First part of three videos featuring High Track, the old Canadian Northern grade between Stanley Junction and Kakabeka Falls. This 3.7-mile section along the Kaministiquia River was once part of the mainline from Port Arthur (Thunder Bay) to Winnipeg that was built from 1899 to 1902 (modern CN-Kashabowie Sub). Because of grade issues, it was abandoned in 1911 when the line was re-routed.
This part of High Track, located near the PAD&W bridge over the Kaministiquia, features a very interesting spot known as “The Oaks.” Watch and learn more.
Video of the former railway grade at Stanley, ON. Stanley was a major station on the PAD&W from 1889 to 1899. When Canadian Northern began construction on their line to Winnipeg, it became the junction point between the two lines. However, in 1912, a new route was opened from Twin City (MP 11.8) to Kakabeka which bypassed Stanley. Its importance declined, though it remained a station until 1938 when the PAD&W was abandoned.
Still looking for things to do during the COVID-19 situation? Why not join me for my next live presentation?
On Tuesday, April 21 at 7pm EST I’ll be presenting Rails into the Wilderness: The Port Arthur, Duluth & Western Railway. Hear where the story all starts with in this classic presentation. Learn about the early history of the PAD&W, the struggle to get the line constructed and how it all fell apart so quickly. This talk will feature a number of period and modern photographs.
Video of the former Canadian Northern Railway/CN-Kinghorn (Dorion) Subdivision at Pearl, ON. Features the siding at Pearl, a flooded section of grade and likely the former section house.
Video of the former Canadian Northern Railway/CN-Kinghorn (Dorion) Subdivision between Pearl and Pass Lake, ON. Features a very large rock cut over 100 feet in height.
Video of the former Canadian Northern Railway/CN-Kinghorn (Dorion) Subdivision near Pass Lake, ON. Features the Pass Lake Trestle/Blende River Viaduct, constructed in 1912.
