Englishman River Falls Provincial Park
Park Park with twin waterfalls and forest trails
On Vancouver Island near Parksville, Englishman River Falls Provincial Park features accessible trails to two waterfalls, viewing platforms, swimming holes and riverside picnicking-popular for day hikes and family outings.
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park protects two waterfalls and surrounding old-growth forest on the Englishman River on Vancouver Island. The park is a popular local destination for short hikes, picnics and nature viewing.
Trails and boardwalks lead to viewpoints at both the Upper and Lower Falls, and a suspension bridge crosses the river at higher elevation for an elevated view of the gorge. The park includes a small campground and day-use areas that serve families and day visitors.
The park conserves both the scenic river canyon and adjacent forest habitats and is used primarily for short recreational walks and nature appreciation rather than extensive backcountry travel.
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park lies on central Vancouver Island near the communities of Parksville and Errington and is accessible by local roads from the surrounding towns.
- Visitor access: Short loop trails and boardwalks provide easy access to viewpoints; trail surfaces can be uneven and wet, so suitable footwear is recommended.
What to See #
- Upper Falls: A higher-elevation waterfall reached by a boardwalk and trail offering an upstream viewpoint across a rocky gorge and forested canyon.
- Lower Falls: A lower, more accessible falls with nearby picnic and day-use areas; trails link the upper and lower viewpoints.
- Campground and day-use areas: A small campground and day-use facilities located within the park that support short stays and family visits during the warmer months.
How to Get to Englishman River Falls Provincial Park #
Englishman River Falls is located inland from Parksville on Vancouver Island; follow Highway 19 and take the Englishman River Road exit to the park. There is parking near the main trailhead.
Tips for Visiting Englishman River Falls Provincial Park #
- Walk both trails: the Short Loop for quick viewpoints and the longer trail to the falls for a more secluded experience.
- Expect slippery rocks near lookouts-good traction footwear recommended.
- Combine with a drive along Highway 19 for views and side trips to nearby coastal towns.
Best Time to Visit Englishman River Falls Provincial Park #
Spring through early autumn provides the most comfortable hiking and best flows at the falls.
Weather & Climate near Englishman River Falls Provincial Park #
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Mediterranean - Warm-Summer Mediterranean climate with mild summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 0°C to 22°C. Abundant rainfall (1349 mm/year), wettest in November.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (215 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (140 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (132 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 11°C. The driest month with just 28 mm.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm).
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 5°C. Significant rainfall (128 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (219 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is the coolest month with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (201 mm).