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Elk Falls

Elk Falls is as beautiful as a postcard picture. The rock-surrounded waterfall is similar to something from a fairyland. The moss-covered rocks and the deep clear water underneath create a scene the would take your breath away.
The fantastic Elk Falls Provincial Park provides many activities and services, such as a big campground with an exceptional view and an exciting opportunity to cross Elk Falls Suspension Bridge. The forest around the fall is old and precious; the trees are hundreds of years old and give us a stunning landscape. Autumn is a perfect season for a visit to the red forest and salmon spawn. They are just two reasons to enjoy one of Canada's most popular parks.


Elk Falls Location

Elk Falls is located in Elk Falls Provincial Park near Campbell River City on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. Besides Elk Falls, there are several waterfalls in the area, at the east end of John Hart LakeDeer Falls is about one kilometre (0.6 miles) away, and you can also find Moose Falls.  Three dams in the park were placed, which are using for producing power.
There are many places worth seeing in the area, especially for those who crave originality and historical sites such as Maritime Heritage Center, Nuyumbalees Cultural Center, and Museum At Campbell River.


How to Get to Elk Falls by Car

From Victoria:
The fastest route to Get to Elk Falls from Victoria is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N. It is 270 km (167.7 miles) and takes about 3 hours. This route has restricted usage or private roads.
Get on BC-19 N in Nanaimo from Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and drive 106 km (65.8 miles). The road merges onto BC-19 N, and you need to go 159 km (98.8 miles) more. Take Gold River Hwy/BC-28 W to your destination. After 4.8 km (3 miles), you will reach Elk Falls.

From Nanaimo:
Getting to Elk Falls from Nanaimo is via BC-19 N. It is 160 km (99.4 miles) and takes about one hour and 40 minutes. This route has restricted usage or private roads.
Take Third St to BC-19 N for 3.3 km (2 miles) and turn right onto BC-19 N (signs for Campbell R). Drive 151 km (93.8 miles) and take Gold River Hwy/BC-28 W to your destination. After 4.8 km (3 miles), you will reach Elk Falls.


The Hike to Get to Elk Falls

1. "Elk Falls Loop Trail" is a 1.4 km (0.8 miles) loop with 45 m (147.6 ft) of elevation gain. It is near Quinsam 12 and goes by the fall; the path is easy and has several activities available. The best time to visit is from March till October. If you plan to hike the trail with your dog, you must know that domestic animals must be kept on a leash.

2. "Millenium Trail to Elk Falls" is a moderate level loop with 6.4 km (3.9 miles) length and 224 m (735 ft) of elevation gain. It is located near Quinsam 12. Activities such as hiking, nature trips, and bird watching can be done on this path. The best time to use the loop is from March until October. Dogs must be kept on a leash.

3. "Elk Falls via Millenium Trail" is a loop with 3.9 km (2.4 miles) length and 102 m (334.6 ft) of elevation gain. It is an easy-level trail near Campbell River. All skill levels can use the path for activities like hiking, nature trips, and bird watching. Dogs must be kept on a leash.


History of Elk Falls

In 1940 the Elk Falls Provincial Park was established to protect the Elk Falls and the canyon. Campbell River was the Coast Salish people living area until the Kwakwaka'wakw people took over the Comox Valley to enslave the people.
Doctor Samuel Campbell was the historian and surgeon in the service of Gregory Henry Richards. The community took his name after the first post-service was established.


Things to do around Waterfall the Elk Falls Area

There are numerous things to do at Elk Falls Provincial Park, but with restrictions on winter adventures. So it's best to visit in warmer seasons. Activities available in the area include cycling, which is only permitted on the roadways, and on the Pumphouse Trail, you can find an opportunity for mountain biking.
Fishing in BC needs a license; if you acquire it, you can enjoy freshwater fishing and ocean fishing in Campbell River Dam and the town of Campbell River.
Hiking is joyful given the beautiful surroundings and the park's multiple trails; some of them pass by the Elk Falls.
If you need another good reason to visit, consider swimming in the clear and refreshing water holes near the fall, the peace and pleasure you gain are worth it.
The Elk Falls Provincial Park has not failed wildlife lovers. There are several viewing platforms to the park, the waterfall, and the rich ecosystem.


