Adventure Awaits on the Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail
Hidden in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Waynesboro, Virginia, the Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail is like stepping into a real-life adventure. Starting from the West Trailhead, this trail takes you through forests, up hills, and straight into a long, dark tunnel carved right into the mountain.
This tunnel isn’t just any tunnel—it’s over 170 years old! It was built by hand way back in the 1850s using simple tools and hard work. Workers, including Irish immigrants and enslaved African Americans, spent years digging through the rock to make it happen. When it was finished, it was the longest train tunnel in North America.
Now, instead of trains, people walk, bike, or run through it. The tunnel is almost a mile long and completely dark inside, so bringing a flashlight or headlamp is a must. As soon as you enter, the air gets cooler and damp, and your footsteps echo around you. If you look closely, you might even see tiny bats on the ceiling or salamanders on the path.
The trail from the West side is approximately 2.25 miles one way or 4.5 miles if you go back and forth. It’s a little uphill, but not too hard. Along the way, you’ll see signs that tell cool facts about how the tunnel was built and the people who made it happen. It’s like a hike and a history lesson all in one.
This trail is ideal for families, kids, and anyone looking to explore something new. Dogs are welcome, too! Please wear comfortable shoes, bring a flashlight, and consider arriving early, as parking is limited. After the hike, there are nearby places to grab a snack or explore other parks and nature spots.
The Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail is a fun, spooky, and exciting way to get outside, learn some history, and have an adventure in the mountains.
483 Three Notched Mountain Hwy, Waynesboro VA 22980