Crystal Falls – Heart Lake loop from Ladysmith

Hiking trails & Routes

Canada

British Columbia

Cowichan Valley G

Crystal Falls – Heart Lake loop from Ladysmith

Moderate

4.6

(8)

hikers

Crystal Falls – Heart Lake loop from Ladysmith

03:54

12.9km

400m

Hiking

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 7, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

860 m

Crystal Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

Crystal Falls is a beautiful waterfall that flows out of Holland Creek. Winter is the best time to catch the falls at peak flow.

Tip by

1.03 km

The trail parallels Holland Creek from above, with benches at a few scenic rest areas. There are multiple waterfalls to explore along the trail, all cascading down into clear round basins along the trailside.

Tip by

1.55 km

Holland Creek

Highlight • River

This section of the trail has a bridge that runs directly over Holland Creek, offering a great spot to pause and watch the creek flow.

Tip by

2.61 km

Heart Lake Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Heart Lake Trail climbs through forested terrain along Holland Creek to the banks of Heart Lake. There are plenty of spots to take in some incredible views of the …

Tip by

3.58 km

Heart Lake

Highlight • Lake

Heart Lake is a secluded lake nestled in a surrounding forest setting. There's a large rock outcrop along the banks that makes for a great spot to rest and take in the views.

Tip by

6.06 km

Stocking Lake

Highlight • Lake

Stocking Lake was dammed in the 1960s to provide clean drinking water to Ladysmith and nearby towns. From here you can look along the length of the lake, and there are trails you can explore that circumnavigate the water's edge.

Tip by

7.94 km

Stocking Lake Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

This is an old logging road and makes for a fairly easy walk through the woods toward Stocking Lake and Banon Creek Falls. It's a pleasant walk. You can drive …

Tip by

12.4 km

Holland Creek Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

This is one of the main access points to the Holland Creek loop and has roadside parking plus a public washroom at the shelter. From here the trail drops into …

Tip by

12.9 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

6.29 km

4.37 km

1.18 km

1.01 km

Surfaces

5.78 km