The suspense is over at Elk Falls Provincial Park just in time for the May long weekend.
The long-awaited suspension bridge spanning Elk Falls will officially open to the public Saturday, May 9, when the Rotary Club of Campbell River hosts a ribbon-cutting and grand opening in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of Elk Falls Provincial Park.
The grand opening is scheduled for 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the trailhead from the parking lot off Brewster Lake Road.
Environment Minister Mary Polak joined the Rotary Club of Campbell River, Island Coastal Economic Trust and other community partners and BC Hydro today to officially open the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge.
The 60-metre long suspension bridge offers free family fun with unprecedented views of the majestic Elk Falls. If the suspense of crossing is too much to handle, visitors have safe views of the iconic falls from two new viewing platforms; one directly facing Elk Falls and one easily accessible for visitors of all abilities.
Expanded accessible trails around the park better serve hikers and those taking the short stroll from the new, larger parking lot to the falls. New maps can be found throughout the park, highlighting the area’s recreational features.
The Elk Falls Suspension Bridge is the cornerstone of a multi-year project undertaken by the Rotary Club of Campbell River to enhance Elk Falls Provincial Park. The club financed the approximately $740,000 project with help from Community Futures Strathcona, BC Hydro and BC Parks, with a matching grant from Island Coastal Economic Trust.
Rotary is now gifting the bridge and associated facilities to the Province to own and maintain as part of Elk Falls Provincial Park. These park enhancements will increase tourism and economic opportunities in the Campbell River area, as well as increase public safety and recreational activities for park visitors.
Enjoy a walk on the new cantilevered viewing platform with some mist raining down from the spray of Elk Falls. Enjoy the view in person it is even better that the video – see you Saturday.
Posted by Elk Falls Suspension Bridge Project by the Rotary Club of Campbell River on Friday, May 8, 2015
Quick Facts:
- At 64 metres above the Campbell River, Elk Falls Suspension Bridge is the highest pedestrian bridge on Vancouver Island.
- 2015 is the 75th anniversary of Elk Falls Provincial Park.
- Parking is free in all provincial parks making them more accessible to families.
Learn More:
For more information on Elk Falls Provincial Park, visit: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/elk_falls/
