The Othello tunnels are now open.
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Park Info
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:
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.
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General Visitor Information
Please note: There is no swimming in this park. The beach
area is very rocky and not recommended for use because the river is
ALWAYS UNSAFE to play and swim in or near.
Location
Off Highway # 5, north of Hope
Map / Brochure
Any maps listed are for information only - they may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.
Activities Available At This Park
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| Cycling |
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Bicycles must keep to roadways. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia. Cyclists please dismount and walk through tunnels.
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| Hiking |
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A trail through the Othello Tunnels is an easy 3.5 km round trip. This Trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail and features a flat gravel surface.
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| Pets on Leash |
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Pets are allowed on the hiking trail only and must kept on a leash at all times. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement.Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.
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Facilities Available At This Park
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| Picnic Areas |
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There are a few picnic tables available. 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.
Day-use Area Vehicle Parking Fee:
$1.00 per vehicle / hour to a maximum of $3.00 per vehicle per/day. For information about yearly parking passes, or further information about parking fees,
click here.
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| Pit or Flush Toilets |
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Pit toilets only located near the parking lot and trailhead.
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| Wheelchair Access |
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There are 3 wheelchair accessible pit toilets within the park. The Tunnel Trail is also wheelchair accessible with a flat gravel surface and is approximately 3.5km return.