The Most Beautiful Waterfalls Near Elk Falls

Deer Falls

Deer Falls

A great place to heal and recharge on the Campbell River is Deer Falls, a little piece of heaven. Imagine the water descends into an emerald green pool with the sweetest melody that you could hear and the tall trees surrounding the falls. In summer and late spring, the rocks around the pool become moss-covered and create a fabulous view. Watching bears there in summertime eating salmon is fantastic, but don't limit your expectations; the area has a lot to offer as scenery.

Lupin Falls

Lupin Falls

Words cannot describe Lupin Falls because this waterfall's beauty is beyond the world of vocabulary. The water pours gracefully on rocks and carving its way into the hard rock cliff. A forest surrounds the two drops of Lupin Falls and adds to its wonders. Visiting Lupin Falls is a big bonus as it is placed in Strathcona Provincial Park with a lot to offer.

Lady Falls

Lady Falls

Find peace at the bottom of a waterfall where there will be the magic of nature all around you. Lady Falls is a rare sight of beauty and grace. The crystal clear water runs through a lush forest, reaches a rock cliff surrounded by trees, and pours down into a canyon. From afar, it feels like the water is cascading from the trees. The combination is enough for cleansing the mind, soothing the soul, and being there for hours.

Brown's River Falls

Brown's River Falls

Along the Brown River, there is a river fall that completes its attractiveness. The river's stream cascades from rock cliffs and makes Brown's River Falls. It is also known as Medicine Bowl, a series of falls in a lush green forest. The landscape is worthy enough to sit on a rock and watch it for hours, and the sound of the waterfall is like a piece of music on repeat, which you would not become bored with it.

Myra Falls (Lower Myra Falls)

Myra Falls (Lower Myra Falls)

In the south end of Buttle Lake at Strathcona Provincial Park, you can find Myra Falls (or Lower Myra Falls), a Jewel of natural wonders. This seven-drop waterfall is beautiful all year round, and it feels like you're in a land of fantasy. The tremendous view of the place and shades of green and blue of the pool under the falls make a great scene perfect for photography.

Elk Falls

Elk Falls

With 27 m (89 ft) height, Elk Falls is as beautiful as a postcard picture placed on the west side of Campbell River among the old-growth Douglas firs and cedar trees. The moss-covered rocks, the deep clear water underneath, and Suspension Bridge stretching across the canyon are deep reflections of a fairyland. Step into the hiking trails and enjoy all other beauties like birds.

Della Falls

Della Falls

With 440 m (1443.5 ft) height, Della Falls is the 16th tallest waterfall in the world and the tallest waterfall in Canada. Its beauty catches the eyes like a magnificent white snake that shimmers in the sunlight and finds its way through the forest, creating a landscape fit for postcards. Della Falls consists of three falls, which are cascading from Della Lake to Drinkwater Creek.

Elk Falls Activities

Biking

With the mesmerizing surrounding the roadways in the park, biking will be an experience to remember. Still, the e-bike owners will have to uphold the Biking criteria in BC Parks guidelines.

Kayaking/ Stand Up paddling/ Canoeing

The closest water sports rental service is Destiny River adventures, but you can also bring your instrument, go to John Hart Lake for kayaking or canoeing, etc.

Hiking

The trails in the park are day-use, and some will take you to the magnificent old Douglas fir forest and some to the other waterfalls around the Campbell River.

Fishing

Fishing in the park is rewarding, especially with various water species such as steelhead, cutthroat, and Dolly Varden trout.

Swimming

Swimming is an excellent way to enjoy your visit, especially when the water is clear and inviting.

