Petroglyph Provincial Park

Located at the southern end of Nanaimo, this 2-hectare park contains sandstone surfaces featuring numerous Indigenous rock carvings near the Nanaimo River estuary.

The park, established in 1948, preserves rock art created by First Nations people that dates back to at least the 10th century CE.

The petroglyphs depict mythological sea creatures, wolves, human figures, and animals that represent the spiritual heritage of Coast Salish and Snuneymuxw First Nations.

Visitors can access the park via a pull-off from Highway 1, approximately 3 kilometers south of Nanaimo, where interpretive boards and concrete replicas await.

The carvings were created at specific locations associated with natural features believed to possess special powers, often marked by waterfalls or distinct rock formations.

Location: Regional District of Nanaimo

Inception: August 24, 1948

GPS coordinates: 49.14111,-123.92694

Latest update: March 3, 2025 23:37