RDOS completes 2026 improvements at historic Adra Tunnel
New trail surfaces, parking improvements and visitor amenities follow the landmark's May 2025 reopening.
Visitor amenities at Adra Tunnel following the completion of trail and infrastructure improvements in May 2026.
Photo credit: Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen
NARAMATA — The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) has completed a series of trail and visitor-facility improvements at the historic Adra Tunnel, building on the restoration that reopened the Kettle Valley Rail Trail landmark to the public in May 2025.
The work, completed in May 2026, included trail resurfacing and grading, improvements to parking areas, and the installation of benches, picnic tables, bicycle racks, garbage cans, split-rail fencing, wayfinding signs and a pit toilet.
The upgrades are intended to improve safety, public access and the long-term use of the tunnel and surrounding trail network.
The RDOS marked the completed improvements with a recognition event on September 23, bringing together representatives of the regional district, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, Trans Canada Trail, the Woodwackers 2.0 volunteer group and local elected officials.
Participants toured the tunnel and reviewed the restoration and infrastructure work. A plaque installed at the trailhead recognizes Woodwackers 2.0 volunteers, whose advocacy, fundraising and restoration efforts helped return the tunnel to public use.
"The success of this project demonstrates what can be achieved when volunteers, community organizations, funding partners, and local government work together toward a shared vision," said Mark Koch, RDOS managing director of community and environmental services, in an October 8 announcement.
The approximately 485-metre tunnel, constructed as part of the historic Kettle Valley Railway, follows a curved route through the mountains above Naramata. It was closed to public access for decades before restoration work allowed it to reopen in May 2025.
The restoration involved community volunteers and several organizations, including Woodwackers 2.0, Trans Canada Trail, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, Recreation Sites and Trails BC and the RDOS.
Regional district board records show that directors accepted $271,893.83 from the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association in March 2025 to support trail improvements and amenities at Adra Tunnel.
Although the tunnel and its immediate surroundings are open to visitors, separate maintenance work on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail near Robinson Creek may affect access from the Glenfir direction.
That project involves replacing a failed culvert with a bridge and restoring the creek crossing. The RDOS has advised that construction-related restrictions and detours between Glenfir and Adra Tunnel could remain in place through late fall 2026. Cyclists and hikers can use a designated bypass around the work area, while visitors can also approach the tunnel from the Smethurst staging area.
The tunnel itself is designated for non-motorized use. Visitors should follow posted trail signs and be prepared for changing surface conditions, potential falling rock and debris, and limited communications coverage.
The RDOS has also previously implemented seasonal closures for safety inspections and provincial permit requirements. The most recent published seasonal closure began in November 2025; a corresponding closure date for 2026 has not been announced.
The regional district confirmed in its October 8 announcement that the tunnel remains open for public use.
Nine new outdoor pickleball courts opened at Glenmore Recreation Park on Oct. 8, expanding public recreation facilities in north Kelowna as construction continues on other parts of the park.