Englishman River Upper 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
50 m
About Englishman River Upper Falls
Englishman River Upper Falls is the upstream cascade in Englishman River Falls Provincial Park on central Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The falls sit in a narrow, tree-lined canyon and are one of two main waterfall viewpoints in the park (Upper and Lower Falls). The site is popular for short nature walks, photography and observing a mossy west-coast forest and stream corridor. Coordinates: 49.2435, -124.3484. Waterflow is typically highest in spring and after fall rains; conditions and appearance may vary by season.
The Setting
Englishman River Upper 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 Upper 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 Falls (24 m) lies 0.0 kilometres to the south. 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 50 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trails to the Upper Falls are generally short and well-marked, with boardwalks, stairs and maintained footpaths in places. Viewpoints are provided above the canyon; getting down to the riverbed is typically discouraged or restricted due to steep banks and sensitive habitat. Surfaces include roots, muddy sections after rain, and some staircases, wear sturdy footwear. Trail network in the park links to the Lower Falls and other short loops, so you can combine viewpoints into a longer walk if desired.
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 Upper Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Englishman River Upper Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt and higher flows) and fall (after rainy periods) for the most impressive water flow. Early mornings and weekdays reduce crowds. Summer offers warmer, drier trail conditions but lower flows.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Englishman River Falls Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery and uneven trail surfaces, steep drop-offs at canyon viewpoints, fast-moving water and cold plunge pools. Rocks near the river can be slick; avoid climbing on wet rocks and do not cross fences or go beyond guard rails. Watch for seasonal high water and flooding after heavy rain. Practice bear awareness: make noise, store food securely, and keep dogs under control. Always follow posted signs and park regulations.
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 between Parksville/Qualicum Beach and Errington, roughly 23 miles (about 37 km) by road from Nanaimo. From Highway 19 follow the Parksville/Qualicum exits and follow signage to Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. Use the provided coordinates (49.2435, -124.3484) for GPS navigation. Check BC Parks for up-to-date access information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small day-use parking lot at the park that serves the waterfall trails. Parking fills quickly on weekends and holidays; overflow parking along park access roads may be limited or restricted. No confirmed reservation system for regular day use (check BC Parks for current rules).
Elevation
158 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.243481° N, -124.348376° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early on busy days to secure parking. Wear shoes with good traction, rock and boardwalks can be slippery when wet. Stay behind railings and respect posted closures; do not climb down to the water where signs prohibit it. Bring insect repellent in summer and rain gear in wetter seasons. Cell coverage may be spotty in parts of the park. Check BC Parks for alerts (maintenance, closures, fire bans).
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This easy 1.8 km hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
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
9 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Englishman River Lower Falls (same park), Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park (Parksville), Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, the towns of Parksville and Qualicum Beach.
Wildlife
Typical island coastal forest wildlife: deer, a variety of songbirds and waterfowl, and occasional black bears. The Englishman River is a salmon-bearing stream, there may be salmon runs in fall (seasonal and variable). Stay alert and give wildlife space.
Cities near Englishman River Upper Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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