Keystone Canyon Railroad Tunnel
Explore a historic Alaskan railroad tunnel and a beautiful waterfall in the dramatic Keystone Canyon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Keystone Canyon Railroad Tunnel
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a historic Alaskan railroad tunnel and a beautiful waterfall in the dramatic Keystone Canyon.
"Interesting tunnel and a really nice waterfall to the south of this tunnel."
🎯 Spot the Right Tunnel
Don't mistake the modern tunnel for the historic one! Look for the pull-off on a curve. :round_pushpin:
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for exploring the tunnel's interior and seeing the ceiling details. :flashlight:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Railroad Tunnel
Keystone Canyon
Step back in time exploring this fascinating relic of Alaskan railway history. Imagine the trains that once passed through!
Keystone Canyon Waterfall
South of the tunnel pull-off
A beautiful waterfall cascades down the canyon walls, offering a stunning natural contrast to the man-made tunnel.
Scenic Drive Views
Highway approach
The drive into Keystone Canyon itself offers breathtaking vistas of rugged mountains and lush greenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Finding the Right Tunnel
Safety and Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Spot the Right Tunnel
Don't mistake the modern tunnel for the historic one! Look for the pull-off on a curve. :round_pushpin:
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for exploring the tunnel's interior and seeing the ceiling details. :flashlight:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground can be wet and rocky, so good footwear is a must for safe exploration. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Don't Miss the Waterfall
A lovely waterfall is located at the other end of the pull-out area. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Spot the Right Tunnel
Don't mistake the modern tunnel for the historic one! Look for the pull-off on a curve. :round_pushpin:
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for exploring the tunnel's interior and seeing the ceiling details. :flashlight:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground can be wet and rocky, so good footwear is a must for safe exploration. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Don't Miss the Waterfall
A lovely waterfall is located at the other end of the pull-out area. :camerawithflash:
🚂 Train Spotting Potential
Catch a glimpse of trains like Nevada Northern 93 if you're lucky! :train2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Keystone Canyon Railroad Tunnel an interesting historical stop, offering a glimpse into Alaska's past. The nearby waterfall is a significant natural attraction, and the scenic drive into the canyon is highly praised. Some note the presence of graffiti and the potentially wet and rocky conditions inside the tunnel.
"Stopped by here on way to Valdez coming from north. Saw a tunnel to the north first and mistook it for this one. Had to climb along side of river to get there. It's not super challenging but a little tricky. Then, we went to the intended tunnel. Interesting tunnel. Did not traverse due to wet conditions. There is a really nice waterfall to the south of this tunnel. I didn't get a pic of it 😕."
Jimmer Wagner
"This is at a pull out that you could miss. It is right on a curve, so be careful. It is very interesting."
Donna Smith
"This is easy to miss, it is just a pull out of of highway and when it is raining the tunnel could have a lot of water in it. Also, be sure to look at the other end of the pull out area to see the waterfall and river view! (The only sad part is the graffiti in the tunnel.)"
Mark B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The tunnel is located in Keystone Canyon, Alaska, accessible via a pull-off on the highway. It's crucial to identify the correct historic tunnel, as there's a more modern one nearby. Look for the pull-off on a curve.
Yes, there is a pull-out area that serves as parking. Be cautious when entering and exiting due to the highway traffic and the curve.
No, the historic railroad tunnel is not for vehicular traffic. It's a historical site meant for exploration on foot.
The drive into Keystone Canyon itself is scenic. Travelers often stop at various points to admire the landscape before reaching the tunnel.
While the pull-off is generally accessible, winter conditions in Alaska can make travel challenging. Summer months offer the best conditions for visiting.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit the Keystone Canyon Railroad Tunnel. It's a publicly accessible historical site.
The tunnel is an outdoor historical site and is accessible at any time. However, daylight hours are recommended for safety and better viewing.
There is no entrance fee for Keystone Canyon itself or the historic railroad tunnel.
Official tours specifically for the tunnel are not commonly advertised. Independent exploration is the norm, with visitors using flashlights to see inside.
While generally open, visitors should be mindful of safety, especially in wet conditions or when there's a risk of falling rocks. Respect the historical nature of the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic railroad tunnel, admire the surrounding canyon scenery, and visit a nearby waterfall.
Exploring the tunnel itself might take 15-30 minutes, depending on how far you go and how much you examine. Allow extra time for the waterfall and scenic views.
It can be wet and rocky inside. Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes. Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards like fallen rocks.
While not a primary wildlife viewing spot, you might see birds or other small animals native to the Alaskan wilderness.
Yes, the tunnel offers unique photographic opportunities, especially with a flashlight to illuminate the interior. The surrounding canyon and waterfall are also picturesque. +1
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Summer mornings offer good natural light, while late afternoons provide a golden hour glow. The tunnel interior is best photographed with a flashlight. +1
A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the tunnel. A tripod can be helpful for low-light interior shots. Don't forget a reliable flashlight!
The tunnel entrance and interior are popular. The nearby waterfall also provides excellent photo opportunities.
While some find the graffiti detracting, it's part of the tunnel's current state. You can incorporate it into your shots to document its history.
If you're lucky, you might capture a train. Check local schedules or events like the Winter Spectacular for potential sightings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of safety and footwear. The tunnel can be wet and rocky, so ensure children wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Keep a close eye on them, especially if exploring further into the tunnel. The nearby waterfall is also a great spot for kids to marvel at nature's power.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the Keystone Canyon Waterfall and the surrounding canyon vistas. These offer opportunities for stunning landscape photography. Consider visiting during the golden hour for soft, warm light. If you're lucky enough to catch a train, that's a prime shot!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Tunnel
Be aware of the conditions inside. The tunnel can be damp, and the ground is often covered in loose rock. This historical site, while intriguing, requires a degree of caution. The presence of graffiti is noted by visitors, adding a layer of modern history to the ancient structure. Despite this, the sheer engineering feat and the sense of history make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in Alaska's industrial heritage.
For those who enjoy trainspotting, there's a chance to see trains, like the Nevada Northern 93, passing through during specific events. This adds an extra layer of excitement for rail enthusiasts visiting the area.
The Natural Beauty of Keystone Canyon
A significant natural attraction near the tunnel is the Keystone Canyon Waterfall. Located at the other end of the pull-out area, this waterfall provides a beautiful contrast to the man-made tunnel. Its cascading waters are a refreshing sight and a popular spot for photography.
The combination of historical remnants and raw natural beauty makes Keystone Canyon a unique stop. Whether you're interested in history, photography, or simply enjoying the Alaskan wilderness, this area offers a memorable experience. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and wet, especially near the waterfall.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit