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Your Guide for Hiking the Blue Ridge Tunnel

Blue Ridge Tunnel



For my birthday, my dad and I decided to do something a little different and take on a hike through the Blue Ridge Tunnel. This trail is about 4.6 miles long, and one of the coolest parts of the hike is that you actually walk through a mile-long tunnel! If you're looking for an outdoor adventure that combines history and a great workout, this hike might be perfect for you. It was a great way to celebrate the day, and the views (as well as the tunnel experience) did not disappoint.

What Should You Wear?

Since this was my first time on the trail, I packed my trusty hiking shoes, thinking they’d be necessary. But to my surprise, you could totally walk this trail in regular walking shoes. Most of the trail is paved, which makes it accessible for all types of footwear. I went in the summer, so casual shorts and a comfortable T-shirt were my go-to outfit.

The most important thing you’ll want to bring, however, is a headlamp. The tunnel is pitch black inside, and having a good light source is a must. Trust me, you’ll be glad you packed it when you’re a mile deep into the tunnel and can’t see your hand in front of your face!



What Should You Bring?

Since the Blue Ridge Tunnel hike is on the longer side, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what I brought along and what I recommend for anyone planning to do this hike:

  • Water: Always a must, especially in an insulated bottle to keep it cool. You’ll need it for the longer stretches.
  •  Lunch: Since the tunnel is the midway point of the hike, packing a lunch to enjoy after making it through is a great idea. There’s nothing better than sitting down and refueling after a hike through history.
  •  Headlamp: I can’t stress this enough—you will need it for the tunnel. The darkness is intense, and the headlamp is essential for navigating through safely.


The History of the Blue Ridge Tunnel

One of the most interesting parts of this hike is the history behind it. The Blue Ridge Tunnel was constructed in the 1850s as part of the Blue Ridge Railroad. This tunnel was actually replaced by another, newer one that the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway used for many years.

The tunnel you walk through today was never fully completed, and it gives you a glimpse into the immense effort and labor that went into constructing it. As you hike, there are plaques with information about the workers who built it and the lives that were impacted during the construction of this engineering marvel. Walking through the tunnel is like stepping back in time, and reading about its history as you go makes the experience even more meaningful.

How Was the Hike?

Overall, I had a blast on this hike! The trail starts with plenty of parking on both ends, so access is easy. Once you start hiking, you’ll quickly find yourself immersed in nature before you even reach the tunnel.

The tunnel itself is truly fascinating. It’s amazing to see how it was constructed, and to think about the men who worked on it more than a century ago. As you walk through, the historical plaques along the way provide great context, making it more than just a walk—it's an educational experience too. The tunnel is about a quarter of the way complete, and you can really appreciate the development and labor as you move along.

I found the tunnel’s cool air to be refreshing after hiking in the summer heat, and it was such a unique aspect of the hike that it set this trail apart from others I’ve done.



Would I Do This Hike Again?

Without a doubt—yes! I would give this hike an 8 out of 10 stars. The combination of the physical challenge, the historical markers, and the sheer coolness of walking through a long, dark tunnel make it a memorable adventure. The only thing I would say is that if you’re someone who prefers more wilderness or panoramic views, this hike is a bit different. But for history buffs and those looking for something off the beaten path, it’s fantastic.

Conclusion

So, have you ever hiked the Blue Ridge Tunnel? If so, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! What did you think of the tunnel and the hike?

And if you haven’t had the chance yet, I highly recommend checking it out. Grab your headlamp, lace up your shoes, and get out there for an unforgettable experience!


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