The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is coordinating with Recreation Sites and Trails BC to complete rock scaling along the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail above Naramata, between Smethurst and Glenfir parking lots, including closing the Little Tunnel.

The popular trail was kept open this weekend, including today (Sunday, March 21) but will be closed to the public until Friday, March 25.

Scaling locations have been identified by a professional geotechnical engineer and the project will be done using excavators and rope scaling technicians. This will result in the closure of the trail while crews are working in order to maintain worker and public safety. Rock scaling is the removal of loose rock from slopes in proximity to the trail and gathering areas.

The trail is temporarily open for public use throughout Saturday, March 20 and Sunday, March 21. Please respect all crew, barriers, equipment and posted signage for your personal safety and the safety of the workers.

the Smethurst Parking Lot, you can reach the little tunnel on foot, or by cycling.

It is a 4.4 km walk from the Smethurst parking lot to the tunnel, and the path is straight and even. The walk to the tunnel takes about an hour and 30 minutes (if you don’t take the detour to see the rock ovens).

Kettle Valley Railway History

The Kettle Valley Railway was one of the most remarkable sections of railway ever built in North America. It stretched from Midway to Hope, via Penticton. The route was carved out of the most rugged terrain including through Little Tunnel in Naramata.

Although the trains have stopped running, you can still explore the old routes, and see the stunning views for yourself. The rails have been lifted and turned into a linear park with flat trails suitable for hiking and biking.

The railway line into Penticton was completed in 1915, and the first train arrived on May 30, 1915. The line was not in full operation until after World War 1.

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