Quick Facts
Type: Historic timber railway trestle
Height: 44 meters (144 feet)
Length: 187 meters (614 feet)
Built: 1920 (restored 2011)
Trail: Trans Canada Trail / Cowichan Valley Trail
Admission: Free, open 24 hours
Info
Address: 2869 Glen Eagles Rd, Shawnigan Lake
Phone: (250) 746-2620
Parking: North lot (Glen Eagles Rd) or South lot (Renfrew Rd)
Distance to Trestle: 300m from North lot
Directions: From Hwy 1, take Shawnigan Lake Rd west, then Renfrew Rd to Glen Eagles Rd
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kinsol Trestle?
The Kinsol Trestle (also known as the Koksilah River Trestle) is one of the tallest free-standing timber rail trestle structures in the world, spanning the Koksilah River. Now restored, it's part of the Trans Canada Trail and Cowichan Valley Trail network.
How tall is the Kinsol Trestle?
The trestle stands 44 meters (144 feet) high and spans 187 meters (614 feet) across the Koksilah River valley—making it one of the most impressive wooden railway structures in existence.
When was the Kinsol Trestle built?
Construction began in 1911 and was completed in 1920 as part of the Canadian Northern Railway's attempt to connect Victoria to Nootka Sound for timber transport. It served logging trains until 1979.
Can you walk across the Kinsol Trestle?
Yes! The restored trestle deck is open for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. The wide, flat deck is part of the Cowichan Valley Trail and Trans Canada Trail network.
Is the Kinsol Trestle free to visit?
Yes, access is completely free and the site is open 24 hours. There are no admission fees.
How do I get to the Kinsol Trestle?
From Victoria, take Highway 1 north, turn west onto Shawnigan Lake Road, continue to the village of Shawnigan Lake, turn right onto Renfrew Road, and follow it to Glen Eagles Road. The North parking lot is about 550 meters down Glen Eagles Road.
Which parking lot should I use?
The North parking lot (Glen Eagles Road) offers the shortest walk—approximately 300 meters to the trestle. The South parking lot (Renfrew Road) provides a longer trail experience.
Is the Kinsol Trestle wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the trail from the North parking lot is wheelchair accessible. The trestle deck itself is wide and flat, suitable for mobility aids and strollers.
What can I do near the Kinsol Trestle?
The area offers hiking and cycling trails, picnic areas along the Koksilah River, and connections to the larger Cowichan Valley Trail system. Shawnigan Lake is nearby for swimming and paddling.
When is the best time to visit?
The trestle is accessible year-round. Morning and late afternoon offer the best photography light. Spring and fall provide pleasant hiking weather with fewer crowds.
What happened to the original railway?
The Canadian Northern Railway operated logging trains across the trestle until 1979. After decades of deterioration, the CVRD undertook a major restoration project, and the trestle reopened to the public in 2011.
