VANCOUVER ISLAND - Discover Your Next Adventure:
Beautiful tall waterfall on Vancouver Island in Elk Falls Provincial Park along Campbell River

Elk Falls

Waterfall icon
walk icon
Picnic Icon
Activity:
Walk, Waterfall
Difficulty:
Easy-Moderate
Location:
Campbell River
Time:
1.5 hrs
Distance:
2-5km (3-8mi)

Activity:

Waterfall icon
walk icon
Picnic Icon

Accessibility:

Family access icon with child
wheelchair access icon
Dogs on leash Icon

Highlights Include:

Info Map

Elk Falls Suspension Bridge and Gorgeous Hikes Near Campbell River

Where to this weekend, Vancouver Island: Elk Falls Suspension Bridge

Elk Falls is a fantastic family opportunity to experience the beautiful outdoors. Easy well-marked trails welcome you and feature many spectacular views along the way! Bring your camera to capture three waterfalls and majestic old-growth forests. There is a route for all skill and mobility levels within the Elk Falls Provincial Park.

You will find a fairly easy 1km hike from the parking lot along a wide wheelchair-accessible gravel trail. Passing one opening, you will have the opportunity to peek through the trees at the raging Elk Falls. Continue on just a little further to reach the stairs they will take you down to a viewing platform and the Elk Falls suspension bridge hanging high over Campbel River and Elk Falls. 

The Elk Falls suspension bridge spans 60 meters across the canon to the second viewing platform, where the trail abruptly ends, offering spectacular views of the deep rock canyons and majestic waterfall below. 

Hanging 64 metres above the canyon floor, the Elk Falls suspension bridge was supported by the Rotary Club of Campbell River and showcases the beauty of the canyon. One of Canada’s highest pedestrian suspension bridges.

Tips and Suggestions

Bring a Lunch and Stay While – Elk Falls has so much to offer with canyon views, old-growth forests, a suspension bridge and, of course, Moose and Elk Falls.

No Running Water – the facilities are kept clean, but they are pit toilets, and there is no potable water.

Scared of Heights? – There is no need to go over the suspension bridge to enjoy the trail system. The bridge is for viewing and has another platform on the other side, and that’s it, so feel comfortable staying on solid ground.

0e
Explore the terroir of the Comox Valley region on this wine and distillery tour from Vancouver. During the half-day excursion...
indigenous culture and wildlife tour
This exclusive, small group half day experience incorporates the best of marine wildlife and First Nations culture. The immer...
32
Join us for a full-day adventure in the Discovery Islands and Desolation Sound in one of the richest marine environments on t...
ac
Get up close to some of the biggest marine animals around Vancouver Island on this full-day, small-group sightseeing tour by ...

Elk Falls Trails

The views from the suspension bridge are breathtaking, but Elk Falls Provincial Park has more to give. Backtrack a bit and head towards Old Growth loop trail and Riverside Loop Trail. 

It’s hard to believe that this one section of the park has so much to see! Hiking the Tow loops can add up to 4km to your trip, depending on how adventurous you want to be, but it’s well worth the trek. 

Not far down the accessible trail, you will find a picnic area with washrooms and another viewpoint of Elk Waterfalls and the suspension bridge hanging above. After taking a snack break and a few more photos, continue for about 300m, and you will have to decide. Continue on straight on the regular trail, turn Right to make head along the river on the Riverside Loop or head left for the Old Growth Loop Trail. You can’t make a wrong decision here all trail options have something to offer, and it’s a loop, so you will catch most of what you missed on the way back.

Riverside Loop – This trail is more narrow and has some elevation gain, so can be a little more challenging, but if you are capable, you won’t want to miss out on this trail. Sites include a lookout platform for Elk Falls. Set down lower and closer to the action. Access to the river above the falls (use caution if exploring on the rocks.) And at the end of the trail, you will find Dolphin Pool replenished by Moose Falls, another gorgeous waterfall. 

THAT’S JUST THE WARM-UP?

The Millennium Trail offers a 2.5 km path connecting the Elk Falls use area to the Canyon Loop. It runs along the Campbell river and allows amazing views of the falls, canyon and surrounding mature forest, including old-growth Douglas Fir. 

If you need more hiking in your day, you have more options! The Canyon View Loop is a 4 km trail adjacent to the Quinsam Campground and features a stunning view of the lower canyon. 

Beavers and marsh birds can be spotted along the Kingfisher Trail. This one km trail walks alongside wetlands and connects the campground to the Campbell River. 

Whichever way you choose, be sure to take your time and absorb your surroundings. Beauty abounds in this provincial park – it’s sure to be a fantastic addition to your bucket list!

Elk falls is an amazing park! I had to visit every viewing platform, including the suspension bridge. I ended up walking the whole loop over to moose falls. Trails are well maintained and have easy elevation gains.

ac
Get up close to some of the biggest marine animals around Vancouver Island on...
indigenous culture and wildlife tour
This exclusive, small group half day experience incorporates the best of mari...
0e
Explore the terroir of the Comox Valley region on this wine and distillery to...
32
Join us for a full-day adventure in the Discovery Islands and Desolation Soun...

Chasing Waterfalls

If you love waterfalls, Vancouver Island’s selection is abundant and breathtaking, especially during the wither months. We have compiled an interactive map and a complete list of the best waterfalls on Vancouver Island.
And if hiking or walking is your thing, we have a page for that at Vancouver Island Hikes.

