Whistler Trainwreck Trail

Difficulty
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Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1-1.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
4.5 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
78 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Whistler Trainwreck Trail

Time-travel back to the 1950s along the Whistler Trainwreck Trail as you explore the remnants of a de-railed boxcar from that era. Hike through the forest to reach the Cheakamus River, where you’ll experience the cascading water of the Cheakamus River Waterfalls, before making your way to the graffitied rail cars hidden in the forest. This short route has several unique highlights, so pack your camera and head out on this well-trafficked trail near Whistler.

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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 270 m, 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

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Whistler Trainwreck Trail Reviews

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