Who’s ready to explore more of Vancouver Island before summer’s end? Situated just two kilometres from downtown Campbell River, Elk Falls is a stunning destination for year-round fishing, hiking, and waterfall-chasing, all rolled into one. Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” the provincial park is considered one of the most popular parks on the Island, world-renowned for its fishing opportunities.
Spawning salmon
In addition to an extensive network of forested trails, the Quinsam salmon hatchery is a source of spawning salmon every fall. So if you’re planning an early fall trip to the Island, you might just witness the incredible natural phenomenon as the salmon spawn by the thousands in the Quinsam and Campbell Rivers.
During the summer months, the park transforms into a swimming hotspot, with multiple tidal lakes in the area, according to BC Parks.
A thundering waterfall
The park is also home to a thundering 25-metre waterfall, Elk Falls, which is located 3 km from the campground. Campers have a picnic area with multiple “easy” walking trails to explore, as well as 77 front-country reservable campsites.
According to BC Parks, this area of Elk Falls also has the only significant stand of old-growth Douglas fir north of MacMillan Park.
A 60-metre-long suspension bridge
Situated in the Elk Falls day-use area, the park’s scenic suspension bridge stretches 60 metres across the canyon below. The trail leading you there from the parking lot is lined with picnic tables and a set of viewpoints, all of which are wheelchair accessible.
However, the stairs, suspension bridge, and lower viewing areas are not classified as wheelchair-accessible.
Those who choose to camp at the park have plenty of day-tripping options, including Gold River, the Sayward Dorest, Kelsey Bay, Rock Bay, Quadra Park, and Cortes Island.
Note that there is currently a cougar in the area around Canyon View Trail, according to BC Parks, so remember to exercise caution and read up on wildlife safety before your visit.
How to get there: Take a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo and drive one hour and 42 minutes (156.3 km) via BC-19 N to Elk Falls Park.
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