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Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park
Welcome
In the Coquihalla Gorge - the river cut a 300 foot deep channel out 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 is a popular tourist attraction for the town of Hope and provides viewing, walking, fishing and picnicking opportunities.
location
Off Highway 5, north of Hope.
- Region: Lower Mainland - Hope
- Driving distance from city centre: Approx. 160 km
- For a regional map of the park's location, click here.
Recreation Opportunities
Hiking:
There is an easy 3.5km round trip walk through Othello Tunnel. The flat trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail.
Day-Use/Picnicking:
There are a few picnic table available, only available from April 1 to November 1.
Viewing Opportunities:
There are spectacular viewing opportunities of the gorge at this park.
Other Recreation:
Biking is only permitted on roadways and not on trail surfaces. Recreationists are advised to dismount before passing through tunnels.
Special notes of interest
- 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.
- The hiking trail links to the historic Hope-Nicola Cattle Trail.
- In recent years, the tunnels have become a favourite location for movie producers.
Additional fees
Click here to view BC Park's General Fee Information website.
- Vehicles $3/day or $1/vehicle for first hour
safety and other important notes
Be sure to read our more general park safety information page.
- A flashlight is recommended as lighting is dim while walking through the tunnels.
Water:
Bring your own drinking water as potable water is not available in the park.
Toilets/Showers:
Pit toilets only located near the parking lot and trailhead.
There are no Shower facilities available.
Wheelchair Accessibility:
The Tunnel Trail is wheelchair accessible with a flat gravel surface; this trail is approximately 3.5km return. There are 3 wheelchair accessible pit toilets.
Nearest Hospital:
Fraser Canyon Hospital
1275 7th Ave.
Hope, BC V0X 1L4
Phone: 604-869-5656
In addition to this information, Project G.O.! recommends reviewing the BC Parks website for Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park for important updates and detailed information before visiting this park.
park facility operator
Gibson Pass Resort Inc.
E-mail: camping@manningpark.com
Phone: (604) 795-6169