The last day is a major 54 mile ride with diverse scenery,streams to
ford,the Coquihalla pass and highway, a ride through forest and finally
the Othello-Quintette tunnels into Hope.There are many motels in Hope
so dont worry about getting a room.The most sensible way to return to Vancouver is by Via train.It only
runs on certain days and one must call ahead at least two days to
arrange the flag stop.
It is in this section of the route where we find the nemesis of the
railway operation....the Coquihalla Pass.Subject to frequent and unpredictable
rock and snowslides it is to date... and will probably remain... the one
section wich is closed to the public.But though forced to use the
Trans Mountain Pipeline road at the bottom of the pass one cannot help but
realize the difficulties involved in maintaining a rail line which snaked
along the mountain walls high above us.In fact so precipitous was this section
it is said that the railroad scheduled their passenger service though the pass
at night so as not to frighten the passengers.But what a shame...it would sure
make one hell of a steam excursion.
MAP 