Dear Steemit Friends:
The Othello Tunnels are a connection of phased out train tunnels and bridges that cut through the massive granite walls throughout the long Coquihalla River corridor. The tunnels are east of the town of Hope, BC and offers a quick flat 3.5km hike.
During the early 1900's, CPR (Canadian Pacific Railway) planned to connect the south coast of BC with the Kootenays and it was formulated that the best option was a path through the Coquihalla Gorge. As of recent, the route doesn't have rail tracks and was restored as part of the Kettle Valley Railway Trail, a famous cycling trail that follows the former train routes over trestles and through tunnels.
The Coastal Mountain Range has proved a huge obstacle to build a railway on. Walking on the bridges in the Othello Tunnels trails, you begin to realize how hard it must have been. The crazy rock cliffs, the fast rushing water down below, and the seclusion makes it seem hard to believe that any infrastructure could be constructed in such an location, let alone over more than 100-years ago with inadequate engineering tools.
While standing in the current parking lot, one must follow the signs along the spacious trail near the Coquihalla River. The previous railroad bed is level and an easy stroll for families of all ages. Quickly ahead, the first tunnel can be seen, as you follow the trail into the shadowy tunnel. The trail for a short time exits the tunnel before entering tunnel 2.
Once you leave tunnel 2, the trail traverses a bridge where the Coquihalla River rages along the rocky canyon beneath. At that point you will find yourself walking through tunnel 3 to an additional bridge with views of the canyon. At last walking through tunnel 4, the Othello Tunnels trail unexpectedly ends, even though the route continues going all the way to the township of Hope. This was the point of the trail where we turned around and made the walk back to the parking lot.
Best time of year to visit the Othello Tunnels would be late spring to midsummer as the temperatures are warm and dry.
I would love to hear your questions and comments regarding my post of the Othello Tunnels, please comment below.