Blue Ridge Tunnel
Walk through a mile-long, pitch-dark historic railroad tunnel, once the longest in North America. A unique adventure!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Blue Ridge Tunnel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk through a mile-long, pitch-dark historic railroad tunnel, once the longest in North America. A unique adventure!
"This trail was such a pleasant surprise! The path is wide, well-maintained, and almost completely flat."
🔦 Bring a Headlamp/Flashlight
Essential for navigating the pitch-dark tunnel. Phone lights are weak; bring a dedicated light source!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The gravel path can be damp and uneven. Good walking shoes are recommended for comfort and stability.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Tunnel
Afton Mountain
Walk through a nearly mile-long, pitch-dark historic railroad tunnel, once the longest in North America.
Stroller-Friendly Path
East Trailhead
An ADA-accessible, flat, and wide gravel path makes this hike perfect for families with strollers and young children.
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Cool Temperatures Year-Round
Inside the Tunnel
Experience a consistent, cool temperature of around 50°F (10°C) inside the tunnel, offering a refreshing escape.
Echoes and Atmosphere
Inside the Tunnel
Enjoy the unique acoustics and eerie atmosphere of the dark tunnel, perfect for creating memorable experiences.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Forget Your Light Source!
+7Choose Your Entrance Wisely
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a Headlamp/Flashlight
Essential for navigating the pitch-dark tunnel. Phone lights are weak; bring a dedicated light source!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The gravel path can be damp and uneven. Good walking shoes are recommended for comfort and stability.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Especially important for longer hikes or on sunny days before entering the tunnel.
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Fun
The East Trailhead offers an ADA-accessible, flat path perfect for strollers and kids.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a Headlamp/Flashlight
Essential for navigating the pitch-dark tunnel. Phone lights are weak; bring a dedicated light source!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The gravel path can be damp and uneven. Good walking shoes are recommended for comfort and stability.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Especially important for longer hikes or on sunny days before entering the tunnel.
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Fun
The East Trailhead offers an ADA-accessible, flat path perfect for strollers and kids.
🦇 Look for Bats!
Keep an eye out for bats on the tunnel walls, a cool natural encounter for visitors.
📸 Capture the Darkness
Use a good flashlight for photos; phone cameras struggle in the deep dark.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Blue Ridge Tunnel's unique and historic atmosphere, calling it a must-see Virginia attraction. The accessible, flat trail, especially from the East entrance, is perfect for families and strollers. While the complete darkness requires essential lighting, the cool temperatures and historical significance make it a memorable adventure for all. +1
"This trail was such a pleasant surprise! The path is wide, well-maintained, and almost completely flat, which made it perfect for walking with kids. My little ones actually preferred this side over the west entrance because it felt easier and less of a climb. On sunny days, much of the trail is in full sun before you reach the tunnel, so sunscreen, hats, and water are a must. Once you step inside the tunnel, the temperature drops and it becomes dark and cool, which was exciting for the kids—it felt like an adventure.
The trail is stroller-friendly and not too long, making it a great choice for families with younger children or anyone looking for an easier walk. Parking at the east trailhead was straightforward, and the whole area felt safe and welcoming. If you’re visiting with kids, I definitely recommend starting here."
Theresa N.
"We heard about this from a local and decided to check it out since it was so close to where we were staying. But ... since this hadn't been in our plans (nor did we even know about it), we didn't have a flashlight or headlamp. So, we only walked part of the tunnel and then came back out. To be honest though, the trail leading up to it was plenty exciting for us because of all the local flora we doing growing wild there. So many medicinal plants!!! The whole this was very scenic and fairly easy to traverse, so this seems like a trail for almost everyone.
We also got lucky and ran into one of the rangers who keeps this site up and running, so we got some great history about the trail from him.
Overall a great experience and one you should definitely do if you're in the area. Just make sure you bring a headlamp or flashlight."
Shanah Bell
"Peaceful walk on dark. The tunnel is great. ZEasy walking trail.
Just be aware it's fully dark and impossible to walk without a flash light. Bring bigger lights if you need cool photos."
Sud U
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Blue Ridge Tunnel is accessible via two main trailheads: the East Trailhead (off Route 250 near Afton, VA) and the West Trailhead. The East Trailhead is often recommended for families due to its stroller-friendly path.
Yes, both the East and West trailheads typically have parking available. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Yes, biking is a popular way to experience the Blue Ridge Tunnel, making the journey quicker and more enjoyable for some visitors.
