Planning a car trip to Myra Falls on Vancouver Island? These packing tips will help you prepare for a relaxing, well-equipped day trip.
My husband and I have lived on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, for nearly three decades. I grew up on the prairies in Montana, so moving to an island and learning to enjoy coastal life has been an ongoing adventure. Over the years we’ve come to appreciate the island’s dramatic scenery and the simple practicalities of day trips here.
If you’re thinking of visiting Vancouver Island (highly recommended!), I’ll walk you through what we packed for our most recent trip to Myra Falls so you can be comfortable and ready for the trail, viewpoints, and a possible swim. If you enjoy stopping for coffee on the road, we often share our favorite local spots too.
Packing for Travel Tips | What to pack for a day trip by car to Myra Falls
Where are we going?
Myra Falls sits near the geographic center of Vancouver Island, along the road from Campbell River toward Gold River, within the boundaries of Strathcona Provincial Park. From Campbell River, the drive is roughly 90 minutes without stops, though there are many scenic pullouts worth visiting along the way.
What should I pack for a day trip to Myra Falls?
Many items overlap with a basic day-trip or outdoor packing list, but here are the specific things we bring for Myra Falls to stay comfortable, safe, and ready for swimming or a picnic.
Travel music
Good music makes the drive better. If your car doesn’t have Bluetooth, consider a simple transmitter or an aux cable so you can play a favorite playlist. A mix of upbeat and mellow tunes sets a relaxed mood for the road.
Food and cold water
There aren’t shops or cafes around the falls, so bring a picnic and plenty of water. A small cooler keeps sandwiches and drinks fresh, and reusable bottles help you stay hydrated on the trail. Pack a compact travel utensil set if your meal needs forks or spoons.
Weather-appropriate outerwear
Summer on Vancouver Island often reaches the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit), but conditions can change quickly. Bring sunscreen, a lightweight sweatshirt for cooler moments, and a compact rain jacket if there’s any chance of showers. A hooded raincoat with enough room for a layer underneath is ideal.
Comfortable walking shoes
The path to lower Myra Falls is wide and scenic, but it’s a moderate walk and the return is uphill. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. In summer, sturdy sandals or flip-flops with support can work, and during wetter months, waterproof boots are a smart choice.
Hand sanitizer and wipes
Restroom facilities along the route are often basic pit toilets. They’re generally well maintained, but we always carry hand sanitizer and a small zip-top bag with a damp washcloth or wet wipes for quick cleanups.
Swimsuit and towel
If the weather is warm, there are tempting swimming spots like the pool below the falls and Buttle Lake. Bring a swimsuit and a towel just in case you want to cool off. The water is clear and inviting, especially on a sunny day.
Water shoes
If you plan to swim at rocky shores or enter the water near the falls, water shoes protect your feet from sharp rocks and make wading more comfortable.
Camera or charged phone
You’ll want photos. Bring a camera or a fully charged phone, but note that cell coverage is limited in parts of Strathcona Park, so don’t count on service for navigation or work during the visit.
Small travel first-aid kit
Keep a compact first-aid kit in your day pack with items such as lip balm with SPF, bandages, basic pain relievers, motion sickness tablets if needed, tissues, a small comb, and nail clippers. A cosmetic bag or small pouch makes it easy to grab and go.
- Lip balm with sunscreen
- Bandaids
- Pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
- Motion-sickness tablets
- Tissues and a small comb
Photo Credit: Outdoor Vancouver
Enjoy Myra Falls!
Even after living nearby for many years, visiting Myra Falls felt like discovering a hidden gem. The layered rock formations and clear pools are more striking in person than in photos. On weekends the area can be busy, but the scenery and the sense of being outdoors make it worth the visit.
The trail and surrounding rocks offer plenty of spots to sit and take in the view, so bring a picnic and take your time. It’s a great destination for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys an easy-to-moderate nature walk followed by a rewarding waterfall view.
Other packing and travel tips
- How to pack a carry-on efficiently for a week away.
- Essential items to bring for a day on the water.
- Packing tips for sunny destinations and outdoor events.
Don’t miss a thing!
Follow along on Instagram for behind-the-scenes photos and stories from our trips, and consider subscribing to our newsletter for updates and more travel tips. Enjoy your time at Myra Falls, and pack smart so you can focus on the views and the fresh air.
