If you love exploring new places by train, this is for you. There’s nothing like a scenic train ride through mountains, meadows, and valleys to make you appreciate British Columbia in all its summer glory. What’s more, many railways have extended summer hours and special events going on, so get ready to book your seat before the season ends! Here are some scenic train rides to enjoy in BC this summer.

Kettle Valley Steam Railway 

The Kettle Valley Steam Railway, takes passengers through the beautiful Okanagan Valley on a 90-minute journey ($33 per adult). Inspired by the bygone era, the railway travels through the picturesque Prairie Valley, full of scenic orchards and vineyards to colour your journey.

The restored steam locomotive rolls onto the Trout Creek Bridge with a breathtaking view of Okanagan Lake and the canyon below, and passengers are also treated to lively music and historical commentary to complete the experience.

Trains will operate at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm from Thursdays to Mondays until September 2nd.

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Great Train Robbery & BBQ – Kettle Valley 

The Kettle Valley Steam Railway also has a special themed ride for lovers of the ‘Old West.’ The experience takes guests on a journey to a time ruled by the notorious ‘Garnet Valley Gang,’ who stop the train to ‘rob’ passengers for local charities. So make sure to bring some change for a good cause!

In exchange, you’ll get to enjoy a decadent BBQ feast at the station at the end of your journey, including chicken, baked beans, and salads.

So mark your calendars and snag a spot for one of the following remaining dates this summer:

  • August 18th, 1:30 pm
  • September 1st, 1:30 pm and 4 pm
  • September 15th, 1:30 pm
  • September 22nd, 1:30 pm

Where: 18404 Bathville Road, Summerland

Fraser Valley Heritage Railway

Journey back in time along the original BC Electric Railway, which dates back to the early days of electricity in 1910. Passengers can go on the popular Heritage Rail Adventure ($25 per person), which starts at the Cloverdale railway station and takes you to Discovery Centre past Honeybee hives, wildflower meadows, and historic sites.

Note that this railway operates at 10 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 3 pm every Saturday this August and September, and at 10 am, 11:30 am, and 1:30 pm on Sunday, August 11th.

Where: Highway 10 and 176A Street, Cloverdale

So there you have it, BC! If you’re looking for a way to experience BC’s natural landscape during the summer, a train ride is the perfect plan to spring into action.

Parts of BC are currently facing significant wildfire activity. If you’d like to help the communities affected, please head to the BC Wildfire Recovery Fund. 

Isabelle Vauclair

Staff Writer, Vancouver – Isabelle is a West Coast native with an appreciation for Vancouver’s natural landscape, patio scene, and community spaces. She loves to discover new hidden gems in her neighbourhood and share them with readers across the city.

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