Exploring Jordan River, BC

Jordan River BC is located approximately 70 km west of Victoria BC on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Mostly known for its surf breaks and miles of wild coastline this day saw a calm sea with an amazing end to the day watching the sun go down. You’ll also find a convenient picnic park and a small campsite for overnight visitors. ⁠

History

Between 1907 to 1980’s there was logging operations. In 1962, a mine was reactivated by Cowichan Copper. This operation brought an influx of miners to the area; but a year later the mine flooded and mine was shut down. The community reached 1,000 people in the early 1900s. Today there is very little evidence of the community that once existed; with the exception to a few remaining abandoned buildings. As you can see in the picture, these older homes are no longer safe to enter.

Abandoned Power Plant

The Vancouver Island Power Company completed construction of the Jordan River hydroelectric system in 1911. However, as newer and more efficient power generating stations were brought online it was no longer efficient to keep running. Today the structure, is an abandoned powerhouse which towers through the brush and is just incredible to see. From the overgrown vines to the collection of graffiti on the industrious walls, the building makes for a unique place to explore with extreme care. The inside is been a cement canvas with colourful artwork from graffiti artists.

Diversion Dam

In 2014 after a six-year seismic study on B.C. Hydro dams; it was found that the dam above Jordan River would be the most likely to burst in a major earthquake. This was due to its precarious position near a fault line; which resulted in Jordan River diversion dam being shut down.