Englishman River Falls is a vivid example of nature's wonders in the world, with the water streaming among the rocks and the rock gap that embraces the cascading water. Beautiful lower falls have turquoise, clear water underneath and the water descending in white surges. The exquisite combination of forest atmospheres and stubborn rocks makes this place's beauty go beyond comprehension.
A hike to the waterfall can be a lifetime experience. Englishman River Falls Provincial Park will provide a lush and refreshing space with Douglas fir, cedar, hemlock, and maple trees. In summer, Englishman River Falls is in its prime, and the pool under the lower falls makes an excellent spot for swimming.
Englishman River Falls (Lower Falls) is located in Parksville, about 7.7 km (4.7 miles) south of Errington in Vancouver Island, Canada. Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is known as one of the most beautiful parks in BC, and the Englishman River goes through it and creates magical views. The park is also near Qualicum Beach.
Little Qualicum Falls, which is placed in Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, is one of the nearest waterfalls about 25 km (15.5 miles) away to the northwest. Some other waterfalls in the area are Ammonite Falls, Stocking Creek Waterfall, and Christie Falls.
From Nanaimo:
Getting to Englishman River Falls from Nanaimo is via BC-19 N. It is 48.5 km (30.1 miles) away and takes almost 40 minutes.
Head west on Fitzwilliam St toward Wesley St. After 800 m (2624.6 ft), continue onto Third St. Drive 1.9 km (1.1 miles) and continue onto Jingle Pot Rd. After 650 m (2132.5 ft), turn right onto BC-19 N (signs for Campbell R). Drive 32.6 km (20.2 miles) and take exit 51 for BC-4 Alt toward Parksville/Coombs. After 550 m (1804.4 ft), turn left onto Alberni Hwy/BC-4A W (signs for Coombs). Drive 3.3 km (2 miles) more and turn left onto Errington Rd. After 8.8 km (5.4 miles), you will reach Englishman River Falls (Lower Falls).
From Victoria:
The access to Englishman River Falls from Victoria is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N. It is 159 km (98.7 miles) and takes about 2 hours.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N for 1.2 km (0.7 miles). Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N to Alberni Hwy/BC-4A W in Nanaimo F. Take exit 51 from BC-19 N. Drive 145 km (90 miles) and go to Errington Rd. After 12.1 km (7.5 miles), you will reach Englishman River Falls (Lower Falls).
"Englishman River Falls Trail" is a loop with 1.3 km (0.8 miles) length and 52 m (170.6 ft) of elevation gain. The difficulty level is easy, suitable for children and pets. This crowded path is near Parksville, and along there are waterfalls, railroads, and wildlife. Numerous activities can be done in the park. Hiking in the energizing atmosphere and enjoying the incredible view is worthwhile and more.
The story of how the Englishman River got its current name is an interesting one. According to indigenous people, a skeleton was found near the waterfall that belonged to a Caucasian man. The river was given this name because an Englishman's attempt to cross failed and ended up drowning. The park itself was formed in the 1940s to protect the environment and ecosystem residing in the area.
As far as the activities go, Englishman River Falls has a handful, mostly sports. Hiking or walking in the park, especially with the views, is mind-clearing and refreshing, and the trail has no difficulty, so don't worry about your children or pets and enjoy the peaceful path.
The best spot for swimming in the Englishman River is under the lower fall, where the water is refreshing. The good news for bikers is that biking has several roadways, but that's the limit; biking is only allowed on roadways. And wildlife lovers, for you, the park provides some viewing stations, so go ahead take advantage of them.