Hope, BC – BC Parks has announced the much-anticipated reopening of Coquihalla Canyon Park, home to the historic Othello Tunnels. The park, which suffered extensive damage during the November 2021 atmospheric river event, is now ready to welcome visitors once again.
The Othello Tunnels, a significant feature of the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) Trail, are accessible from the main parking lot, located off Highway 5, just north of Hope. Visitors can now explore the KVR trail up to Tunnel 2, where the natural beauty and historic engineering marvels await.
The atmospheric river event in 2021 caused severe damage throughout the park, including access roads, trails, tunnels, and bridges. Restoration efforts have been ongoing, with significant repairs completed to make the park safe for visitors. However, the KVR Trail between Tunnel 2 and the Hope Nicola Trail remains closed to allow for further rock work and a bridge replacement.
BC Parks encourages visitors to plan their trips and adhere to any posted warnings or trail closures as work continues in the area. The reopening of Coquihalla Canyon Park marks a significant milestone in the region’s recovery and offers a unique opportunity to revisit one of British Columbia’s iconic outdoor destinations.