Camping:

Are you looking to set up camp? Elk Falls Provincial Park has a beautiful campground with large private sites along the Quinsam River. 122 vehicle-accessible sites. This is a popular campground, and booking ahead of time is recommended. However, there are 51 sites set aside for first come, first serve campers. More info here on the Elk Falls Quinsam Campground.

Helpful Links:

 

Elk falls trail map for the person who wants to prepare for their family visit to Elk Falls Provincial Park just outside of Campbell River enjoy the suspension bridge

FAQ:

How long is Elk Falls Suspension Bridge?
Completed in 205 Elk Falls Suspension Bridge spans 6o meters (196feet) and is 64 meters (209feet) above the bottom of the canyon.

How far is Elk Falls From the Parking Lot?
An easy one-kilometer walk from the parking lot gets you to the viewing platform and suspension bridge.

Can you Swim at Elk Falls?
There is no swimming at Elk Falls, but just down the trail, you can find a beautiful spot at Dolphin Pool at the foot of Moose falls.

0e
Explore the terroir of the Comox Valley region on this wine and distillery tour from Vancouver. During the half-day excursion...
32
Join us for a full-day adventure in the Discovery Islands and Desolation Sound in one of the richest marine environments on t...
indigenous culture and wildlife tour
This exclusive, small group half day experience incorporates the best of marine wildlife and First Nations culture. The immer...
ac
Get up close to some of the biggest marine animals around Vancouver Island on this full-day, small-group sightseeing tour by ...

AD

Photo Gallery:

Sand beach Airforce Beach Comox
Beach Icon
Picnic Icon
RV Icon

Air Force Beach

This stunning 2 km sand beach located just outside of Comox on Kye Bay is perfect for families
Beautiful tall waterfall on Vancouver Island in Elk Falls Provincial Park along Campbell River
Waterfall icon
walk icon
Picnic Icon
suspension-bridge-icon

Elk Falls

Expect a fantastic experience when visiting Elk Falls! But there is much more to see and do, including a short Old-Growth hike to Moose Falls
A shipwreck at low tide in Royston with very little of the ship remaining covered in barnacles. Part of the Royston Shipwrecks
View point icon
walk icon

Royston Shipwrecks

Nestled meters from the shoreline, the Royston Shipwrecks offer a unique view of decomposing shells of once mighty ships
Fish ladder Nib falls
walk icon
Waterfall icon
swimming icon
Picnic Icon

Nymph Falls

Nymph Falls, has so much to see while keeping the entire family busy. Swim in the river, or take advantage of the multi-use trails
campbell-river-driftwood-whale
10 min stop icon
walk icon
boat-launch-icon
Picnic Icon

Driftwood Whale

Located on the ocean shore of Campbell River. The giant sculpture is an excellent place for a quick pullover stop.
indigenous culture and wildlife tour
This exclusive, small group half day experience incorporates the best of marine wildlife and First Nations culture. The immer...
ac
Get up close to some of the biggest marine animals around Vancouver Island on this full-day, small-group sightseeing tour by ...
32
Join us for a full-day adventure in the Discovery Islands and Desolation Sound in one of the richest marine environments on t...
0e
Explore the terroir of the Comox Valley region on this wine and distillery tour from Vancouver. During the half-day excursion...

Did we miss something?
Have more to add?

Original Author:

Modified: August 22, 2023
Last Visit: July 12, 2022
Join Our Weekly Newsletter
Where to This Weekend?
Vancouver Island's Ultimate Experiences!
For the adventurous, curious and those who love Vancouver Island.
Includes lesser known hikes, stories, and more.

Unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

Pack Out:
We love Vancouver Island and want to keep the natural beauty. Please respect the places you visit and pack out what you pack in and leave the area better than when you arrived. We all know how much trash can spoil an experience and the environment, so please help us keep it clean!

Wildlife:
Vancouver Island is a land of natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Please be aware of your surroundings and take the usual precautions for personal and wildlife safety.
Black bears, cougars and even wolves are common on Vancouver Island for more on Wildlife Safety Click Here 

Tide and Seasonal Safety:
Changing seasons and tides can have a drastic effect on most locations on Vancouver Island. Please be cautious as the information in this post may vary depending on the time of year and weather. Make sure to check for current weather and tide information before you make your journey!
When visiting the beach, it’s essential to pay attention and stay safe! Please be cautious walking on the shore during high tide. At this time, some areas may not be accessible. Click here for the tides in your area. Be aware of ocean currents before swimming, paddle boarding or kayaking.

Land Acknowledgement:
We would like to acknowledge the land we appreciate daily within the 50 First Nations that make up the traditional territories of the Coast Salish, Nuu chah nulth, and Kwakiutl–the first peoples of Vancouver Island .

Disclaimer:
The information on this website should not be taken as accurate, complete or up-to-date. Please check and look into the information yourself. We do not assume any liabilities for the use of this information. It is unreasonable to rely solely upon the information from this website. 

Join Our Bi-Weekly Newsletter
For the adventurous, curious and people who love Vancouver Island.
Includes lesser known hikes, stories, and more.

Unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

Submit a change suggestion:

max of 4 images
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email