Provincial Notice of Decommissioning
On February 6, 2026, the Ministry of Environment and Parks announced that it will begin decommissioning a 67-kilometre section of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail in the region near Princeton that has been closed since heavy rain and flooding in November 2021 caused extensive damage to the trail infrastructure.
According to the official press release:
- The trail section between Princeton and the Coquihalla Highway has suffered serious washouts, failed culverts, damaged trestles, and changes in watercourses since the 2021 atmospheric river event.
- Repair and long-term maintenance costs were estimated at roughly $60 million, but infrastructure complexities and remote terrain factored into the decision to decommission rather than restore.
- The decommissioning process is expected to begin in spring 2026 and take up to two to three years.
- The Province notes that an alternative route on existing local roads is available so trail users can continue to access other parts of the larger Trans-Canada Trail network.
This decision was made without prior direct consultation with local communities — despite longstanding expectations for engagement on the trail’s future.
Click on the links below for documents and information in response to the KVR Deactivation Plans!
ATVBC Calls for Pause and Transparency on Proposed Kettle Valley Rail Trail Deactivation
February 17th, 2026 British Columbia — The Quad Riders ATV Association of BC (ATVBC) is calling for an immediate pause and full public transparency following the Province’s announcement to permanently deactivate a 67-kilometre section of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVRT) between Princeton and the Coldwater River. – see full media statement here…
ATVBC has responded to the Ministry staff with our concerns: Read the letter to Minister Scott here
Along with ATVBC efforts, a growing list of groups are sending their concerns along to the Ministry. Here are a few of note:
ATVBC is calling on the Province to follow their own strategic plan: A Strategic Approach for Managing Rail Trails – RSTBC