Activities & Attractions

Othello Tunnels

The tunnels are open from dawn to dusk daily for the summer season. The Othello Quintette Tunnels, better known as the Othello Tunnels, are one of the most spectacular, man-made attractions in the Lower Mainland. The contrast between the man-made structure against the steep granite cliffs is wild. You and your family will be in awe of this magnificent area. There are five tunnels which were built in 1914 to connect the Koutenay Region with the BC coast by rail. These tunnels were built in a straight line through the granite cliffs. The engineer Andrew McCullough was an avid reader of Shakespearean literature so he named each station of the Coquihalla subdivision after the playwright's famous characters: Lear, Jessica, Portia, Iago and Romeo & Juliet. There are breathtaking viewing opportunities as you walk along the trail, through the tunnels and on the bridges. If you visit the tunnels in late summer, you will likely see spawning salmon leaping from the river as they make their way up the Coquihalla. If you are interested in enjoying a longer walk, you can continue past the last tunnel and walk along the Kettle Valley Trail into Hope. Flashlights are strongly recommended for anyone walking or cycling through the Tunnels. Some are long and dark, and the gravel surface underfoot may be uneven due to erosion caused by dripping water. Features: Picnic tables, fishing, hiking, cycling and toilets. Dogs on leash are allowed. Directions: Traveling East on Highway #1, take exit 170 and turn left at the stop light at end of exit ramp. Turn right at Old Hope-Princeton Highway junction (stop light). Turn left at 6 Ave, then right on Kawkawa Lake Rd and slight left to stay on Kawkawa Lake Rd. Take second right on Othello Rd. and take first right to stay on Othello Rd. You will see the parking area ahead.

Information

(604) 986-9371
env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/coquihalla_cyn/