Othello Tunnels
Walk through historic railway tunnels carved into granite, offering stunning canyon views and a glimpse into BC's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure parking
Othello Tunnels
Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk through historic railway tunnels carved into granite, offering stunning canyon views and a glimpse into BC's past.
"Absolutely gorgeous, it was amazing how the tunnels turn around to fabulous views."
🔦 Bring a flashlight
Tunnels can be dark and wet; a flashlight or phone light is helpful.
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The path can be uneven in places; comfortable footwear is recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Tunnels
Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park
Walk through six impressive railway tunnels carved into solid granite over a century ago.
+2
Canyon Views & Bridges
Along the Trans Canada Trail
Experience breathtaking views of the rushing Coquihalla River and dramatic canyon walls from scenic bridges.
Family-Friendly Walk
Main Trail
An easy, relatively flat, and stroller-friendly path making it perfect for all ages and abilities.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Seasonal Opening
Arrive Early for Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a flashlight
Tunnels can be dark and wet; a flashlight or phone light is helpful.
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The path can be uneven in places; comfortable footwear is recommended.
💧 Tunnels can be wet
Expect dripping water inside the tunnels, especially after rain.
🐶 Dog-friendly path
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a flashlight
Tunnels can be dark and wet; a flashlight or phone light is helpful.
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The path can be uneven in places; comfortable footwear is recommended.
💧 Tunnels can be wet
Expect dripping water inside the tunnels, especially after rain.
🐶 Dog-friendly path
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners.
📸 Capture the views
The dramatic scenery and historic tunnels make for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Othello Tunnels for their stunning natural beauty and fascinating history, calling it a 'must-do' and 'absolutely gorgeous.' The easy, family-friendly walk through the historic railway tunnels and along the dramatic canyon is a major draw. Some visitors note that parking can be challenging on busy days and wish for more on-site historical information.
"This is a really pretty spot for a walk. There is lots of parking although it gets very busy on weekends. It is dog friendly and there are lots of porta potty’s near the parking lot. And there are garbage cans at and closer to the parking lot (please use them). There are educational signs throughout. The tunnels can be wet and dripping inside if it was raining recently. Flashlights can be helpful although each tunnel isn’t super long. Stay on the path and away from the water. The currents are super strong. If someone has an issue with heights it may be difficult for them in some parts. There are a couple of picnic tables and it would make for a great lunch spot if you brought something to eat. The park is closed from November until Spring. Check the site out for specific dates."
Christina Bjornstad
"Absolutely gorgeous, it was amazing how the tunnels turn around to fabulous views. It's a nice walk towards the entrance and get dark, better to have some form touch or mobile flash would do. The bridges are quite the catch with the view. There are more tunnels and could walk down the way. Definitely a place to visit!"
Praveen Piyaratne
"The nature here is absolutely beautiful, and it’s a very interesting historical place. This is a great destination for anyone who loves the rich history of our province.
I just have a couple of small suggestions:
1. On weekends, it’s really difficult to find parking — there clearly aren’t enough spots, and there are a lot of tourists.
2. There isn’t much historical information available on-site, so I often had to use Google Search to learn more about the place.
Other than that, it’s definitely worth visiting!"
Aleks Zaborsky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Othello Tunnels are located in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, about a 2-hour drive east of Vancouver. Take Highway 1 East to Hope, then Highway 5 North. The entrance is well-marked.
Yes, there is a parking lot near the entrance. However, it fills up quickly on weekends and holidays. Consider arriving early or on a weekday.
Public transportation options directly to the Othello Tunnels are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access the site.
The main trail is relatively flat and wide, making it accessible for strollers and some wheelchairs. However, some sections might be challenging.
Road conditions can vary, especially outside of summer. Always check DriveBC for current highway conditions before you travel, particularly on Highway 5.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Othello Tunnels and Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park is free.
The Othello Tunnels are typically open seasonally from June to October. It's best to check the BC Parks website or local tourism sites for exact dates.
The tunnels usually close for the season around October, with the exact date varying each year.
There are no entrance fees for Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park or the Othello Tunnels.
No, the Othello Tunnels are closed during the winter months, typically from November until Spring, due to weather and maintenance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main walk through the tunnels and back is a short loop, approximately 3-3.5 km round trip, taking about an hour to complete.
You'll see six historic railway tunnels, impressive bridges, and stunning views of the Coquihalla River and canyon.
The trail is generally considered easy and flat, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Some may find parts challenging if they have a fear of heights.
Yes, there are porta-potties available near the parking lot.
Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and cold water. Stay on the designated paths and away from the water's edge.
📸 📸 Photography
The tunnel entrances and exits, the wooden bridges with canyon views, and the dramatic rock faces offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, the tunnels are dark. Bringing a flashlight or using your phone's flash will help illuminate the space for photos.
Morning light can be beautiful filtering into the tunnels, while late afternoon offers dramatic shadows. Consider the season for foliage.
Drone usage is subject to Parks Canada regulations. Check current rules for Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park before flying.
Experiment with long exposures to capture the water's movement and use your flashlight to light up the tunnel walls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids often love the novelty of walking through the dark tunnels and the excitement of the bridges over the rushing river. Educational signs along the way can also add a learning element to the outing. Pro-tip: Pack snacks and drinks, as there are picnic tables available. Ensure children stay close and supervised, especially near the water and on the bridges. Flashlights are a fun addition for the kids to use inside the tunnels.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
+1Consider extending your exploration beyond the main tunnel loop to discover more of the old railway bed. This offers a more immersive nature experience. Remember to check trail conditions and be prepared for varying weather, as mountain environments can change quickly.
📸 Photographers
+1Experiment with different angles and use your flashlight to highlight textures inside the tunnels. The bridges offer excellent opportunities for capturing the vastness of the canyon. Visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays can provide fewer crowds, allowing for more unobstructed shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History of the Othello Tunnels
+2Despite their historical significance and engineering marvel, the Kettle Valley Railway ceased operations in the 1960s. The tunnels and surrounding railway bed were later repurposed as part of the Trans Canada Trail system, allowing hikers and cyclists to explore this unique landscape. The tunnels have also served as a dramatic backdrop for films, adding to their allure.
+1Recent years have seen periods of closure due to flood damage, highlighting the ongoing need for maintenance and preservation efforts. When open, the tunnels offer a tangible connection to British Columbia's railway past, set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.
+2Exploring the Trail System
+1While the most popular route covers the main tunnels, there are opportunities to explore further along the old railway bed. These extensions offer a more rugged experience and a chance to appreciate the sheer scale of the railway construction. Always stay on marked trails to ensure your safety and to protect the natural environment.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be slippery, especially after rain. Bringing a flashlight is highly recommended to navigate the darker sections of the tunnels and to appreciate the rock formations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit