Petroglyph Provincial Park
990-960, Trans - Canada Hwy, Nanaimo, BC, Canada
Ancient rock carvings and a glimpse into Nanaimo’s Indigenous heritage.
Petroglyph Provincial Park is one of Nanaimo’s most fascinating cultural and historical sites. Located just south of downtown along Highway 1, this small park protects centuries-old rock carvings — or petroglyphs — created by the Coast Salish people. The carvings are believed to be between 500 and 1000 years old, making this one of British Columbia’s most significant Indigenous heritage sites.
The park is set in a peaceful forested area and features a short walking trail that leads to sandstone rock faces etched with mysterious symbols, faces, animals, and mythological beings. These carvings are thought to represent spiritual stories, ancestral connections, and elements of the natural world that were sacred to the First Nations people of the region.
An interpretive area near the entrance provides replicas of the carvings, allowing visitors to better see the details and understand their cultural meaning. Visitors are encouraged to view, photograph, and learn — but not touch or trace — the original petroglyphs to help preserve them for future generations.
Though small in size, Petroglyph Provincial Park offers a deep and meaningful experience. The quiet setting invites reflection, respect, and appreciation of the region’s long human history. Best time to visit: mornings and late afternoons offer good light for viewing the carvings.
