Pilot section of Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail in Enderby. (Photo credit: RDNO)

By Pete McIntyre

Armstrong to Sicamous

Milestone for Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail: Pilot section completed

Dec 6, 2023 | 1:55 PM

The first section of the Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail is now open for public use.

Construction recently wrapped-up on the Enderby-Splatsin pilot section of the project.

“This two-kilometre stretch of trail marks the first fully constructed phase of the project, bringing the vision of this remarkable recreational pathway closer to reality,” a news release from the Regional District of North Okanagan said.

The RDNO, along with the Columbia Shuswap Regional District and Splatsin te Secwépemc are the key partners in the project to construct a 50-kilometre, non-motorized greenway trail for walking and cycling along the former rail corridor between Armstrong and Sicamous.

“The pilot trail section will act as an example for future sections of the planned regional trail, and will serve as a standalone link between Enderby and Splatsin. Now completed, the trail will better connect the two communities and provide residents with a multi-use pathway that both preserves and showcases the region’s natural beauty,” the news release stated.

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While the test section is now open to the public, a grand opening will be held in the spring of 2024.

Funding for the pilot section came from various sources including $367,249 from the Canadian government, and $91,812 from the B.C. government. The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association also secured a $250,000 grant from B.C.’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.

John Aldag, a B.C. MP who spoke on behalf of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Minister Sean Fraser, called the completion of the pilot section “a significant milestone in uniting communities.”

“Through collaboration with the Splatsin te Secwépemc and local governments, we are constructing a safe, modern rail trail that fosters community well-being, strengthens economies, and encourages active lifestyles for generations to come — all while preserving the rich heritage and cultural values within Secwépemc territory,” Aldag added.

Anne Kang, minister of municipal affairs, said the rail trail creates an opportunity for families to enjoy the region’s beautiful landscape from a fresh viewpoint.

“Our government continues to invest in projects that have positive impacts for community members and visitors. This newly completed section of trail connects people with the past, showcases the environment, and supports a healthy lifestyle option for people of all ages,” Kang remarked.

“We are grateful to the provincial and federal governments for contributing to the quality of life for residents and visitors through an investment in the Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail. Their generous grants helped us make this project a reality,” Shirley Fowler, Chair of the RDNO board of directors, said.

For more information on the rail trail, visit www.shuswapnorthokanaganrailtrail.ca.