The Spiral Tunnels is a key location to research the development of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Here, you can see the rugged mountain terrain threatening westward expansion and how engineering innovation prevailed.
A pair of loops were created by tunnelling deep into the valley walls, allowing the trains to scale mountains at a 2.2% grade.
From viewpoints on Yoho Valley Road and the Trans-Canada Highway, you can watch the 25-30 passing trains daily and witness how this development still contributes to Canada’s connection.
Photo and video: Vlad Umnov