Whistler Trainwreck Trail
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Route Description for Whistler Trainwreck Trail
The Whistler Trainwreck Trail is a popular route in the area due to its short length, easy terrain, and interesting highlights. As a result, the trail can become extremely busy with foot traffic during peak hours and on weekends. Hikers looking to utilize the trail should arrive early in order to secure parking at the trailhead and get ahead of any potential crowds on the trail.
This route is the perfect half-day hike around the Whistler area, especially if you are travelling with family members or simply looking for a short trail packed with highlights. This 4.5 km route sets out along Millar Creek before meeting up with the rushing waters of the Cheakamus River. From here, hikers will pass by the Cheakamus River Waterfalls as they make their way along the forested trail to the Whistler Trainwreck. At this point in the hike, you will be able to explore the remnants of a derailed train from the 1950s and cross over a suspension bridge spanning the river before concluding your hike. The easy terrain and numerous highlights along this route have made the Whistler Trainwreck Trail one of the more popular short hikes around Whistler.
Setting out from the parking lot, pick up the trail at the edge of the trees and follow it southwest until it meets up with the Sea to Sky Highway. Making your way to the other side, continue on the forested trail as it hooks south and crosses over the rail tracks. Continue following the trail west, as it passes by the cascading waters of the Cheakamus River Waterfalls.
Roughly 450 m after the falls, the trail will turn south and head into a more densely forested area, signalling the final approach to the trainwreck. Here, hikers will be able to explore the area and check out the old, derailed train cars that sit immobilized in the forest and serve as memories of a bygone time. Approaching the river to the left, you will also find a suspension bridge that stretches out over the Cheakamus River below. After reaching the end of the Whistler Trainwreck Trail and experiencing the sights, head back along the same route that you came in on to return to the trailhead and your parked car.
Insider Hints for Whistler Trainwreck Trail
- Arrive early for parking and to beat the crowds.
- Bring microspikes or snowshoes if using the trail in wet or snowy conditions.
- Bring a camera for some cool photos of the graffiti-covered rail cars.
Getting to the Whistler Trainwreck Trail Trailhead
To reach the Whistler Trainwreck Trail from Whistler, head south on BC-99 S and make a right turn onto Alpha Lake Road. After 886ft, you will find the trailhead and parking at the edge of the trees on your left.Route Information
When to do:
Year-Round
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Out and back
Whistler Trainwreck Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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