Hope-Nicola Valley Trail Loop

Hope-Nicola Valley Trail Loop in Hope is a solid choice if you want more than just a flat stroll to the famous Othello Tunnels. This 5.6 km loop climbs about 284 m to a high point around 374 m, so it’s a true moderate hike that usually takes around 2 hours. You get the busy, iconic tunnel section plus a quieter forested loop where most tourists never go.

The loop starts with a short, steep climb through the trees before easing into a mix of switchbacks and viewpoints. The upper section has benches and history signs, and on clear days you get great views down into the Coquihalla and Nicola valleys. From there, the trail drops down on steeper, rockier switchbacks to meet the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, then finishes along the old rail bed and through the tunnels, with tight canyon walls and those classic riveted tunnel views.

Right now, reports are mixed and you need to be careful: Coquihalla Canyon Park and the Othello Tunnels have had storm damage closures and some hikers say the tunnels are closed from one side with no clear signage, forcing them to backtrack. Expect heavy crowds and lots of tourists on weekends in the tunnel section, while the Hope-Nicola Valley Trail portion itself is much quieter. Wear good footwear for the rocky descent, bring a light layer for the cool tunnels, and always check the latest BC Parks and local updates for Coquihalla Canyon and the Hope-Nicola Valley Trail Loop before you go so you don’t end up walking all the way in just to turn around.