VANCOUVER ISLAND - Discover Your Next Adventure:
Waterfalls outside of Parksville on Vancouver Island. Provincial Park worth visiting.

Englishman River Falls

Waterfall icon
Picnic Icon
walk icon
Activity:
Walk, Waterfall
Difficulty:
Easy-Moderate
Location:
Parksville
Time:
30-45min
Distance:
2km (1.2mi)

Activity:

Waterfall icon
Picnic Icon
walk icon

Accessibility:

Family access icon
wheelchair access icon

Highlights Include:

Info Map

The best way to Experience Englishman River Falls

Where to this weekend, Vancouver Island: Englishman River Falls Park | Add This One To Your Vancouver Island Waterfall Bucket List

Gather your loved ones and embark on a thrilling adventure to one of Vancouver Island’s most enchanting destinations. Don’t forget to pack your camera, a delicious picnic, and your trusty pair of comfortable shoes!

Follow the captivating 2km loop trail that leads you to a breathtaking spot where the water glistens in a mesmerizing shade of blue beneath a picturesque bridge. As you continue your journey, the trail gracefully winds back up along the canyon, offering a magnificent view of the year-round waterfall cascading down the Englishman River. This wonderful place is a true gem waiting to be discovered!

Lower Falls First

Englishman river Lower bridge and swimming holeIt seems like a small thing but if you head to the left on the 2 km loop that takes you past the lower then back up to the bridge over upper Englishman River Falls. This way you take the long way to reach the main attraction rather then getting desert first you are building up to the final act. Going clockwise around the loop is also easier making it more accasible for most hiking levels, with wide paths and plenty of scenic views winding through lush forest before opening up to a breathtaking view of the Englishman River cascading down into two spectacular waterfalls.

Lower Falls

Our dog on stone stairs along the trail heading from lower the lower falls to the upper Englishman falls bridgeThe trail starts off heading downhill, weaving through the trees, until you reach the first bridge, then opens to the Englishman River. Depending on the time of year and water flow, you will be greeted by a large rock wedged in the canyon that is impressive in itself. For the brave who are willing to take on the cold water, the crystal clear pool makes for one of the best swimming holes in the area.

During heavy rains, as the river rises, the giant rock works as a dam, causing the water to rush over the boulder and become the lower falls.

Now that you have crossed the river, it’s time to continue along the well-marked trail with switchbacks up the hill, making this way the easier way up along the canyon through the old-growth forest.

Englishman River Falls

View of the upper Englishman River Falls from the bridgeOnce you reach the top, you will be rewarded with one of the Englishman River’s most spectacular sights; the Upper Falls. Here, the Englishman river cascades over the rocky edge, falling into what seems to be an endless void. Standing on the bridge with the Englishman River Falls on one side of the bridge and a canyon on the other, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty and serenity of this place.

This is why we like to start the hike with the lower falls and finish strong by taking a few moments to relax and take some pictures to appreciate all that Englishman River Falls has to offer. 

Wheelchair Accessible

If you prefer a quick stop — head directly to the upper Englishman River Falls from the parking lot. It’s an easy, short walk that is wheelchair accessible, the bridge is solid and wide and has excellent views for any age and ability.

Picnic Area and Amenities

Protected picnic site at Englishman River falls provincial park ParksvilleOnly metres away from the parking lot are the washrooms and picnic area, making it a great spot to enjoy lunch or a snack before heading back out for your next adventure.

During the summer months, you will find flush toilets and cold water taps. There are a lot of picnic tables to choose from, including six located under a shelter protecting you on rainy days. In the winter, outhouses are available.

Tips and Suggestions

  • It’s no hidden treasure. Englishman River Falls is a popular spot and for good reason. The parking lot is large (approximately 105 vehicles) but fills up quickly in summer, so arriving early is beneficial.
  • Start your walk heading to the lower falls first and building up to the upper falls, taking in all the stunning views. Doing it the other way is a little anti-climactic and more challenging.
  • Don’t forget to add Little Qualicum Falls, Coombs and Cathedral Grove on your way to Port Alberni and Tofino.
DISCOVER MORE
the best spots directly in your inbox

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

Riverbend Cave Explorer
Illuminate the shimmering crystals of Riverbend Cave on this small-group adventure. For those who want to explore a cave with...
caving e1
Explore the marble passages and crystal caverns created by the ‘Ice Age’ on this guided, 3-hour caving and hiking expedition....
41
Explore Vancouver Island's magnificent scenery on a full-day, private tour from Victoria to Englishman River Falls, Little Qu...

Location and how to get to Englishman River Falls

There are two Englishman River Parks.  Englishman River Falls are located in the Provincial Park further upstream. Take Errington Rd all the way to the park gates, continuing past the campground right to the gravel parking lot. 

Located only 13 kilometres southwest of Parksville and 50km from downtown Nanaimo. The falls are 9km off Hwy 4A (Alberni Hwy), making it a great stop to add to Coombs and Cathedral Grove on your way to Port Alberni and Tofino.

