Englishman River Falls Provincial ParkEnglishman River Falls Provincial Park at a Glance
About Englishman River Falls Provincial Park
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.
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.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 0° - 5° | 0° | 215 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 1° - 7° | 1° | 140 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 1° - 9° | 3° | 132 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 3° - 12° | 6° | 88 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 6° - 16° | 11° | 61 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 9° - 19° | 14° | 53 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 11° - 22° | 17° | 28 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 11° - 23° | 17° | 40 mm | - | - | 2.8 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 8° - 19° | 14° | 44 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 5° - 14° | 8° | 128 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 2° - 8° | 3° | 219 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 0° - 5° | 0° | 201 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
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.