Othello Tunnels - In the Coquihalla Canyon

For visitors to British Columbia and particularly for those who are travelling the Coquihalla Highway, don't miss a stop at the Othello Tunnels. These tunnels are located in the most rugged section of the Coquihalla Canyon. At a time when there was limited technology, tunnels were created through three solid granite mountain cliffs and bridges built above a canyon where the river rushes three hundred feet below. It is a terrain so rugged as to seem nearly impossible even with what we now know. The wonder of it is breathtaking and is well worth the stop.

This magnificent and unbelievable engineering feat was designed by engineer Andrew McCullough and was completed between 1911 - 1918. Sadly many immigrants lost their lives during the building of these tunnels and trestles which were deemed necessary to gain passage to the coast. Once British Columbia became part of Canada in 1871, it was necessary to link eastern Canada to the Pacific Coast. The mountains of British Columbia were a challenge. The work was done completely by hand with some help from horse drawn scrapers and black powder. Cliff ladders, suspension bridges and ropes assisted the workers in building what, even today, is considered an engineering marvel.

The old CPR Kettle Valley Railway once ran through this magnificent piece of history and through some of the most beautiful scenery there is in the province. The tunnels, also known as the Quintette Tunnels, were named by Andrew McCullough who was an avid fan of Shakespeare. He used the names of Lear, Jessica, Portia, Iagy, Romeo and Juliet to name the stations on the Coquihalla route. The Kettle Valley Railway closed in 1959 following a severe slide in the area. In May of 1986, the tunnels and surrounding area became a provincial recreation area.

After walking through the tunnels and traversing bridges, you can continue following the old railroad bed which links to the historic Hope-Nicola Cattle Trail. Many visitors take their bikes to travel the path left by a railway that is no long available to us. When walking through the tunnels, it is necessary to have a flashlight.

There is overnight camping, a day parking area and picnic tables available. The park is closed between November and March each year because of the possibility of falling rocks and ice.

Unfortunately the pictures I have do not properly show the amazing tunnels and trestles.