Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park
Updated November 2011
- Due to a rock slide south of the fifth tunnel and an unstable slope this area is now closed and is no longer safe. Please obey the signs.
- Services are available from April 1 to October 31. The park is closed during the winter months (November to March, yearly) due to unstable conditions, falling rocks and ice.
About This Park
In the early 1900s, the Canadian Pacific Railway decided a route was necessary to link the Kootenay Region with the BC coast by rail. The railway was built over three mountain ranges. In the Coquihalla Gorge - the river cut a 300 foot deep channel of solid granite. A straight line of tunnels were built through it which are known now as the Othello Tunnels. There are spectacular viewing opportunities available on the trail, through the tunnels and on the bridges. This park highlights the Kettle Valley Railway grade that passes through the canyon and 5 tunnels which were built in 1914. It contains a 135 hectare land base. It is a popular tourist attraction for the town of Hope and provides viewing, walking, fishing and picnicking opportunities. The hiking trail links to the historic Hope-Nicola Cattle Trail. The engineer Andrew McCullough was an avid reader of Shakespearean literature, and used characters such as Lear, Jessica, Portia, Iago, Romeo & Juliet to name stations of the Coquihalla subdivision.
Park Size: 159 hectares
Special Notes:
Due to a rock slide south of the fifth tunnel and an unstable slope this area is now closed and is no longer safe. Please obey the signs. (You can no longer exit the fifth tunnel). Hiking/walking is permitted thru the tunnels to tunnel five but cannot exit. Then you may return on the same route to the entrance.
A flashlight is recommended as lighting is dim while walking through the tunnels.
In recent years, the tunnels have become a favourite location for movie producers. Cyclists must dismount from bicycles while passing through the tunnels.
Maps and Brochures
Any maps listed are for information only - they may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.
- Park Map (75 KB PDF)
- Park Brochure (63 KB PDF)
Activities Available at this Park
Cycling
Hiking
Due to a rock slide south of the fifth tunnel and an unstable slope this area is now closed and is no longer safe. Please obey the signs. (You can no longer exit the fifth tunnel). Hiking/walking is permitted thru the tunnels to tunnel five but cannot exit. Then you may return on the same route to the entrance.
Pets on Leash
Facilities Available at this Park
Picnic Areas
Parking fees are no longer being charged. Find out more.
Pit or Flush Toilets