Camping

The park has a campground with services such as toilets and drinking water. Winter camping is also available but without the services.

Wildlife Viewing/ Bird Watching

Wildlife and birds in the park are various such as Great blue herons, killdeer, and Glaucous-Winged Gulls.

What you Can Expect to Do Near Elk Falls

Hiking on the Mount Menzies Access Road

Hiking on the Mount Menzies Access Road

Hiking on the Mount Menzies Access Road through a logging road and having a forest walk is a challenge you can take near the Campbell River. The trail and the view from the lookout are incredible in colours. Get away from the humans by going on a beautiful trail which is nice and quiet!

Hiking on the Riley Lake to Lookout Loop to Lost Frog

Hiking on the Riley Lake to Lookout Loop to Lost Frog

In an area with several hiking options having the experience of hiking a relatively long trail would be great as it is rich in natural beauties. Besides hikers, Riley Lake to Lookout Loop to Lost Frog is proper for mountain bikers and nature trip lovers. Just find yourself northwest of Campbell River and get the most out of your backpacking trip.

Hiking on the Beaver Pond Elk Falls Circular Route

Hiking on the Beaver Pond Elk Falls Circular Route

With access to the Campbell River and the Quinsam River at the Elk Falls Provincial Park, hiking on the Beaver Ponds Elk Falls Circular Route makes you a fantastic day. The great scenery within the protected area and lots of activities with waterfalls, a park, rivers, a lake, and a campground have exceeded all expectations for nature lovers and hikers.

Hiking on the Quinsam River Hatchery Trail

Hiking on the Quinsam River Hatchery Trail

Have a nice easy hike in the forest with lots of river access points while you have chances for watching wildlife in Quinsam River Hatchery Trail. It is known as one of the most spectacular hiking trails in the area of Campbell River city. Fishing, nature trips, walking, and bird watching are other options for hiking along the river.

Hiking on the Elk Falls via Millenium Trail

Hiking on the Elk Falls via Millenium Trail

The Elk Falls via Millenium Trail is a family-friendly loop. This excellent hike with spectacular views includes waterfalls, Suspension Bridge, sitting areas and the Campbell River. Hiking this trail certainly tests your nerves. It is well maintained with several facilities. Get in touch with beautiful scenery along the river, and enjoy the stunning park with all family members while you are just a few kilometres away from downtown.

Hiking on Elk Falls Viewing Platform Trail

Hiking on Elk Falls Viewing Platform Trail

With a five-kilometre distance from the city, hiking on the Elk Falls Viewing Platform is an opportunity. It is among several hiking trails you can follow and explore in Elk Falls Provincial Park. This easy trail forest walk is age-friendly and features a waterfall and Suspension Bridge with a great view from the point.

Hiking on the Campbell River Canyon View Trail

Hiking on the Campbell River Canyon View Trail

Just outside Campbell River, step into an exciting hiking trail in the middle of a provincial park. It is where the stunning view of Douglas-fir forests comes with a wide variety of wildlife to watch. Find your way alongside the river in a loop which in some parts would be a challenge. It would be great if you plan to be there in the afternoon with a view of the sun when you cross the river.

Mount Adrian Snowmobiling

Mount Adrian Snowmobiling

As one of the highest points of Vancouver Island, Mount Adrian offers great snowmobiling, among other winter activities. It has two summits that feature Strathcona Provincial Park in every direction—looking for a place to have winter excitement? Nowhere is better than Mount Adrian.

Mount Washington Snowmobiling

Mount Washington Snowmobiling

Snowmobilers and sledding enthusiasts have the chance to go snowboarding in the morning and waterskiing in the afternoon. The warm dressing is critical during snowmobiling in Mount Washington. Besides, the fantastic view there is fabulous for photography.

Mount Washington Snowboarding

Mount Washington Snowboarding

As the second busiest winter recreational destination in BC, Mt. Washington Ski Resort in Comox Valley offers a wide range of snowboarding facilities. Mountain climbing enthusiasts who choose Mount Washington for snowboarding have the chance to look across the Strait of Georgia and other spectacular views, such as the Strathcona Provincial Park region.

Mount Washington Snowshoeing

Mount Washington Snowshoeing

Being the busiest winter recreational destination in BC, Mount Washington provides you with incredible winter activities, including snowshoeing. While you are on the snow, enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Strait of Georgia and the Sunshine Coast from Powell River to Sechelt. Moreover, several nearby resorts are ready to offer service to visitors annually.

Mount Washington Skiing

Mount Washington Skiing

As one of the biggest and most visited ski resorts in Comox Valley, The Mount Washington resort is a summer-winter destination primed with several facilities to serve skiing followers. The high rate of snowfall and spectacular views of the ocean, and ample facilities for winter activities multiply the attractiveness of Mount Washington.

Camping in Buttle Lake Campground

Camping in Buttle Lake Campground

Home to many campsites with all kinds of facilities and services right on the shoreline, Buttle Lake campground offers you the best opportunities to explore the shore. There you can do a lot of activities and enjoy seeing marine creatures.
Annually, the campground welcomes RV and vehicle campers. Also, you can have a good time camping in your tents.

Camping in Ralph River Campground

Camping in Ralph River Campground

Camping in Ralph River Campground offers a bit more comfortable experience of exploring the park. It's adjacent to Buttle Lake, with numerous campsites all along the glorious shoreline of it. It is where you will feel a sense of being in the wilderness with beautiful sights and spectacular views from several sites over the valleys.

Camping in Baby Bedwell Lake Campground

Camping in Baby Bedwell Lake Campground

Located in the Strathcona Provincial Park near Bedwell Lake, camping is possible in a nice backcountry campground on Baby Bedwell Lake, set in the lush forest surrounded by majestic mountains. Beautiful alpine forest, perfect swimming, breathtaking view of the trail, small ponds and lakes surrounded by glacial mountain peaks are some of the area's attractions. They are enough to fascinate visitors and campers.

Elk Falls Outline

Specifications

Climate

Timing

1. All the climate data are on average.

What you Can Expect to See Near Elk Falls

Buttle Lake

Buttle Lake

Are you struggling with spending a ton of time searching for the best family-friendly vacation? Then you need to visit Buttle Lake and get better results camping around it. Learn how Buttle Lake gives you an unfair advantage with camping, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in Strathcona Provincial Park, the oldest provincial park on Vancouver Island.

Campbell River

Campbell River

Campbell River is the fourth largest city on Vancouver Island. It has long been called "the Salmon Capital of the World." Campbell River has a reach ecosystem and beautiful waterfalls. Fishing, skiing at Mount Washington, playing golf, and seasonal activities like bear and whale watching are among the best things you can do in Campbell River.

Campbell Lake

Campbell Lake

Campbell Lake is one of the largest artificial lakes on Central Vancouver Island. The area is peaceful enough to sit on the shore or top of a mountain with a great view. The magnificent reflections of mountains and trees, specifically pine forests, on the lake create photogenic scenes and a camping hot spot. Fishing is possible all year round. Have excellent swimming at the start of summer.

Mount McBride

Mount McBride

Mount McBride with 2083 m (6834 ft.) height is the seventh highest mountain on Central Vancouver Island. Atop Mount McBride, the 360° panoramic view of Strathcona Provincial Park is rewarding, besides vistas of the highest mountains on Vancouver Island, including Golden Hinde, Mt Colonel Foster, King's Peak, Elkhorn Mountain, and Rambler Peak.

Elkhorn Mountain

Elkhorn Mountain

Elkhorn Mountain is located in the Elk River Mountains of the Vancouver Island Ranges. It is the second-highest peak on Vancouver Island at 2194 m (7198 ft.) elevation. Atop of the Elkhorn Mountain, the commanding views of mountain peaks surrounding overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the Strait of Georgia are rewarding, as well as splendid Strathcona Provincial Park.

