The roar of the upper waterfall can be heard when entering Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. This beautiful Vancouver Island park, features an abundance of nature to give you a healthy dose of forest bathing while exploring the easy hiking trails on your way to view two tumbling waterfalls.
This stunning park should not be missed while visiting nearby Port Alberni, Nanaimo, Parksville or Qualicum Beach area.
Englishman Rivers Falls Provincial Park sits on the traditional territory of the Snaw-Naw First Nation and is in the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region, a significant UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
What are the health benefits of ‘Forest Bathing?
Many studies show scientific proof of the health benefits of walking in a forest. The term coined for it is “forest bathing.” Just saying the words has a calming feeling about it. Visions of soft dappled light flowing though leaves and moss laden trees, gently caressing the soul. The smell of the earth and its freshness evoke a bubble of comfort. To hear the sounds of a river dancing, a creek babbling or a waterfall tumbling, naturally induces a state of relaxation. As well, being surrounded by the colour green has positive effects on mood.
Taking time to explore a forest reduces blood pressure and stress, boosts the immune system, improves mental health and much more. The Japanese uncovered the healing practice of shinrin-yokuin (“forest bathing”) in the 1980s to improve psychological and physical health. As noted in the systematic review of Environ Health Prev Med. “It refers to a healing technique that restores the physical and psychological health of the human body through a ‘five senses experience’ (vision, smell, hearing, touch, and taste) when the body is exposed to a forest environment.”
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Things to do in Englishman River Falls Provincial Park
There are plenty of things to do in Englishman River Falls Provincial Park and it’s fun for the whole family.
1. Take the Englishman River Falls hike to the waterfalls
Take a hike through the lush forest to discover two waterfalls at Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. One of the falls drops down into the narrowest B.C. canyon related to a waterfall.
Mist from the waterfall provides a perfect spot for maidenhair ferns to thrive. Download a map of the park.
The Englishman River Falls hike is fairly easy 1.5 km trail, which is well maintained, but note the journey is not flat. The route goes to both the Upper and Lower Falls, over two bridges along the narrow rock canyon, and up-and-down stairs through the dense forest of Douglas fir, cedar, maple and hemlock.
These trails are not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
Hiking trails at Englishman River Falls. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park hiking trails. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Top 10 things do on Vancouver Island. Bridge on the hiking trail at Englishman Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
2. Discover two waterfalls
There are two waterfalls in Englishman River Falls that are easy to view from the trails and bridges.
Lower Falls at Englishman River Falls Provincial Park on Vancouver Island. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
3. Take a swim in the summer
Beautiful crystal clear waters provide a great spot for a summer swim at the base of the lower falls. The water is refreshingly cold.
Crystal-clear waters to swim in at the Lower Falls in Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
4. Look for Spawning Salmon
In the fall, the lower footbridge is a great spot to see spawning salmon. There are four types of Pacific Salmon found in its river, along with Stealhead and Cutthroat Trout. Note: fishing is not allowed in the park.
5. Birdwatching at Englishman River
What birds are found in English River Falls Provincial Park?
Cliffs along Englishman River provide a nesting area for grey American Dippers. Listen for their chirps and singing. These birds hunt underwater for aquatic insects.
6. Enjoy a picnic
There is a large covered picnic area to enjoy with a viewing platform overlooking Englishman River below.
7. B.C. Parks Foundation’s Discover Parks Ambassador Program
Families can take part in a nature walk offered by Jerry’s Rangers in the summer months from June through August.
8. Camp in the park
There are more than 100 campsites available from May to September. Reserve online to avoid disappointment.
Getting to Englishman River Falls
The park is located in Errington, a short drive from Nanaimo, Qualicum Beach, Parksville, Coombs or Port Alberni on Vancouver Island.
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Have you been here? Want to go or have other tips or comments. We'd love to hear from you.