Coquihalla River Park is a BC Parks site about 25 kilometres north of Hope on Highway 5. BC Parks says it covers 100 hectares in two narrow strips of land along the Coquihalla River.
The river bars and channels provide spawning opportunities for steelhead and other fish species endemic to the Coquihalla River.
Coquihalla River Park is a simple highway river stop for resting, fishing, viewing, and river-environment appreciation. BC Parks notes there are no day-use facilities because of past flooding events on the Coquihalla River.
The strongest reasons to stop are the river habitat, fall colour, and railway history. Large numbers of vine maples create lovely fall views, and remnants of the old Kettle Valley Railway sit 60 metres above the river on the west slope. Fishing opportunities are available in the park, and wildlife viewing is part of the activity list.
The area was originally established in 1986 as Coquihalla River Recreation Area, part of a series of parks developed along the new highway for rest-stop and recreation opportunities.
Plan around river fishing with the required licence, fall colour viewing, Kettle Valley Railway remnants, wildlife viewing, short signed walks where available, leashed-pet stops, roadway cycling, and brief highway-trip rest breaks.
Do not expect BC Parks day-use facilities. Obey posted signs, keep pets leashed and away from beach areas or buildings, keep bicycles to roadways, and note that e-bikes are not allowed on trails unless specifically authorized for maintenance.