Directions – Google Maps

Englishman River Falls Campground

As you enter the park, you will pass the Englishman River Falls Provincial Park Campground, It’s a wonderful, quiet campground with 104 quiet and private sites. With basic amenities, this is a great campground to get away from it all, with hiking and biking trails and a waterfall and swimming hole at your fingertips.

 

Map of the hike at Englishman River Falls close to Parksville

I am so glad we made a stop here. It was a short walk to the beautiful falls and a lovely saunter in the forest, the terrain was easy to navigate with some stairs along the way and the scenery was magical. There are also bathrooms available and they offer plenty of parking in the lot. Would definitely recommend.

caving e1
Explore the marble passages and crystal caverns created by the ‘Ice Age’ on t...
41
Explore Vancouver Island's magnificent scenery on a full-day, private tour fr...
Riverbend Cave Explorer
Illuminate the shimmering crystals of Riverbend Cave on this small-group adve...
DISCOVER MORE
the best spots directly in your inbox

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

In Conclusion

To sum it up, the Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is a beautiful spot to enjoy nature and take in the incredible views of the Englishman River. The park has a 2km loop walking trail that takes you along the river and past both lower and upper falls, as well as picnic areas and flush toilets. If you’re looking for a peaceful day hike or an easy overnight camping trip, Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is worth checking out.

FAQ:

WHERE IS ENGLISHMAN RIVER FALLS LOCATED?
Located in Englishman River Falls Provincial Park (different from the regional park) 13 kilometres southwest of Parksville and 50km from downtown Nanaimo. The falls are located 9km off Hwy 4A (Alberni Hwy). MAP

WHAT KIND OF TERRAIN IS AT ENGLISHMAN RIVER FALLS?
The short walk to Upper Falls is a wide and wheelchair-accessible trail. The Trail to the lower falls is still available for most abilities but has some grade to climb, with a 52 m elevation gain.

ARE THERE AMENITIES AT ENGLISHMAN RIVER FALLS?
Yes, Englishman River Falls has a picnic area and amenities like flush toilets and cold water taps during summer. There are also pit toilets available in the winter.

CAN YOU SWIM AT THE ENGLISHMAN RIVER FALLS?
Lower Englishman River Falls is a popular spot for swimming in the summer. The water is cold, and it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution when in or near water.

HOW LONG IS THE WALK AT ENGLISHMAN RIVER FALLS?
The walk should take around half an hour, depending on how often you stop to take in the views. If you’re in a rush, you can walk directly from the parking lot to the upper falls in a few minutes.

ARE DOGS ALLOWED?
Yes, but must be kept on a leash.

Riverbend Cave Explorer
Illuminate the shimmering crystals of Riverbend Cave on this small-group adventure. For those who want to explore a cave with...
caving e1
Explore the marble passages and crystal caverns created by the ‘Ice Age’ on this guided, 3-hour caving and hiking expedition....
41
Explore Vancouver Island's magnificent scenery on a full-day, private tour from Victoria to Englishman River Falls, Little Qu...

Photo Gallery:

Waterfalls outside of Parksville on Vancouver Island. Provincial Park worth visiting.
Waterfall icon
Picnic Icon
walk icon

Englishman River...

Everything you need to know about Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. The waterfalls, accessible trail, parking camping and more.
Looking out at Neck Point rock formation and land bridge during low tide
walk icon
Beach Icon
View point icon
camping-icon-swiming

Neck Point Park

Neck Point Park in Nanaimo: scenic trails and diverse wildlife. Perfect for family picnics, birdwatching, and stunning photography.
Goats on the roof in Coombs BC. The perfect quick stop when heading west from Nanaimo to Tofino.
10 min stop icon
icon directory food
icon directory shopping

Coombs Goats on ...

Coombs is a charming stop on your drive to Tofino and is well known for its iconic goats that live on the roof of the local grocery store
St-Annes-Church-with-sign (2)
icon-single-HISTORY-H

St Anne's Log Ch...

Visit the oldest surviving log church and the cemetery of the final resting place of the original settlers of Parksville on Vancouver Island
Couple walking on one of the best beaches in Nanaimo
Beach Icon

Blueback Beach

Visit this lovely beach during low tide to get the most out of the soft sand and expansive area
41
Explore Vancouver Island's magnificent scenery on a full-day, private tour from Victoria to Englishman River Falls, Little Qu...
Riverbend Cave Explorer
Illuminate the shimmering crystals of Riverbend Cave on this small-group adventure. For those who want to explore a cave with...
caving e1
Explore the marble passages and crystal caverns created by the ‘Ice Age’ on this guided, 3-hour caving and hiking expedition....

Did we miss something?
Have more to add?

Original Author:

Modified: November 2, 2023
Last Visit: June 7, 2022
Join Our Bi-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. 

Submit a change suggestion:

max of 4 images
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email