Home to some of the most beautiful lush old-growth trees, Cathedral Grove is one of the most remarkable ancient wonders on Vancouver Island. And because of this wonder, how could you not choose this magical place for your elopement!! With its massive 800-year old giant residents, lush forest greenery, and nearby views of the stunning Lake Cameron, it is truly hard to beat a better place to say your vows. I’ve created a guide for how to elope at Cathedral Grove so that you have all the tools you need for having the perfect Vancouver Island elopement.
About Cathedral Grove MacMillan Provincial Park
Where is Cathedral Grove?
Cathedral Grove – MacMillan Provincial Park is located at the western end of Cameron Lake, 20 minutes from Qualicum Beach and Parksville on Highway 4, just beyond Coombs. And just minutes away from Port Alberni on the west side of the hump.
Park History
Indigenous cultures have a long history of stewarding the land in Cathedral Grove – MacMillan park. These trees provided indigenous people including the K’ómoks, Tseshaht, and Te’mexw, with raw materials to support their shelter, transportation, clothing, and tools.
When Europeans settled on Vancouver Island, the land came to be owned by logging companies. Governor General Viscount Willingdon is credited with bestowing the name “Cathedral Grove” on the park in the 1920s, and even then, it was already a popular destination for tourists. For many years, the public petitioned the government unsuccessfully to preserve and protect the land for future generations. In 1944, a forester named H.R MacMillan donated 136 hectares and this site was formally dedicated as a Class A Provincial Park three years later. (source)
What trees make up the park?
Cathedral Grove’s trail system offers views of 800-year-old giant Douglas Fir, Grand Firs, Western Hemlocks, and Western Red Cedar trees. To see the oldest and largest trees in the park, take the trails on the south side of the highway. When you walk the Big Tree Trail, keep an eye out for the widest tree in the park, a Douglas Fir with a 9-meter circumference!
Is there a fee to enter the park?
It is completely free to visit Cathedral Grove and parking is free, but space may become limited during peak visitation in the summer and on weekends.
FAQ’s about getting married at Cathedral Grove
Can you get married at Cathedral Grove Provincial Park?
YES, you can get married at Cathedral Grove Provincial Park. Continue reading for more information.
Do I need a permit to get married at Cathedral Grove?
If you’re planning to elope in a provincial park, you’ll need a Special Event Permit if you have more than 25 guests or if you plan to use amplified sound. You can apply for a Special Event Permit online or at any provincial park information centre. But because of limited space, Cathedral Grove is best suited for small, intimate weddings or elopements (ideally less than 10 people), a permit would not typically be required.
Best Cathedral Grove elopement locations
Now that you know all the official things about getting married at Cathedral Grove Provincial Park, let’s dive into the fun stuff – picking your ceremony and portrait locations!
Big Tree Trail
The largest tree in the park is a Douglas Fir that sits at an impressive 9-meter circumference, making it a majestic and beautiful backdrop to say your vows. One consideration – this is a popular spot in the park (understandably!) so if you are wanting to use this space for your ceremony I would suggest very early in the morning, not during the summer months, or to opt for mid-week to avoid the crowds.
Cameron River
The Cameron River runs adjacent to the main road on the west side of the Grove. So when travelling out West towards Port Alberni/Tofino, the river would be on the left side of the highway. There are a few banks along the river that would make for a gorgeous backdrop, and would give you some additional privacy as it is off from the main path.
Viewing Deck
Situated along a winding boardwalk, the viewing deck on the south-west side of the park is perched amongst the giants and the hanging moss – a beautiful, quiet space to share your vows.
The suggestions above were simply just that – suggestions. There are SO MANY beautiful spots throughout the park that you could use as a stunning backdrop to elope. The options are also not just limited to within the park boundaries, there are tons of trails that veer off the highway on either side of the park boundary, along with options to visit Cameron Lake.
Best time of year for a Cathedral Grove elopement
The best time of year to elope at Cathedral Grove on Vancouver Island really depends on you – the weather, the crowds, temperatures, etc..
Because Cathedral Grove is known for its impressive old-growth trees, it is undeniably a very popular spot. This is probably the biggest consideration when planning your elopement.
The most popular times for visitors is during the summer months and on weekends. Any day between June-September is going to boast large crowds, so if you are hoping for a summer elopement at Cathedral Grove, it is highly suggested to visit during early morning hours and mid-week.
Another thing to consider when planning your elopement at Cathedral Grove is the weather. Luckily the temperatures at the park are fairly mild year round, making it a great destination for your outdoor ceremony. The greenery is so vibrant in the spring and the fall colours offer so much beauty. Rain is inevitable on Vancouver Island (truly we just embrace it!) so prepare for wet weather if planning an off-season elopement.
Where to stay near Cathedral Grove Provincial Park
Parksville/Qualicum Beach
The closet places to stay near the park if coming from the east side of Vancouver Island is the Oceanside area of Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs. There are tons of resort, hotel, and airbnb options, with lots of activities to keep you busy. Here are some of my faves –
1. The Bayside Oceanfront Resort
2. Oceanside Escapes
3. Beachfront Condo Qualicum
4. Oceanside Cabin in the Cedars
5. Beautiful Cottage on Homestead
Port Alberni
Located on the west side of Cathedral Grove, Port Alberni is a wonderful home base for your elopement. The gateway to the West Coast, Port Alberni offers tons of outdoor activities and fun while visiting. Here are few resort and Airbnb options in the area:
1. Sproat Lake Landing Resort
2. Bright Boho Port Alberni
3. Cabin in Port Alberni
Camping
If you are wanting to be fully immersed in nature while visiting Cathedral Grove for your Vancouver Island elopement, there are some great camping options near the park
The closest camping is Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, located just 10 minutes from Cathedral Grove, with beautiful camp spots along the river, walking trails, and basic amenities. Other camping options that I would suggest are Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, Englishman River Provincial Park, and Spoat Lake Provincial Park.
Cathedral Grove elopement inspiration
If you need some photo inspiration to help you dream up your Cathedral Grove elopement on Vancouver Island, I’ve got you covered! Below are some dreamy, magical photos from my time spent in Cathedral Grove with Mary + Nick
Meet your Vancouver Island elopement photographer
Well hi there – if you don’t know me already, I’m Rae! I’m a Vancouver Island elopement photographer based out of Parksville, BC, and I spend the majority of my time photographing adventurous couples around the island and mainland BC. I’m obsessed with all things elopements, hiking, outdoor adventure, and LOVE, and truly can never get over the fact that I get to do this as my job!
If you feel ready to connect and want to know more about my elopement packages, head to my website to find out more! I can’t wait to get to know you and chat about your dream elopement plans on Vancouver Island!
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