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Photo by Kim Elsasser
KVR
Kettle Valley Train Robbery
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Photo by Kim Elsasser mpa
Train Trestle
The Kettle Valley Steam Train crossing the trestle bridge in Summerland.
Every year close to 30,000 visitors from around the world ride Summerland’s Kettle Valley Steam Railway. “They’re part of the sheer number of people coming into the valley bringing a spin off effect to the local wineries, fruit stands and other businesses,” says Tracey Slattery, KVSR marketing manager. “We have become a #1 tourist attraction in the area.”
The Kettle Valley Steam Railway is unique. It is the only preserved section of this historic railway which was built during 1910-1915 to bring Okanagan fruit to world markets, transport families and create employment. Whether you are in a vintage passenger coach or open air car, the restored 1912 Steam Locomotive, the “3716”, will treat visitors to lush orchards and vineyards. The highlight of the trip is a breathtaking view of lake and land from Trout Creek Trestle Bridge 238 feet above the canyon floor. The bridge was the highest on the KVR and third largest of its kind in North America at the time it was built in 1913.
Normal train rides are 90 minutes long and cover 11 miles to the Trout Creek Trestle, then return. This is also true for the “Special Event” trains that run on Easter, Mother’s Day, Remembrance Day and Christmas and special charters.
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Photos by Kim Elsasser mpa
Garnett Valley Gang
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Wanted Garnett Valley Gang
Get Robbed for Charity
The immensely popular Garnett Gang Train Robbery ride is longer at 120 minutes and covers just a little more than 13 miles. “Normally every event sells out eight weeks before the actual day,” says marketing manager Tracy. “It’s all volunteer-based and everyone plays specific roles from the sheriff to dance hall girls, cowboys and robbers.”
The Garnett Valley Gang consists of over 30 volunteers, bringing the Wild West alive as they ride out of hills, guns firing, to board the train and “hold up” passengers for local charities. Costumed in the dress code of the era, the riders thrill with their skills and antics during the robbery. Meanwhile, passengers are entertained on board the train by the dance hall girls and lawmen.
Taking place throughout the summer and fall, Garnett Gang Train Robbery also features a delicious barbecue dinner.
All loose change that has been “robbed” from the passengers is donated back to local charities that include but are not limited to: Cops for Kids, South Okanagan Therapeutic Riding, South Okanagan Silver Spurs 4H, Easter Seal Camp, Arion Therapeutic Riding, 4H Stock Show, Agur Lake Camp, CHBC Good News Bear and the Summerland School Lunch Program. The Garnett Valley Gang has donated many thousands of dollars since it was formed in 1996.
How You Can Help
Besides enjoying the enthralling steam train experience, there are ways you can help. The Kettle Valley Steam Railway is a non-profit historical society with no funding from local or federal governments. One hundred per cent of the proceeds go back into keeping the history of the Kettle Valley Railway alive. “We are always looking for volunteers, even if you can spend a week or month, everything is a help,” says Tracey.
Donations can be made to preserve the heritage railway by sending them to Kettle Valley Steam Railway, 18404 Bathhill Road, P.O. Box 1288, Summerland, BC, VOH 1Z0.
Visit kettlevalleyrail.org or call 1.877.494.8424 for schedules and reservations.