Unique Outdoor Adventures to Enjoy Near Parksville

Sunrise Ridge Resort is located about halfway between Victoria and Campbell River on picturesque Vancouver Island. This location is ideal as it allows you access to a variety of stunning hikes and unique attractions.

Making a day trip to Englishman falls is a no brainer! It’s a quick 20 minute drive from Sunrise Ridge Waterfront Resort, and offers lots of different ways to explore its beauty. The falls are located in Englishman River Falls Provincial park. It features two stunning waterfalls nestled amid Vancouver Island’s rich old growth forest. There are places for swimming in the summer, and lots of trails to explore year round. There is a large parking lot available located central to the falls and different trails. The Englishman River Falls Trail is an easy walk and the trail is well maintained. It offers access to both waterfalls with bridges to ensure exquisite views. This map can help you plan your route!

A quick 40 minute drive from Sunrise Ridge Waterfront Resort is a hidden gem aptly named The Hole in the Wall. Although it seems as though this hole in the rock face could be naturally occurring, it was actually drilled for a pipeline that is now long gone. There is a stream that runs through a large hole in the rock formation. It is big enough to walk through, but use caution as it may be slippery. With careful exploration, you can even see remnants of the pipe that used to run through it.  

Parking can be a bit tricky near the trailhead. There is room for a few cars just off the highway. There is also a parking lot directly across the highway at Coombs Country Candy, which is the perfect spot to stop for a treat before heading out. You will need to cross the highway from this parking lot, so be careful doing so! Once you get to the trail head directly across the road from Coombs Country Candy, there is a small sign that says “Hole in the Wall”. From there, follow the 1 km trail to get to the hole in the wall. It’s a quick hike, but there are a few steep spots that can be slippery in wet conditions, so ensure you’re wearing appropriate footwear.

The China bowls, sometimes known as the Cumberland Potholes or Perseverance Creek Potholes, feature unique rock formations and pools filled with clear blue water. It’s a great place for a cool dip in the summer, and a beautiful spot to explore year round. 

The trailhead to the China Bowls is about an hour from Sunridge Waterfront Resort. Parking is available, and the hike is approximately 2 km each way. The trail is well maintained and user friendly, but exercise caution once you’re at the bowls, as the rocks can be very slippery. This is not one to be missed!

Book your stay at Sunrise Ridge Waterfront Resort and start planning your adventure today!