Spiral Tunnels
Hello, trainspotters and photography buffs! If you’re looking for a unique blend of history, engineering marvels, and stunning landscapes, then the Spiral Tunnels in Yoho National Park are calling your name. Grab your camera, hop on board, and let’s take a scenic journey through the twists and turns of this fascinating site.
The History: From Big Hill to Big Thrills 🚂
Back in the late 19th century, the Canadian Pacific Railway faced a monumental challenge: how to traverse the steep grades of the Kicking Horse Pass. The original solution, known as the “Big Hill,” was a 4.5% grade that was as treacherous as it sounds. Trains often derailed, and the hill became infamous for its danger.
Enter J.E. Schwitzer, a railway engineer with a penchant for Swiss ingenuity. Inspired by the spiral tunnels in Switzerland, Schwitzer proposed a similar solution for the Kicking Horse Pass. After 25 years of planning and construction, the Spiral Tunnels were completed in 1909. These tunnels reduced the grade to a much safer 2.2%, allowing trains to navigate the pass with ease and significantly reducing the number of derailments.
The Tunnels: Engineering Marvels 🛤️
The Spiral Tunnels consist of two main tunnels: the Lower Spiral Tunnel in Mt. Ogden and the Upper Spiral Tunnel in Cathedral Mountain. Here’s how they work:
Lower Spiral Tunnel: Trains enter the tunnel, spiral up inside Mt. Ogden for 891 meters (0.6 miles), and emerge 15 meters (50 feet) higher.
Upper Spiral Tunnel: Trains then enter the Upper Spiral Tunnel, spiral up inside Cathedral Mountain for 991 meters (0.6 miles), and emerge 17 meters (56 feet) higher.
This ingenious design allows trains to gain elevation gradually, making the journey much safer and smoother.
Photography Tips: Capturing the Curves 📸
Timing is Everything: Check the train schedules to ensure you’re there when a train is passing through. The sight of a train snaking through the tunnels is a photographer’s dream.
Vantage Points: The best views are from the designated viewpoints along the Trans-Canada Highway. These spots offer unobstructed views of the tunnels and the surrounding landscape.
Zoom In: Use a telephoto lens to capture the intricate details of the trains as they navigate the tunnels.
Golden Hours: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting conditions for capturing the tunnels and the stunning mountain backdrop.
Fun Facts: Did You Know? 🤓
The Spiral Tunnels are still in use today, over a century after their construction.
The tunnels were modeled after a similar system in Switzerland, making them a unique blend of Canadian and Swiss engineering,
The nearby town of Field, BC, offers a visitor center where you can learn more about the history and significance of the tunnels,
Final Thoughts: A Twisty Tale of Triumph 🏞️
So, there you have it – the Spiral Tunnels in all their twisty, turny glory. Whether you’re a history buff, a train enthusiast, or a photography lover, this site offers a unique and captivating experience. Just remember to bring your camera, your sense of adventure, and maybe a snack or two for the journey.
(But honesty, you don’t have to do too much prep - it’s just a stop on the side of the road. You’ll just have to do a bit of research to see what time a train is supposed to pass)
Happy snapping, and may your photos be as timeless as the tunnels themselves!