner and you will see what looks like an undeveloped rd called sundew. Follow that road to the metal gate, park your car and walk for about 10 mins down the logging rd. When you see the end of the road and hear the falls there is a small trail to your right. Follow the trail and you will come to a steep embankment with a rope to help you get down. Be careful. This may seem like a lot of work but it is amazing."

"Well I took Phil to "paradise" too today so I now know exactly the roads to take. Just before Arlington Pub take a left on Somerset. Follow it until you find Sundew, this is a dirt road and you just park wherever. Walk the road for about 10 mins and just before it looks as though the road might be ending there should be a trail on your right. (January2007 edit: Somebody followed these directions and says it must have changed considerably!) There are stinging nettles, and you should pack all of your stuff in a back pack as well as make sure you wear running shoes. Follow this skinny trail around and you will see where it starts to go downhill, be careful here. The name of this beautiful place is Bennel Creek (sic) and not many people go there."

And a bit more from Phil:

"Agreed. Beautiful place, we had loads of fun. We went on a whim, so we wern't really prepared. I recommend hiking boots (or, at least, running shoes), long pants and a backpack to carry your towels/snacks/whatevs. The trail is not suitable for children -- there's a steep hill down to the falls and a rope to help you down."

Thanks to Tim for these photos!

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