The trail from the East Trailhead is ADA accessible, featuring a flat, wide gravel path that is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
The Blue Ridge Tunnel is located approximately 20-40 minutes from Charlottesville, making it a convenient day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Blue Ridge Tunnel and its trails is generally free. There are no admission fees required to enter.
The Blue Ridge Tunnel is an outdoor attraction and is typically accessible during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours, but it's best to visit during safe daylight conditions.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Blue Ridge Tunnel. It is a free public access trail.
While technically possible, visiting the Blue Ridge Tunnel at night is not recommended due to the complete darkness and potential safety hazards. Always prioritize safety and visit during daylight hours.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions, but visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the historic site and nature. Dogs are typically allowed on leash.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike through the Blue Ridge Tunnel is approximately 0.8 to 1 mile one way, making the round trip about 1.6 to 2 miles from the East Trailhead. Some sources mention up to 2.25 miles one way.
The temperature inside the Blue Ridge Tunnel remains consistently cool, around 50°F (10°C) year-round, regardless of the outside weather.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, as the path is gravel and can be damp. Layers are advisable as the tunnel is cool, but the approach can be sunny.
Yes, porta-potties are available at both the West and East parking lots for visitor convenience.
Some local legends and online discussions suggest the Blue Ridge Tunnel may be haunted, with tales of lingering spirits from its construction era. +2
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Bring a powerful flashlight or headlamp to illuminate your subject and the tunnel walls. Phone cameras struggle in the extreme darkness, so a dedicated light source is crucial for good shots.
Yes, the surrounding landscape leading up to the tunnel offers scenic views. The approach from the East Trailhead can be quite picturesque on sunny days. +1
Experiment with long exposures and light painting to capture the vastness and darkness of the tunnel. Look for interesting textures on the walls and any water features.
A camera with good low-light performance and a wide-angle lens is ideal. A sturdy tripod can also be helpful for long exposures. Don't forget your powerful flashlight!
Drone usage is generally not permitted inside enclosed spaces like tunnels due to safety and potential interference with navigation. Always check local regulations before flying drones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Bring flashlights or headlamps for the little ones – it enhances the fun and helps them feel brave. Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for the cool, consistent temperature inside. Keep an eye out for bats or crawfish for an extra element of discovery!
+1🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers & Hikers
Prioritize a reliable headlamp or flashlight for safety and exploration. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to enjoy a more solitary experience. The tunnel's length provides a good workout, and the surrounding trails offer opportunities for longer hikes.
📸 Photographers
While phone cameras struggle, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with good low-light capabilities and a wide-angle lens will yield better results. A tripod is highly recommended for stable long-exposure shots. Don't forget to capture the textures of the tunnel walls and any water features.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Blue Ridge Tunnel
+2The excavation process was arduous, relying on hand drills and black powder. Tragically, many workers lost their lives during its construction due to dangerous working conditions, accidents, and diseases. The tunnel's immense scale and the human cost of its creation are palpable when you walk through its dark expanse today.
+1After its operational life as a railroad tunnel, it was eventually abandoned and later repurposed as a hiking and walking trail. This transformation has preserved a significant piece of Virginia's history, allowing visitors to experience a unique connection to the past while enjoying a natural adventure.
+1Navigating the Darkness: Essential Gear
Headlamps are highly recommended as they leave your hands free, allowing for easier navigation and better control when taking photos or assisting others. Powerful flashlights are also a great option. Consider bringing extra batteries or a backup light source, just in case. The consistent 50°F (10°C) temperature inside means you won't be overheating, but the darkness can be intense.
+7Beyond lighting, comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential. The tunnel floor is a gravel path that can be damp and uneven in places. Wearing appropriate shoes will ensure a safer and more enjoyable walk. Bringing water and snacks is also a good idea, especially if you plan to hike the full length or explore the surrounding trails.
+1Family Adventures in the Tunnel
+1Kids often find the complete darkness of the tunnel thrilling and a bit spooky, especially when equipped with their own flashlights or headlamps. The echoing sounds within the tunnel add to the sense of adventure. Some visitors have even spotted small creatures like bats or crawfish inside, adding an element of discovery.
+1Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider bringing glow sticks or light-up gear for added fun, especially for younger children who might be apprehensive about the dark. The relatively short length of the tunnel (about 0.8 miles one way) makes it manageable for most children, and the surrounding trails offer opportunities for further exploration.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit