Englishman River Lower Falls
British Columbia • Englishman River Falls Park • 8 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.8 km
Trail Type
Loop
About Englishman River Lower Falls
Lower Falls at Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is a scenic cascade on the Englishman River featuring forested trails, viewpoints and a developed lower viewing area with boardwalks and stairs. The site is popular for short walks, photography, and seasonal salmon viewing on the river. Exact measured height figures vary between sources; the falls are modest in vertical drop compared with larger regional waterfalls.
The Setting
Englishman River Lower Falls sits at 132 metres within Englishman River Falls Park, in the coastal lowlands of British Columbia. The falls drop 8 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Englishman River Lower Falls flows over Karmutsen Formation, a hard volcanic rock layer deposited about 227-237 million years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating a 25-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Englishman River Falls (24 m) lies 0.3 kilometres to the south. Also nearby: Upper Waterfall (17 m, 16.7 km) and Lower Waterfall (5 m, 16.9 km).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The lower falls are on the park's Falls Loop, an easy loop of about 1.8 km from the day-use parking lot. Going counter-clockwise, turn right at the first junction and cross the bridge by the upper falls, then follow the river downstream to a bridge over the lower falls and return to the lot.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 8 metres over hard volcanic rock. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Englishman River Lower Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Pets must be leashed at all times in Englishman River Falls Provincial Park and are not allowed in beach areas or park buildings.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Englishman River Lower Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring for higher flows and lush green forest; fall for autumn colours and possible salmon runs in the river; summer for warm weather and easier access but potentially lower flows. Early morning or weekday visits reduce crowds.
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 include slippery and uneven trail surfaces, steep drop-offs near viewpoints, strong currents in the river, cold water temperatures, and variable weather. Stay on designated trails, keep a safe distance from cliff edges, supervise children closely, and never climb on wet rocks near the falls. Be bear-aware in season (make noise, store food properly) and check for any advisories before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
0.8 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 48 years of record
0.90 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge ENGLISHMAN RIVER NEAR PARKSVILLE (9 km away).
Today
Low
0.8 m³/s
5/10Tomorrow
Low
1.0 m³/s
5/10Sat
Low
1.0 m³/s
4/10Sun
Low
0.8 m³/s
4/10Mon
Low
1.2 m³/s
5/10Tue
Low
1.0 m³/s
5/10Wed
Low
1.0 m³/s
5/10Best window: Today — low flow, cloudy (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early January to mid February, peaking in January.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest WSC stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
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
The park is 13 km southwest of Parksville on central Vancouver Island. Take Errington Road off Highway 4 toward Port Alberni (from Highway 19, take Exit 51 toward Coombs) and follow Errington Road about 9 km to the park's day-use parking lot.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
The park has a small day-use parking lot near the trailheads. Parking can fill on busy weekends and holiday periods; use caution when parking on shoulder areas and follow posted signage.
Elevation
132 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.246542° N, -124.348846° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear shoes with good grip, as trails and rocks can be wet. Fishing is not permitted in the park. Stay on marked trails and supervise children near the river.
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
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Nearby Campground
Pathfinder Camp Resorts - Parksville
8.7 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Englishman River Falls Upper Falls (separate trail), Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Nanaimo, Little Qualicum Falls (further afield), Coombs (Old Country Market).
Wildlife
Local wildlife includes forest birds, small mammals, and the potential for deer and black bears. Salmon runs may occur in the river in the fall. Always store food securely and follow wildlife-safety guidelines.
Cities near Englishman River Lower Falls
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