The original CPR line from Field to Lake Louise was a dangerous 4.5 percent grade. The two spiral tunnels were completed in 1909 and this reduced the grade to 2.2 percent. You can imagine the difference this made to safety and efficiency of load hauling. This picture shows a train proceeding through the lower spiral tunnel. It can be seen going into the upper portal and then exiting below. I drew this map in MS paint and hope it gives an idea of the size of this engineering marvel. If you have the opportunity to travel the highway between Lake Louise and Field, look for the turnout so you can see railroad action around the lower tunnel. Well worth the stop. Its like a helix in full scale. ------------------ Robin Maberly and Tayside [This message has been edited by Robin Matthysen (edited 24 December 2000).]
Here is a better picture of CP 4242 coming through the lower spiral tunnel heading west towards Field. The back of the train above is still to go through the tunnel. Photo courtesy of Canadian Pacific ------------------ Robin member #35 Maberly and Tayside
The good old days! Look at all those multimarks ------------------ Alan Curtis. Moderator. Member #12 The perfect combination - BNSF and N Scale! www.alancurtismodels.com Andersley Western Railroad Alan's American Gallery
