Back in 2021, the Othello Tunnels were damaged by large volumes of water that swept through Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park. Since then, the tunnels have been closed to the public.
More than three years later, you’ll be able to enjoy the Othello Tunnels once again as the park prepares for a reopening. But only in phases, as the full reopening will be coming later.
THE OTHELLO TUNNELS
The Othello Tunnels are a straight line of tunnels that pass over the Coquihalla River and through granite. They were originally a series of train tunnels and bridges that connected the Kootenay Region with the British Columbian coast through the Coquihalla Gorge.
These tunnels are no longer used, but they serve as spectacular viewing areas throughout Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park. Due to atmospheric river floods, they have been inaccessible for the past three years as crews have worked hard to reconstruct the damaged sites.
All five of the Othello Tunnels were damaged in the floods, as well as more than 30 sites in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park.
They are now being reopened in phases to allow for sightseers to enjoy the trails while repairs continue.
THREE OF FIVE
BC Parks wrote on Wednesday, June 18 that “the northern portion of Coquihalla Canyon Park will re-open on June 27, so people can visit three of the five historic Othello Tunnels! Infrastructure is being rebuilt to better withstand the impacts of severe weather due to climate change.”
Restoring such a site is a complex and time-consuming process, so the park is “being repaired in phases.” In the most recent phase, a new north bridge was installed, and slopes and rocks were stabilized. 10 parking stalls were also added.
Coquihalla Canyon Park’s first phase of reopening was in mid-July 2024. The park is slated to reopen entirely by spring 2026.
The park is located off Highway 5, north of Hope. Head on over to the Othello Tunnels on June 27 to get those amazing photo-ops, and be sure to keep an eye out for the park’s full reopening!
