Hiking promises so much, from the chance to breathe in the fresh air to surprises when you least expect them. This sensational wooded Pennsylvania trail, for example, offers an abundance of natural beauty, including a river and towering trees. You’ll also come upon an abandoned railroad tunnel that boasts jaw-dropping views from one end.
Slip on a pair of comfy hiking shoes as you set off on the Lehigh Gorge Trail, which leads to an abandoned train tunnel. You have two choices for your journey.
All Trails/Luz Richards
If you prefer short but sweet, follow the 3.7-mile trail from Jim Thorpe directly to the abandoned tunnel. But, if you’ve got the time, you might want to hike the entire 24-mile trail.
All Trails/Jeff Trusa
The Lehigh Gorge Trail, which follows railroad tracks and is predominately flat, appeals to hikers, joggers, and bikers.
All Trails/Chris Sanfino
Although you’ll travel along some tree-lined stretches to help shade you from the sun, you’ll still want to bring plenty of water, and maybe some snacks, along.
All Trails/Chris Sanfino
One of the highlights of the trail is Turn Hole Tunnel, an abandoned train tunnel that dates back to 1864 and was part of the Lehigh and Susquehanna Railroad.
All Trails/Tonya Foster
Trains would pass through the tunnel on their way from Jim Thorpe to Wilkes-Barre. By the mid-20th century, the railroad tunnel would become obsolete.
All Trails/Tonya Foster
Today, visitors can walk through the tunnel, which serves as a viewing platform, and admire the sweeping views of Lehigh Gorge State Park.
All Trails/Ken Gallagher
Click here for the official website of the Lehigh Gorge Trail. Or, go here for Facebook.
All Trails/David Plennert
Do you have a favorite wooded Pennsylvania trail? Let us know in the comments! For another trail that leads to an abandoned train tunnel, set off on the four-mile Staple Bend Tunnel Trail.
All Trails/Luz Richards
All Trails/Jeff Trusa
All Trails/Chris Sanfino
All Trails/Tonya Foster
All Trails/Ken Gallagher
All Trails/David Plennert
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Address: Lehigh Gorge State Park - Rockport Access, S Lehigh Gorge Dr, Weatherly, PA 18255, USAAddress: 301-319 Main St, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229, USA
