Tucked just outside the Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park boundary, Central Walbran is a breathtaking but lesser-known area filled with towering old-growth trees, cascading waterfalls, and serene riverbanks. While the area isn't officially protected from logging, dedicated volunteers have worked hard to maintain boardwalks and trails, making it an incredible place to explore and photograph.

The best photography spots are near Castle Grove and Castle Giant Trail, a 6km return route that passes through some of the most impressive sections of the forest. If you're up for a more extended adventure, a well-maintained 8km trail leads to Anderson Lake in the heart of Carmanah Provincial Park.

Access to Central Walbran is entirely via logging roads. If you want to combine this trip with stops at Cheewhat Giant or Carmanah Main, be prepared for significant driving, as there are no direct routes between them.

Driving Directions to Central Walbran

1. Drive straight through Lake Cowichan, passing Mesachie Lake and Honeymoon Bay.

2. At 12.5 km, stay on South Shore Road.

3. At 13.8 km, at a stop sign, turn right toward Caycuse Campground.

4. At 31.4 km, ignore the Carmanah/Walbran Park sign—go straight onto the Caycuse Main Line.

5. At 39.8 km, stay left on a short one-way section.

6. At 41.9 km, stay straight and avoid spur roads.

7. At 42.2 km, turn left at the fork onto McClure Main (not Caycuse/Walbran Main).

8. At 50.4 km, continue ahead—do not turn right to cross the bridge.

9. At 55.2 km, pass McClure Lake on your left.

10. At 58.7 km, reach the "Ballpark" interchange—continue straight onto Walbran Main.

11. At 62.4 km, proceed ahead—do not take the left-uphill route (Bugaboo Road, now closed).

12. At 70.9 km, stay right and continue ahead.

13. At 74.2 km, turn right onto a more minor, rougher road leading into the Walbran Valley.

14. At 76.1 km, arrive at the bridge over Walbran Creek—you're there!

Tip: Roads can be rough and remote, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. If you're looking for an immersive Vancouver Island wilderness experience with world-class photography opportunities, Central Walbran is well worth the effort!