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Okanagan Wine Train

Kelowna, BC

Operated by Nagle Tours a long-time motor coach tour operator over CN's Kelowna Sub.
from Kelowna to Armstrong (50 miles) in 1998 and in 2000 33 miles to Vernon.
It ceased operating mid-season in 2001.

(Note: Kelowna Pacific Railway leased line from CN February 6, 2000
to July 5, 2013 when it went into receivership. CN resumed operation).

Train departed Kelowna seasonally Saturdays at 5:00 P.M. for a five-hour excursion northward
through two valleys, along three lakes and past countless farms and orchards.
Meals and wines were served onboard in three themed-music coaches
as well regular coaches used for the scenic ride only.


Chasing the Okanagan Wine Train on a Saturday in August 2000.

Phil Mason

The images show the wine train arriving Vernon (on OKAN ex CP trackage) on a gorgeous August Saturday.
After the power ran around the train, it was spotted beside the "Powerhouse Theatre" for the stage show.
Bob Nagel, his wife and daughter are shown directing the passengers into the theatre.

Long shot of the train sitting at Vernon. KPR 3515 ex CN 3515 M-420 M6071-16 7/1973.
A total of 22 passenger cars of various types were acquired in 1998 from VIA.

South of Vernon, the CN tracks followed the west shore of Kalamalka Lake. In the early 1990's, BC Highway 97
was relocated further inland, and the old two lane highway became Vista Drive. When these images were taken,
there were few homes overlooking Kalamalka Lake, and some impressive look down views of CN and KPR trains
were available from the top of the cliffs. Since then, million dollar homes have been built along the top of the cliffs,
ending public access.

At Kikuli Bay, there is a public boat launch and RV campsite.

Finally, just north of Oyama at the south end of Kalamalka Lake, the train passes a vineyard.
Real estate prices in the north end of the Okanagan valley have seen most vineyards replaced by vacation properties.


All 11 cars sold 2015 to private owner and stored Aspen Crossing.

Club Galley 653, 654, 658, 659.
Cafe Lounge 752.
Sleeper 1128.
Coach 5522, 5603, 5654.
Baggage 9653.
Generator 15475

All ex VIA nee CN

 



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