Most people zipping along the Coquihalla Highway are unaware of one of its most breathtaking roadside gems: the Othello Tunnels, nestled just northeast of Hope, BC. This remarkable site, carved through solid granite and steeped in rail history, has been closed since 2021, when a devastating atmospheric river severely damaged all five tunnels in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park.
Now, after years of restoration work, the northern part of the park is set to reopen on June 27, giving visitors access to three of the five iconic tunnels. Crews have installed a new north bridge, added ten parking spaces, resurfaced parts of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, and stabilized canyon slopes and rocks to better withstand future extreme weather events.
Repairs are still underway. Work continues on the south bridge and inside the fifth tunnel, with the full reopening of the park expected in 2026. The total restoration is projected to cost $10 million.
History of the Othello Tunnels
Constructed between 1914 and 1916 to connect the Kootenays with the South Coast of British Columbia, the tunnels were considered an engineering marvel of their time, straight through sheer granite cliffs and linked by bridges over the roaring Coquihalla River. At the time, the project cost $300,000 – one of the most expensive railway miles in the world.
The tunnels’ designer, engineer Andrew McCulloch, was a devoted Shakespeare fan who named stations along the railway after characters like Juliet, Romeo, and Lear. The Othello Tunnels became a celebrated destination, drawing sightseers even in the early 1900s. However, persistent rockslides plagued the route until a massive washout in 1959 led to its permanent closure in 1961.
Today, the towering canyon walls, the roar of the river below, and the cool, echoing chambers of the tunnels create a humbling, awe-inspiring experience. The area’s cinematic quality even earned it a spot in pop culture history – the cliff above the second tunnel was the backdrop for a dramatic jump scene in the movie Rambo: First Blood.
With three tunnels now reopened, Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park is once again a must-see stop for travellers, offering a powerful mix of history, natural beauty, and BC pride.
Visitor Checklist for the Othello Tunnels:
🧭 Before You Go
- ✅ Check seasonal access – The tunnels are typically open from April 1 to October 31, but closures can occur due to weather or maintenance.
- ✅ Confirm park status – Visit BC Parks’ official page or Sea to Sky Parks for the latest updates.
- ✅ Arrive early – Parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
- ✅ Pack the essentials – Bring water, snacks, and a small first aid kit.
🔦 What to Bring
- 🔦 Flashlight or headlamp – The tunnels are dark and uneven in places.
- 👟 Sturdy footwear – The trail is mostly flat, but the tunnel floors can be damp and rocky.
- 🧥 Layers – The tunnels are cool even on warm days.
- 📸 Camera or phone – The canyon views and historic tunnels are incredibly photogenic.
🐾 Trail Etiquette & Safety
- 🐶 Dogs must be leashed – Pets are welcome but must be under control at all times.
- 🚯 Pack out what you pack in – There are limited garbage facilities.
- 🚫 No swimming – The Coquihalla River is fast-moving and dangerous.
- 🧭 Stay on marked trails – For your safety and to protect the environment.
🎬 Fun Extras
- 🎥 Rambo fans – Look for the cliff above the second tunnel, featured in First Blood.
- 🌲 Picnic-ready – There are benches and scenic spots near the parking area for a snack break.
Ready to explore the reopened Othello Tunnels?
Plan your visit with confidence using Backroad Mapbooks’ Vancouver Coast and Mountains Mapbook and the BRMB Maps app – your trusted tools for navigating BC’s most scenic routes. Whether you're a history buff, a film fan, or just craving a canyon adventure, make the most of your trip with detailed maps, trail insights, and local tips from BRMB.
📍 Download the app or grab your mapbook before you go – and let the adventure begin.
