The Nootka region on Vancouver Island’s west coast is home to one of British Columbia’s most approachable cave systems. The Upana Caves near Gold River draw both first-time and experienced spelunkers and caving adventurers looking to explore Vancouver Island’s extensive karst landscape. This is a destination where you can experience underground rivers, limestone chambers, and accessible self-guided routes.

Here’s what to know before planning your caving trip in the Nootka region.

Where are the Upana Caves Located?

The Upana Caves Recreation Site is located about 14.5 kilometres west of Gold River along the Head Bay Forest Service Road. A small sign marks the turnoff onto Branch H-27, leading to a day-use parking lot with an information kiosk and short forest trail. The trail crosses a bridge before reaching several entrances to the cave network.

Gold River acts as the main hub for this area, offering accommodations, fuel, and supplies before heading out to the site. For reference, the caves are roughly a 90-minute drive west of Campbell River, depending on road conditions.

Exploring the Caves

The Upana Caves system features a network of limestone passages carved by the Upana River through limestone and marble bedrock characteristic of Vancouver Island’s karst terrain. The area contains around 15 known entrances, with five main caves developed for safe public access.

• Insect Cave – A good starting point for beginners or warm-ups. A short, open chamber with daylight visible throughout.
• Main Cave – The largest and most visited section. A series of chambers connected by walkable passages, with stone steps leading into the lower area.
• Resurgence Cave – Where the underground river re-emerges into daylight. This section gives visitors a close look at how the cave system interacts with surface water.
• Corner Cave and Tunnel Cave – Smaller phreatic-tube formations for more experienced visitors who are properly equipped.
• Waterfall Viewpoint – Just above the cave entrances, a short trail leads to an overlook where the Upana River disappears underground.

Most visitors spend about one to two hours exploring the site depending on experience level. For serious cavers, additional undeveloped passages extend deeper into the karst system, though proper lighting and caution are essential.

Gear and Preparation

Caving at Upana doesn’t require technical equipment beyond basic gear, but preparation matters.

• Bring at least two light sources (headlamp and backup).
• Wear sturdy, waterproof boots with good traction—some sections are wet year-round.
• A helmet or hard hat and gloves are recommended for low ceilings and rough surfaces.
• Dress in layers; the caves maintain a steady temperature of about 7 °C (45 °F) regardless of season.
• Carry water and tell someone your plan before entering; cell service is limited.

The Upana Caves are a self-guided and year-round experience operated by Recreation Sites and Trails BC, and no permit is required. Visitors should follow marked trails and avoid damaging any rock formations or wildlife.

Code of Conduct

While on self-guided tours, follow these basic rules to help protect the caves for future visitors:

• Keep to established trails and underground routes.
• Do not litter or mark the caves.
• Do not disturb crickets, spiders, or other forms of cave life.
• Do not touch delicate formations.
• Refrain from smoking or lighting fires.

Why the Nootka Region Appeals to Cavers

Vancouver Island contains over 1,000 documented caves, forming one of Canada’s largest karst networks, and the Nootka region showcases that geology in an accessible format. The area’s mix of limestone, marble, underground streams, and dense forest make it ideal for cavers who want a balance between wild terrain and manageable logistics.

Gold River’s proximity to the site keeps planning straightforward – accommodation, supplies, and paved-road access up to the forest service route are all nearby. For visiting cavers, it’s one of the few west-coast locations where you can plan a full cave trip without formal guides or extensive expedition time.

Planning Your Trip

• Best season: The caves are open year-round. Because temperatures remain stable underground, caving conditions don’t change much between summer and fall.
• Travel base: Stay in Gold River, where the newly-renovated Baymont by Wyndham Gold River hotel offers 49 comfortable rooms, pet-friendly options, EV charging, free parking and 24/7 reception.
• Nearby activities: Explore nearby Strathcona Provincial Park, Muchalaht Lake, and Tahsis Inlet for additional outdoor options.

Plan Your Spelunking & Caving Adventure

The Upana Caves offer one of the most accessible and rewarding caving experiences on Vancouver Island. For cavers looking for a genuine look at the region’s karst landscape without complicated logistics, this site combines easy access with real underground exploration. Come see for yourself.

PLAN YOUR TRIP