The Light at the End of the Tunnel

We spent a few days this past weekend with our son and daughter-in-law in Virginia, where they are living. On Saturday the weather was beautiful in the morning - warm and summer-like - so we headed out for a hike together. We were all up for some time outside before the rain was to come in for the afternoon.

When we were researching things to do in the area, we read about a trail that passed through the mountain in a tunnel. The Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail follows the path of an old railroad line, and its centerpiece is the Blue Ridge Tunnel itself. Built in the 1850s under the direction of French engineer Claudius Crozet, it was once one of the longest railroad tunnels in North America. For years, trains passed straight through the mountain there before a newer tunnel took over leaving this one abandoned. After sitting unused for decades, it has now been restored and reopened as a walking trail.

We began our hike from the east trailhead. The gravel path is wide and easy. There were plenty of other people out - families, couples, a few bikes - all just out enjoying the day.

Then we reached the tunnel.  

The tunnel is wet due to constant water dripping from the ceiling and walls. At one point we passed a small waterfall cascading down the side of the tunnel. While the walking path is loose gravel, and puddle-free - for the most part - it was still wet.

 

It stretches about 1.5 kilometers. Visitors are urged to bring flashlights. The tunnel is quite dark with no artificial lighting. The only light you see comes off the flashlights of other hikers and the entrance at the other end of the tunnel - 1.5 kms away. The air temperature inside the tunnel is 10 to 12 degrees Celsius all year long so we were glad that we were wearing our coats.

We made our way through to the other side. Once we reached the west entrance, we stepped back into the daylight, remarking about the change in temperature. After spending a little time on the western side of the tunnel, we turned around and did it all again.

 

We really enjoyed the hike. It was a unique experience and well worth doing - what made it even more special was sharing it with our son and daughter-in-law.

West Tunnel Entrance

Quick Guide: Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail

Location: Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail 

East Trailhead: 215 Afton Depot Lane, Afton VA 22920
West Trailhead: 483 Three Notched Mountain Hwy, Waynesboro VA 22980

Trail Type: Out and back
Distance: About 7.2 km (round trip from the east side to the West Trailhead, including the tunnel
Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat and wide. From the tunnel to the West Trailhead there are some steep inclines.

Tunnel Length: Approximately 1.5 km
Time Needed: 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace from the East Trailhead to the West Trailhead


What to Bring:

• Flashlight or headlamp (essential for the tunnel)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light jacket (it’s cooler inside the tunnel)
• Water

Good to Know:

• The tunnel is very dark—don’t rely on your phone light alone
• The trail can be busy, especially on weekends
• The surface is gravel and generally well-maintained
• It’s a good option for families or anyone looking for an easy walk