Posted in Virginia Nature March 24, 2017 by

One Of The Oddest Geological Wonders Is Located Right Here In Virginia

Both residents and visitors to Virginia are well aware of the unusual natural attractions that this state boasts. One of the most famous, Natural Bridge, is largely considered to be one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Yet fewer people know about a similar phenomenon that doubles as a train tunnel. Aptly named, Natural Tunnel is a must-see geological wonder.

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Natural Tunnel is a 300-yard long passageway that cuts straight through an ancient Appalachian Mountain Ridge.
DM/flickr
While the limestone tunnel has a longstanding history in the Native American culture, it is also prominently known for its discovery by Daniel Boone in the 18th century.
The Park is located at 1420 Natural Tunnel Parkway, Duffield VA 24244.
Google Maps
Nestled in the mountains of southwestern Virginia, Natural Tunnel State Park is entirely picturesque.
What’s so extraordinary about this geological feature is that it has doubled as a train tunnel since 1893.
DM/flickr
While the train tunnel originally served passenger trains, today the functioning line transports only coal. Visitors can only walk into the tunnel during a designated "Railroad Day," when the railroad intentionally stops running and visitors are free to explore the cave.
Parking for the attraction is located near the visitor’s center, atop the valley.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
Hiking down to the tunnel is an adventurous trek that takes about 20 minutes.
Virginia State Parks/flickr
You can also opt for the ski lift that offers visitors a unique perspective of the valley as it descends hundreds of feet.
Virginia State Parks/flickr
After you’ve marveled at this fantastic attraction, which has unofficially been dubbed the Eighth Natural Wonder of the World, there are plenty of ways to explore the surrounding landscape, too.
Brian Kilgore/flickr
Virginia State Parks/flickr
The nearby Stock Creek Trail offers a beautiful walk into the woods and, during warmer months, a glimpse at some seriously beautiful wildflowers.

To enjoy a virtual ride through Natural Tunnel, watch this brief video below:

Have you visited Natural Tunnel State Park? If so, we’d love to hear about your experiences there! Learn more about this unique attraction by visiting the Virginia State Parks page. For more easy-to-access natural wonders in Virginia, be sure to read about these 8 Amazing Natural Attractions Hiding In Plain View In Virginia.