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Brockville Railway Tunnel

Canada’s first railway tunnel?

The historic tunnel located beneath the city of Brockville Ontario was actually the very first Canadian railway tunnel to be constructed. Construction started in September of 1854 and the Brockville Railway Tunnel saw its first rail traffic on December 31, 1860. It stretches for a distance of 527 meters and passes underneath what is now Brockville City Hall. It was built in 1863 and later remodeled in 1904, originally called Victoria Hall. The tunnel was first used as a way of transportation for the timber trade of Ottawa Valley to Brockville port facilities.

When can I visit Brockville Railway Tunnel?

The tunnel is now open 7 days a week from 9am-9pm. This gives visitors plenty of time to check out this historic site. The city asks kindly that you do not run and to walk your bikes, skateboards, ect. to ensure everyone’s safety.  If you are in the area, it is definitely a spot you want to check out!

Brockville Railway Tunnel Lights

What’s so cool about the first Canadian railway tunnel?

Not only is it rich in history, it also located underground, so there are limestone mineral deposits. Naturally, groundwater will be seeping through the tunnel walls and dripping, so you might want to bring a jacket or poncho. Multi-coloured LEDs synced to music and sounds of a passing train create a very colourful experience.