Fenelon Rail Cars

Site Description #

Explore the Enigmatic Underwater Realm of Fenelon River Rail Cars #

Attention all adventurous divers and history enthusiasts! Discover a hidden gem beneath the waters of Fenelon River – the eerie and fascinating submerged rail cars, a haunting relic from the past. This unique diving site, located near Wychwood Cottage Resort, promises an enthralling and challenging experience for those seeking something out of the ordinary.

Access and Dive Conditions #

To access the site, shore entry is available with parking at Wychwood Cottage Resort. As you venture into the water, you’ll encounter a series of “steps” along the riverbed, with the rail cars resting at a depth of approximately 20 feet. It is crucial to secure permission from the resort owner before diving, respecting the property and the historical significance of the site.

Tannic Waters and Visibility #

As you descend into the tea-colored waters of Fenelon River, you’ll notice that visibility reaches up to 20 feet. The darkness is attributed to the harmless tannic acid present in the water, which absorbs light. Given the dim conditions, a high-powered dive light is an essential piece of equipment for divers to fully appreciate the submerged wonders.

A Historical Enigma Beneath the Depths #

The sight that greets divers is nothing short of mysterious and captivating. Three rail cars, once used for transporting lumber, now lie almost fully intact on the riverbed, surrounded by silt and rust. These cars fell from a train bridge that once spanned the Fenelon River, adding to the site’s historical significance. Divers will be intrigued by the stories etched into these sunken remnants of the past.

Challenges and Unique Features #

The Fenelon River dive site presents divers with unique challenges, making it an ideal choice for experienced adventurers seeking a more demanding underwater experience. The river’s straight drop to depths of up to 70 feet, combined with its darkness, current, and carved rock formations, demands careful navigation and skillful diving. Massive 20-meter long rock cliffs, caves, tunnels, and overhangs add to the site’s allure, creating a truly captivating diving environment.

A Historical Attraction Revisited #

Fenelon Falls was once a renowned mecca for divers, celebrated for its captivating underwater sights, including the submerged rail cars. Divers from all around were drawn to this remarkable destination, captivated by the allure of exploring historical artifacts beneath the waves.

Preserving the Site #

It is essential to note that the Fenelon River dive site is considered a shipping channel, making it off-limits for diving during the summer months. As responsible divers and stewards of maritime heritage, we must respect these restrictions to ensure the preservation of the site and its historical significance.

Uncover the Past and Dive into Fenelon River #

If you are a seasoned diver looking for an extraordinary and challenging underwater experience, Fenelon River Rail Cars is the perfect destination for you. Dive into history and immerse yourself in the enigmatic depths of this unique site.

Note: Always prioritize safety during your dives, follow any site-specific guidelines, and ensure you are well-prepared for the conditions. Happy diving and exploring!

External Links #

• Shotline’s Mark Locates the Rail Cars

Rules to Shore Dive by #

• Pick up after yourselves and others if need be
• Take only pictures, memories, and trash off the bottom
• Many shore dive sites are busiest on weekends so plan ahead
• Remember you’re the ambassador for the sport when approached by onlookers and locals. Paying attention and being polite can lead to other opportunities and locations.
• Have fun and lots of it after all that’s why you are there just like underwater beware of others around you for both positive and negative experiences
• If you’re the guy with the camera, video, or go pro, take a minute to show those outside your group what’s underneath.