Summerland British Columbia - We all know Summerland is a go-to destination for wine, orchards, and scenery, but the district also has many layers of creativity, quirkiness, and history that are ready to be explored.
 
A piece of the past is the Kettle Valley Steam Railway, the only preserved portion of the historic railway built between 1910 and 1915 as a "Coast to Kootenay" connection.
 
Visit the 10 mile track and soak in the sweeping views between Faulder and Trout Creek across canyons on a trestle bridge, all from a car pulled by a real restored steam locomotive from 1912.
 
It's the ultimate back-in-time experience for a history buff.
 
KVR Railway business manager Tasandra Crozier said that while COVID-19 is a fly in the ointment, it's full steam ahead for the summer at the moment.
 
"We're just waiting and hoping. If all goes as planned, we will be up and running on the May long weekend for our regular tours," Crozier explained.
 
Crozier said they won't be planning any special events or activities just yet until the COVID-19 chips fall where they may, and the train will be riding at half capacity.
 
Until the rides start again, the train itself spends most of its time in the shop, so it is not always available for visitors to take a look at, but the gift shop will be reopening soon, which offers plenty for growing or already grown history enthusiasts to check out and take home.
 
And Crozier said guests are always welcome to call ahead and see if the train is parked outside to take an up-close peek.
 
And ahead of the season, they are launching gift cards available for purchase online, to help boost the non-profit society after a difficult year.
 
"We are hoping to get those up and running within the next week, and of course are always greatly appreciative of any donations," Crozier said.
 
Memberships, which come with perks like a free ride on the train and 15 percent off in the gift shop, are also always available.
 
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