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Kettle Valley Railway Steam through the Valley
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By Jo Ann Reynolds Photos by Doug Campbell
As you cruise along on your holiday this summer season take the time to experience the nostalgia of steam at the Kettle Valley Steam Railway. One of BC’s few operational steam railways – the KVSR is truly unique in the Okanagan and is an integral piece of BC Railway history. Originally 325 miles long, the Kettle Valley Railway was built during 1910-1915 providing a much needed transportation link for mineral and fruit shipments to the world.
Said to be one of the most difficult railways ever built, it snaked its way over and around three mountain ranges connecting the area from Midway in the Kootenays to Hope in the Fraser Canyon. A major feature of the KVR (still in use today) was the Trout Creek Bridge —at 619 feet long and 238 feet high, it was the largest steel girder bridge on the KVR and the third largest in North America at the time it was built in 1913. Celebrating its Centennial this year – the bridge continues to inspire awe and to safely transport train passengers, as well as cyclists and hikers across the Trout Creek Canyon.
The star attraction at the railway is the century old steam locomotive – the “3716” also named Spirit of Summerland. This gleaming piece of steel pulls the train on a 90 minute journey through the beauty of Prairie Valley with its lush orchards, beckoning vineyards and pastureland dotted with sheep and horses. A trip onto the Trout Creek Bridge offers breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake and the canyon below. Live music, historical commentary and observation games for kids make regular tours a memorable experience for the entire family.
None of us want to experience a robbery during our holidays but in this case you may want to make an exception! The Kettle Valley Steam Railway offers thrilling Great Train Robbery & BBQ Events – held about every two weeks during summer and fall. The flavour of the old west comes alive as the Garnett Valley Gang dressed in period clothing ride out of the hills and with daring horsemanship ride like the wind to catch the moving train. On board you’ll be entertained with lively music, dance hall girls and “the sheriff”, there to protect you when the Gang boards the train to ask you to hand over your spare change. (He hasn’t made an arrest yet!) All money raised goes to charities throughout the South Okanagan. After the robbery you head back to Prairie Valley Station for a delicious BBQ dinner and a little more music.
Other special event trains include Easter, Mother’s Day and the Summerland Christmas Express. All special event trains are reservation only. It is also recommended that you book ahead for regular tours during the railway’s May to October season. Make today a trip into yesterday at the Kettle Valley Steam Railway! For information on schedule & rates go to www.kettlevalleyrail.org or call toll free 1-877-494-8424.