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens is a fantastic natural garden with delightful paths, a creek, and great open spaces. It is home to plenty of native plants, wildflowers, and birds. The garden features one of the largest collections of rhododendrons in Western Canada, with over 3000 plantings. The best time to visit is from March to the end of June when the rhododendrons are in full bloom.

Deer Falls

Deer Falls

A great place to heal and recharge on the Campbell River is Deer Falls, a little piece of heaven. Imagine the water descends into an emerald green pool with the sweetest melody that you could hear and the tall trees surrounding the falls. In summer and late spring, the rocks around the pool become moss-covered and create a fabulous view. Watching bears there in summertime eating salmon is fantastic, but don't limit your expectations; the area has a lot to offer as scenery.

Halifax Range

Halifax Range

The Halifax Range is a small mountain range consists of hills covered by gorgeous trees. The area is ornamented with wildlife like elk, dear, bear, and many bird species. While ascending the mountain, mountaineers will be refreshed by the Halifax Range's pleasant ambiance overlooking the Johnstone Strait. McCreight Lake and Pye Lake are nearby suitable for camping with facilities.

Strathcona Provincial Park

Strathcona Provincial Park

Strathcona Provincial Park is a large mountainous natural park and the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. Excellent hiking trails, coastal areas, lakes, creeks, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and wildlife made this park a perfect destination for adventurous travellers. Summers are usually pleasantly warm, and winters are almost mild except for the higher levels. So, it is a great place to recharge.

Lupin Falls

Lupin Falls

Words cannot describe Lupin Falls because this waterfall's beauty is beyond the world of vocabulary. The water pours gracefully on rocks and carving its way into the hard rock cliff. A forest surrounds the two drops of Lupin Falls and adds to its wonders. Visiting Lupin Falls is a big bonus as it is placed in Strathcona Provincial Park with a lot to offer.

Lady Falls

Lady Falls

Find peace at the bottom of a waterfall where there will be the magic of nature all around you. Lady Falls is a rare sight of beauty and grace. The crystal clear water runs through a lush forest, reaches a rock cliff surrounded by trees, and pours down into a canyon. From afar, it feels like the water is cascading from the trees. The combination is enough for cleansing the mind, soothing the soul, and being there for hours.

Brown's River Falls

Brown's River Falls

Along the Brown River, there is a river fall that completes its attractiveness. The river's stream cascades from rock cliffs and makes Brown's River Falls. It is also known as Medicine Bowl, a series of falls in a lush green forest. The landscape is worthy enough to sit on a rock and watch it for hours, and the sound of the waterfall is like a piece of music on repeat, which you would not become bored with it.

Myra Falls (Lower Myra Falls)

Myra Falls (Lower Myra Falls)

In the south end of Buttle Lake at Strathcona Provincial Park, you can find Myra Falls (or Lower Myra Falls), a Jewel of natural wonders. This seven-drop waterfall is beautiful all year round, and it feels like you're in a land of fantasy. The tremendous view of the place and shades of green and blue of the pool under the falls make a great scene perfect for photography.

Elk Falls

Elk Falls

With 27 m (89 ft) height, Elk Falls is as beautiful as a postcard picture placed on the west side of Campbell River among the old-growth Douglas firs and cedar trees. The moss-covered rocks, the deep clear water underneath, and Suspension Bridge stretching across the canyon are deep reflections of a fairyland. Step into the hiking trails and enjoy all other beauties like birds.

Elk Falls Provincial Park

Elk Falls Provincial Park

Elk Falls Provincial Park is a National Park, a friendly site for hiking in nature trails or enjoying lying in the sun listening to the waterfall's soothing sound. The Suspension Bridge stretching across the canyon below the falls is the highest pedestrian bridge on Vancouver Island. Old-growth Douglas firs and cedars are a prominent visit. This nature park is a year-round salmon fishing destination in Canada.

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