Whistler Train Wreck

The basics

After the train derailed in 1956, a local logging company moved the boxcars to their current location. The wreck comprises a total of seven boxcars, stretched over around 1,300 feet (400 meters). The trail is easy enough to tackle on your own, though there are numerous hiking and mountain bike trails in the area, which can be confusing. Guided hiking tours to the wreck are also available and take the guesswork out of route-finding.

Things to know before you go

• Be very careful if entering the boxcars, as they are not structurally sound.
• Dogs are permitted on the trail but must be kept on a leash at all times.
• There are bears in the area; carrying bear spray is a good idea.
• There are no toilets along the trail or at the trailhead. The closest toilets are at Bayly Park, across the road and up a hill from the trailhead.

How to get there

Whistler Train Wreck is located in the Cheakamus Crossing neighborhood, around 5 miles (8 kilometers) south of Whistler. Parking is available at the trailhead, on Jane Lakes Road. You can also take the BC Transit 10 and 20 buses to the HI Whistler hostel and walk down the hill through Bayly Park.

When to get there

Whistler Train Wreck can be visited year-round. Summer is the most popular time to hike to the wreck, so plan to arrive early for a parking spot. In the winter, snowshoes or microspikes may be necessary if there is snow and ice on the ground. Be sure to leave yourself enough time to explore the different boxcars; the graffiti on the boxcars changes frequently.

Extend the hike to a waterfall

If you have a bit more time, you can extend your hike along the Cheakamus River by crossing back over the suspension bridge and following the riverside Trash Trail to a canyon and later a waterfall. To return, retrace your steps, then take the Sea to Sky Trail back to the parking lot.