Blue Ridge Tunnel Hike (Sunday after Spring Maintenance)

Blue Ridge Tunnel Hike (Sunday after Spring Maintenance)

Event Leader: Norman Reed

Website: https://www.blueridgetunnel.org/

When: Sunday, April 27, 2025, 10:00 am-1:00 pm

Online Sign Up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F45A5AE29A1F5C61-55097498-blue

Description:

The Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail is a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail near Afton, Virginia, that passes through a 4,273-foot tunnel. It offers a unique hiking experience with historical significance, as it was once part of the Virginia Central Railroad. The hike will be on Sunday, after the Spring Trail Maintenance Trip on Saturday.

The tunnel is not lit, so it's essential to bring a flashlight or headlamp. The tunnel is also cool and damp year-round. Wear waterproof shoes.

Meet at 9:30am the Williams Branch Picnic Area Shelter at Sherando before leaving for the hike

Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be leashed and owners must clean up after their pets. 

Length of Tunnel: 4,273 feet; change in elevation +55 feet; average grade 1.3%

Directions: From I-64: Take Afton Exit 99. Take a right onto 250 East. After 1.5miles, take a sharp right onto VA-6 East. Go .5 mile and turn right onto Afton Depot Lane.