Rail trails are an incredible way to explore the natural side of Boundary Country and immerse yourself in a historical experience you’ll not soon forget.
Rail trails are decommissioned railroad tracks that have been converted into recreational trails that can be used for hiking, biking, and exploring. Boundary Country’s rail trail system consists of the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail and the Columbia & Western (C&W) Trail which are a part of the Trans Canada Trail that stretches from coast to coast.
The beauty of the rail trail system in Boundary is that it connects the towns in the region, so you can experience it in myriad ways. The trails run through or near a number of campgrounds if campers are just looking for some fun family exercise!
For those looking for a longer ride, there are a number of half-day rides and day trips that allow travellers to see the diverse beauty of the region. Heck, if ambition is high, adventurers can even plan a multi-day journey, with several accommodation options along the trail, to experience the whole trail in one fell swoop.
Columbia & Western Trail
The C&W section of trail carries riders above and through Christina Lake, where lively, dense forests will fill lungs with fresh mountain air. On this portion of the trail, riders can expect a gentle ride on a decline with sweeping vistas while traversing hand-blasted mountain tunnels and wooden trestle bridges!
Stop in Christina Lake for a coffee or quick dip in the lake to cool off. The C&W then guides adventurers on a path between Christina Lake and Grand Forks that goes over top of the remarkable Cascade Falls and along serene bends of the famed Kettle River. Other stops on the trail include Greenwood and Midway, where Mile Zero is found.
Mile Zero
Mile Zero marks the halfway point between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The Kettle River Museum resides here and is Midway’s original station house. The museum features plenty of railroading history, an authentic Canadian Pacific caboose and a Bunkhouse!
Kettle Valley Rail Trail
On the other side of Mile Zero in Midway lies the start of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. The KVR connects Midway and Rock Creek, while straddling the Kettle Valley River all the way to Westbridge. Dive into the river on one of your rides, bring along a fishing rod, or combine a cycle with a river float for some relaxation after a workout! The KVR connects Boundary to the Okanagan with Beaverdell and Carmi leading into Kelowna’s Myra Canyon.
Whichever Boundary Country trail experience you choose to do will be a fun time to remember – see you on the trails!
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