Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Day Trip to Othello Tunnels {Hope, B.C.}

If you are looking for a change in scenery, a great day trip from the Lower Mainland is heading out to Hope, B.C. to explore Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park more commonly known as Othello Tunnels. The tunnels were designed by Andrew McCulloch and constructed in 1914 as part of the Kettle Valley Railway. When do you ever get the chance to walk through granite of this magnitude–such a unique experience!


It took approximately 1-1 1/2 hours to get to the parking lot from Surrey. We decided to do the 20 minute walk to the end of the tunnels and head back on the same route. There is a longer loop that you can take but we wanted to keep it light and fun for the kids–and besides it was fun to go through the tunnels again!

We arrived around 9:30 AM and I would recommend going this early to avoid all of the day camps and tourist buses. We spent some time down at the beach as this sort of exploring is a highlight for our kids.



There are five tunnels (although it feels like four) and they are very dark inside. We did not bring headlamps or flashlights but it is recommended. You are allowed to bike the trail but must dismount through the tunnels as it's difficult to see others around you.



The entire walk is incredibly beautiful; from the granite walls to the Coquihalla River to gorgeous greenery, every view is a good one. I loved walking over the bridges and didn't feel too nervous although we did make sure that someone was holding Nya's hand most of the time.




Several movies have been filmed here and I can see why – such a cool and unique feeling traveling through the dark granite walls.





{Apparently we like to hold hands.  Nya enjoys it and Koen needs it to stay focused and on the trail.}

I highly recommend checking out the Othello Tunnels. You can also make a day of it by visiting Hope Slide and Bridal Veils Falls. We actually continued on to Manning Park where we did the Paintbrush Trail, 20 Minute Lake Trail and picnicked at Lightning Lake–this definitely makes for a longer day but a beautiful one.

{Paintbrush Trail, Manning Park}

To get to Othello Tunnels, take exit #183 off of the Coquihalla Hwy onto Othello Road. You'll head back towards Hope and just follow the signs to Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park–about five minutes from the highway.

Have you been? 

Love,
Louise

Pin here for later:
Othello Tunnels in Hope, B.C. is a great day trip from the Lower Mainland. Take a short hike, explore the tunnels and the river.



5 comments:

  1. Looks like another interesting place - will have to add it to my list!

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  2. It looks so pretty there! How long did it take you to drive there?

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    1. 1 hour and 15 minutes from Surrey!

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  3. I love Othello! :)

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