Tucked along the beautiful waterfront of Brockville, Ontario, lies a hidden marvel: Canada's oldest railway tunnel.
Located in the Thousand Islands region of Eastern Ontario, Brockville’s historic railway tunnel offers visitors a unique glimpse into Canada's early industrial era right along the St. Lawrence River.
Completed in 1860, this engineering feat holds the distinction of being the very first railway tunnel ever built in Canada and remains a proud symbol of the nation’s pre-Confederation industrial heritage.
The Brockville Railway Tunnel was originally constructed for the Brockville and Ottawa Railway and later operated under the Canadian Pacific Railway before the City of Brockville acquired it in 1983.
Stretching from the banks of the St. Lawrence River through to the northern part of the city, the tunnel stands as a testament to early Canadian ingenuity and ambition. It was finished a full 21 years before construction even began on the Canadian Pacific Railway and long before any tunnels were built through the Western Rockies.
Incorporated in 1832, Brockville is one of Canada’s oldest municipalities and an early hub for railway innovation. By 1855, the Grand Trunk Railway had already linked Brockville to Montreal, setting the stage for the city’s role in the country's growing transportation network. At the time, the tunnel project was seen as a controversial undertaking — but today, it is celebrated as a remarkable accomplishment that helped shape Canada’s industrial story.
After decades of use, the tunnel was carefully restored to highlight its unique features and reopen it for public exploration. The revitalized tunnel now features a new paved concrete floor and state-of-the-art, energy-efficient lighting designed both for safety and to showcase the tunnel’s fascinating architecture and geology. Visitors can stroll through half a kilometre of history, passing right under downtown Brockville from the waterfront to the city’s north end.
Adding a new layer of excitement to this historic site, a dynamic and colourful light show and synchronized soundtrack were introduced in 2021. This vibrant experience brings the tunnel to life, blending the echoes of the past with modern-day creativity.
The Brockville Railway Tunnel experience will reopen for the 2025 season in May, with the official date to be announced soon. Admission is free, though donations are welcome to help cover maintenance and operating costs. Donations can be made either onsite or online.
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