
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park
Forested park with two stunning waterfalls, offering easy hikes, river swimming, and camping.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for swimming opportunities

Englishman River Falls Provincial Park
Best Time
Best for swimming opportunities

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Forested park with two stunning waterfalls, offering easy hikes, river swimming, and camping.
"Incredibly easy access to spectacular waterfalls and a beautiful canyon."

🚶♀️ Easy Walk to Falls
The main viewpoints are a very short, easy walk from the parking lot. Great for all ages!
🥶 Water is COLD!
If you plan to swim, be ready for bracingly cold water, even in summer.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Upper Falls Viewpoint
Near the main parking lot
A breathtaking view of the upper falls cascading into a narrow, deep canyon. Easily accessible via a short walk.

Lower Falls Trail
Short hike from the main area
A beautiful, family-friendly trail leading to the lower falls, perfect for a short adventure with stunning scenery.

Englishman River Swimming Hole
Along the river
In summer, brave visitors can take a dip in the crystal-clear, albeit very cold, river waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Easy Access to Stunning Falls
Summer Swimming & Cold Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy Walk to Falls
The main viewpoints are a very short, easy walk from the parking lot. Great for all ages!
🥶 Water is COLD!
If you plan to swim, be ready for bracingly cold water, even in summer.
🥾 Slippery Rocks
Rocks near the river can be very slippery, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear.
📸 Breathtaking Views
Don't miss the bridge viewpoint for stunning photos of the canyon and falls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Walk to Falls
The main viewpoints are a very short, easy walk from the parking lot. Great for all ages!
🥶 Water is COLD!
If you plan to swim, be ready for bracingly cold water, even in summer.
🥾 Slippery Rocks
Rocks near the river can be very slippery, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear.
📸 Breathtaking Views
Don't miss the bridge viewpoint for stunning photos of the canyon and falls.
🏕️ Camping Available
The park offers a campground for those wishing to extend their stay.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Englishman River Falls Provincial Park for its stunning natural beauty and incredibly easy access to its two spectacular waterfalls. The short, well-maintained trails make it a perfect spot for families and those seeking scenic views without a strenuous hike. While the river water is bracingly cold, the park offers a refreshing escape and beautiful picnic spots.
"This is a beautiful place with a really easy walking distance to the falls.
When you park your car in the parking lot, it takes less than 5 minutes walk to the bridge then you can enjoy a big fall there.
The best place take your elderly to have a short walk.
It's just a short drive from Parksville."
wah chi yip
"Such a beautiful hike ! We did the lower falls with my 5 year old and 9 year, they both enjoyed the walk and it wasn’t too much for them . Beautiful views and crystal clear water. Definitely worth adding to your list of places to check out if you’re in the area."
Christina H
"Soooooo worth the trip here. Just stunning beautiful views all over the park. The bridge views are breathtaking to say the least. Took a couple families here and from old to young we all had a great time. Some of the hills were a bit steep but doable for the little ones. We took a dip and a tin of pics and had an amazing day looking at the waterfalls and taking in this great country and province."
Booyaka Stubbs (ExplorewithStubbs.com)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located on Vancouver Island, a short drive from Parksville. From Parksville, head north on Highway 19 and take Exit 51 towards Highway 4A East. Follow signs for Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. It's a well-marked destination.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the park entrance, including space for RVs.
Absolutely! Englishman River Falls is conveniently located north of Nanaimo and is a popular stop for those traveling between Nanaimo and Tofino. It's also a feasible day trip from Victoria.
The main viewpoints are easily accessible via short, well-maintained trails from the parking lot. The walk to the upper falls bridge is particularly short and easy.
The main paths to the upper falls viewpoint are generally wide and relatively flat, making them manageable for strollers. However, some areas might be uneven, so caution is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park itself is free. However, there may be fees associated with camping if you plan to stay overnight.
Provincial parks in British Columbia are generally open year-round from dawn until dusk. Specific hours for facilities like restrooms are usually posted at the park.
Yes, there is a campground within the park. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, and can typically be made through the BC Parks reservation system.
The park encourages visitors to stay on marked trails to protect the natural environment. Off-trail exploration is discouraged due to potential damage and safety hazards.
Day use entry to Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is free of charge. You only pay if you are camping overnight.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy short hikes to view the upper and lower falls, take photos, have a picnic, and in the summer, swim in the river. The park also has a campground.
You can see the main upper falls viewpoint in less than 5 minutes from the parking lot. Exploring the lower falls trail adds a bit more time, making it a pleasant short outing.
No, the walk to the upper falls is very easy and short. The trail to the lower falls is also considered easy and suitable for families with young children.
Yes, in the summer months, people often swim in the river. However, the water is known to be very cold, and the rocks can be slippery.
Yes, the park has restrooms available at the entrance, in addition to outhouses.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The bridge overlooking the upper falls offers a dramatic perspective. The trails along the river also provide beautiful shots of the water and surrounding forest.
Morning light can be lovely for the forest and softer waterfall shots. Midday can offer dramatic light in the canyon, but be mindful of harsh shadows.
You can get relatively close to the upper falls via the bridge. For the lower falls, the trail leads you to viewpoints along the riverbank. Be cautious of slippery rocks if you venture near the water.
For silky smooth water, use a slower shutter speed. A tripod is highly recommended to keep your camera steady. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water.
Drone usage is generally restricted in BC Provincial Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the latest BC Parks regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In the summer, the river swimming holes can be a hit, though parents should be prepared for the very cold water and supervise children closely due to slippery rocks. The picnic areas provide a great spot for a family lunch amidst nature. Remember to bring sturdy shoes for everyone, as the rocks near the water can be slick.
🚶♀️ Easy Walk Enthusiasts
📸 Nature Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfalls
Both falls are easily accessible, with the Upper Falls viewpoint being just a very short walk from the main parking area. This makes the park a perfect destination for those seeking natural beauty without a strenuous hike. The sound of the rushing water and the lush, moss-covered surroundings create an immersive natural experience.
Tip: While the falls are the main attraction, the park also features a campground and opportunities for picnicking, making it a great spot for a half-day or full-day excursion.
Summer Activities: Swimming and Picnics
For those who prefer to stay dry, the park offers several picnic areas with tables, making it an ideal location for a family outing or a relaxing lunch amidst nature. The accessible trails allow for easy exploration before or after enjoying a meal.
Community Insight: Redditors often mention the cold water but still recommend it for a refreshing, albeit brief, experience. They also highlight the beauty of the smooth rocks along the riverbanks, perfect for lounging or stacking.
Park Accessibility and Trails
The park offers a network of trails, including the path to the Lower Falls, which is also considered an easy to moderate hike. These trails wind through beautiful old-growth forest, showcasing the lush vegetation and the power of the river. Signs are posted to remind visitors to stay on marked routes, emphasizing the park's commitment to conservation.
Visitor Feedback: Many reviews highlight how easy it is to access the stunning views, with some noting it's 'too short to be called a hike' but perfectly enjoyable for a quick visit.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit