Abandoned Rails Trail
A gentle historic route tracing the original railway through Rogers Pass.
Route overview
Walk the historic 1885 rail grade between Rogers Pass Centre and the summit monument.
Abandoned Rails follows the former Canadian Pacific rail grade through Rogers Pass. The route links the discovery-centre area with the summit monument and passes the site associated with the 1910 avalanche disaster, combining a straightforward walk with nationally significant railway history.
Trail facts
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- Rogers Pass Summit
- Distance
- 2.4 km return
- Typical duration
- 1 hour
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- Minimal
- Best season
- Summer through autumn when officially open
- Trail type
- Return
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- National park admission normally applies; no separate day-hike permit is normally required.
Safety context
Remain on the official trail and away from active railway infrastructure, steep embankments and avalanche-control areas. Weather can change rapidly at the pass. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Historic infrastructure, exposed weather, highway access, active rail corridor nearby and limited parking.
Highlights
Canada, Glacier National Park, Rogers Pass, railway history, short hike, national historic site, Parks Canada
Why find a buddy
Well suited to history-focused walkers, mixed-ability companions and travellers coordinating a brief Rogers Pass stop.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.