Englishman River Falls
British Columbia • Englishman River Falls Park • 24 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.8 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
46 m
About Englishman River Falls
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park features a pair of scenic waterfalls (commonly referred to as the upper and lower falls) set in mature coastal forest. The site includes viewing platforms, a suspension bridge, short walking trails and boardwalks, and is known for accessible viewpoints and seasonal salmon runs in the river. Trails are relatively short and popular with day visitors from the nearby Nanaimo/Parksville area.
The Setting
Englishman River Falls sits at 158 metres within Englishman River Falls Park, in the foothills of British Columbia. The falls drop 24 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Englishman River Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 66-101 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating a 80-foot drop that forms the waterfall.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Englishman River Upper Falls (24 m) lies 0.0 kilometres to the north. Also nearby: Upper Waterfall (17 m, 16.9 km) and Englishman River Lower Falls (8 m, 0.3 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.8-km loop trail gains 46 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The main trails form a short loop that provides viewpoints for both the upper and lower falls. Boardwalks and viewing platforms lead from the parking area to the lower falls and suspension bridge. Stairs and short, sometimes steep sections connect to the upper falls viewpoint. Trails are relatively short, well-marked, and pass through dense coastal forest (cedar, hemlock, and moss-covered slopes). There are side trails and longer walks along the river if you wish to extend the hike.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 24 metres over layered sedimentary rock.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Englishman River Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Englishman River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring for higher water flows and lush green forest; fall for salmon runs and autumn color; summer for drier, warmer weather (but lower flows). Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions when trails and viewpoints can be hazardous.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Englishman River Falls Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards: slippery and wet boardwalks, steep drop-offs, fast-flowing water, strong currents, unstable rocks and edges, seasonal high flows during spring/rain events, and increased slide/mud risk after heavy rain. Do not climb on railings or attempt to descend to the base of the falls where barriers are posted. Keep dogs and children under close supervision. If you encounter wildlife (including bears), follow standard wildlife-safety practices and leave the area calmly. In winter, trails and stairs can be icy, use extreme caution.
Current Water Conditions
0.9 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 53 years of record
0.88 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Nanaimo hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is located on Vancouver Island north of Nanaimo/near Parksville. From Nanaimo follow Highway 19 north toward Parksville/Qualicum Beach and follow signs to Englishman River Falls Provincial Park; the park has a small day-use parking area adjacent to the main trailheads. Coordinates: 49.2435, -124.3484.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small designated parking lot for the park/day-use area. Parking can fill up on weekends and holidays; use caution when parking on road shoulders and observe signage. It may be busiest in summer and during salmon-run weekends.
Elevation
158 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.243473° N, -124.348373° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Arrive early on weekends to secure parking. • Wear sturdy, grippy footwear, trails and boardwalks can be wet and slippery. • Stay behind railings and do not climb on rocks near the falls. • Fall (salmon run) brings additional visitors and wildlife viewing opportunities, bring binoculars. • Leave no trace: carry out trash and respect posted signs and closures. • Check BC Parks or local updates for trail closures or advisories before visiting.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This easy 1.8 km hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Pathfinder Camp Resorts - Parksville
9 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park (Parksville), Cathedral Grove (MacMillan Provincial Park), Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, Parksville/Qualicum Beach towns and shoreline attractions.
Wildlife
Expect riparian and coastal forest species: salmon (seasonal), bald eagles, various waterfowl, raccoons, deer and the possibility of black bears. Smaller mammals, amphibians and abundant bird life are common.
Cities near Englishman River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Englishman River Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.