Benson Creek Falls Regional Park Access Improvements
Benson Creek Falls Regional Park is a popular local and tourism destination in the Nanaimo area. A deep ravine and a challenging crossing of Benson Creek functionally limits connection between the north and south sides of the park and makes it difficult to safely hike to Ammonite Falls (also known as Benson Creek Falls), the main park attraction. The trailhead on Weigles Road provides access to loop trails on the north side of the ravine, and the trailhead on Jameson Road provides trail access to Ammonite Falls from the south.
The RDN is planning improvements to the park that will provide enhanced parking, a safe bridge crossing over Benson Creek, and upgraded trail descents that greatly improve public access to, and mobility within, this regionally significant park.
How you can be involved, find out more or provide feedback?
- Get involved by registering. By registering, you will be kept up-to-date with progress on the Benson Creek Falls Regional Park Access Improvement project through our electronic communications.
- Browse the background documents library located in the sidebar to gain a better understanding of the project.
- Look at our FAQ's to have a better understanding of what, when, why and how this project will improve the Regional Park.
- Share your comments, questions, and stories below with the project team.
- Check the What's New tab for updates as the project moves along!
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Phase 2 - Ammonite Falls Improvements Complete
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The viewing platform and staircase leading to Ammonite Falls is now complete and officially open to the public. The improvements provide visitors with a safer way to access and view the falls.
To learn more see our news release.
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Phase 2 construction begins - September 15, 2021
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Starting on September 15, 2021, construction of a new wooden staircase and viewing platform at Ammonite Falls will begin. Construction will take place throughout the fall, with an anticipated completion date of February 2022.
Ammonite Falls will be closed for the duration of construction. All other areas of Benson Creek Falls Regional Park remain open, however, park visitors can expect temporary closures of trails and access roads throughout construction. Please remain alert to construction activities in and around the park and obey the signs posted on site.
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Phase 1 - Bridge and Trail Improvements Complete
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The bridge and trail improvements within the ravine are complete and the trail is now open for public use. A reminder that sections of the trail are steep and challenging so come prepared.
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Bridge and Access Improvements - Construction Update
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Construction is moving forward on the bridge and trail improvements. Please note that the park remains an active construction site and public access to the ravine and bridge is prohibited. Please obey signs posted on site.
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Weigles parking lot now open!
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this linkThe new parking lot and trailhead on Weigles road is now open. Please continue to watch for construction activity within the park as the bridge and trail improvements are still underway.
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Construction underway
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this linkConstruction of the bridge and trail upgrades is currently underway. For the month of February, park visitors can expect periodic closures of marked trails and access roads. Please be alert to construction activity and obey personnel and signs posted on site.
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Construction Begins - October 13, 2020
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this linkStarting on October 13, 2020, work will begin on the construction of:
- A new hiking bridge over Benson Creek;
- Upgrades to the Park's steep ravine trails; and
- A new 40-stall gravel parking lot on Weigles Road.
The work will occur in phases and will be fully complete in Spring 2021.
Park visitors can expect temporary closures of trails and access roads, including full closure of the ravine trail for the duration of construction. Please remain alert to construction activities in and around the park and obey the signs posted on site.
