Few People Know This Beautiful Natural Tunnel In Tennessee Even Exists
Tennessee isn’t known as Ol’ Rocky Top for nothing. It sits solid on a bedrock of limestone, making deep dives into the ground difficult and explosion inducing. Nashville has seen its share of construction explosions recently, but its nothing new. Johnson County has one of the states most recognizable landmarks if you’re from the area, one that hearkens back in time to old construction projects and Tennesseean ingenuity, but if you’re not from the area you may hardly know this beautiful rock tunnel even exists.
Backbone Rock is located in Johnson County, Tennessee, and actually holds the title as the shortest tunnel in the WORLD. Yes, we said the world - not just our state, not just our nation. THE WORLD.
It's a great place to visit for a day hike...
Or even if you're looking to drive on through, like these neat folks.
The tunnel itself was blasted out of the rock in 1901 for ease of local railroad transport. Especially for the time, this is a phenomenal feat of natural engineering.
It's now a local recreation area that gives you the chance to hike, picnic or grill out by Beaverdam Creek. The tunnel overlook is another experience you can't miss, and the parking area is expansive so no worries about parking!
The tunnel itself is located within the Cherokee National Forest, so keep in mind that this is a NATURAL area. It may not be the safest and there are quite a few areas that don't have safety rails. All that means is you should watch your little ones and your footing - is there any place more beautiful than one that has been left to nature? We'd argue...no.
Have you ever visited Backbone Rock in Johnson County? Leave your favorite memories and tips in the comments below - we love to hear from our people, and your thoughts are highly regarded.
Natural tunnels aside, have you ever had the chance to Spend A Perfect Day On This Old-Fashioned Paddle Boat Cruise? We have, and it’s all sorts of magical.
