Why The Adra Tunnel Matters
The significance of the Adra Tunnel extends far beyond its 1,600 feet. It represents:
Connection: Once reopened, it will facilitate a 90-minute e-bike ride from Penticton to Kelowna, bridging communities like never before.
Heritage: An engineering feat from 109 years ago, it preserves the vision, labor, and ingenuity of past generations.
Trail Network: It strengthens the KVR's reputation as a world-class network of hiking and biking trails.
Destination: With local architects working on renderings, it's poised to become a destination like the Myra Canyon.
While we've made significant progress, there's still work to be done, and we need additional funds. We're actively fundraising to secure the remaining $300,000 needed to complete the structural work. These funds will support lighting, security measures, and visitor infrastructure.
About WoodWackers 2.0
For over 40 years, the Adra Tunnel, a century-old engineering marvel, was closed to the public. The original Woodwackers, a community group from Naramata BC, made efforts to reopen it as part of their contributions to the KVR trail.
In 2021, a diverse community network spanning generations and industries united to continue the Woodwackers' work. We are Woodwackers 2.0, ranging from late 80s to 20s, dedicated to opening trail access and unlocking the potential buried beneath 2000 cubic feet of debris.
We believe in our trail network's value, fostering a healthy community and unlocking tourism, recreation, and economic prosperity for the Okanagan.
Despite limited public funds, we've raised over $1,000,000 through generous donations and volunteer efforts, advancing feasibility and engineering studies. With RDOS, Rec Sites and Trails BC, and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)’s Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program Funding, we're now working to reopen the Adra Tunnel.
Join us in making the Adra Tunnel a prime Okanagan destination. It's not about who we are, but what we stand for and what we're achieving.
The Original Woodwackers
Photo Taken July 19, 2006 by Naramata Photographer: Lone Jones
Photo Taken April, 2024 after a recent tour of the tunnel.