One of our favorite places to explore. Just south of Courtenay near Royston, the Trent River is one of Vancouver Island’s most underrated gems.

Along the riverbanks and bedrock, fossils can often be spotted embedded in stone — remnants of the late Cretaceous period, when this entire region was underwater. In 2020, an Elasmosaurus fossil was discovered near the Trent River

You might glimpse fossilized clams, ammonites, or plant imprints if you look closely (but remember, collecting fossils from protected areas is not permitted — enjoy them in place!).

It’s about a fifteen-minute walk to the waterfall from the highway, and most of the walk is straightforward along a wide, flat trail. From the north end of the bridge is a short trail to the top of the river. Stay on the trail.  At the end, you’ll descend into the canyon, and the flat trail very quickly becomes very steep. Fortunately, ropes have been installed to help descend and ascend the steep and potentially slippery slope. This trail is in the All Trails App.

Good footwear is definitely a requirement for walking to Trent River Falls. The slope is a dusty sort of slippery. The steep descent is potentially an obstacle to super young kids or anyone with mobility issues, but the delightful Trent River Falls are at the end of the short hike. It’s beautiful and warm.

The lower sections near the highway bridge are easily accessible, while the upper river offers wilder, more secluded spots surrounded by towering cedars and ferns.

The Trent River played a quiet but important role in local history — once part of early logging routes and a water source for nearby homesteads. Today, it’s a peaceful place to slow down, explore, and feel the weight of time beneath your feet.

Whether you come to swim, photograph the cliffs, or trace your fingers across ancient fossils in the stone, Trent River offers a rare mix of tranquility, beauty, and deep geological wonder — a reminder of just how old and magical this island really is.

Tips:

• Best visited in summer for swimming and fossil viewing (low water levels).

• Parking is limited near the bridge — be mindful of private property.

• Bring sturdy shoes for the rocky shoreline.

• The trail down to the falls is not the best for dogs.

• Please leave fossils and rocks in place to preserve this natural heritage.