If you’ve got a passion for exploring but an aversion to small cramped spaces, then this aboveground cave is the perfect solution. Natural Tunnel is found in the Appalachian Mountains of Scott County and, unlike most caves, can be seen and explored in the light of day. Geologically speaking, this rock formation is amazing. The state park which has been built around it is a must-visit as well. With trails and a nearby river to enjoy, your visit to Natural Tunnel will be one for the books.
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Brian Kilgore/flickr The cave that forms a natural tunnel near Scott County is so large that it actually functions as a railway tunnel. The tunnel reaches 80 feet in height and 200 feet in width.
Wikipedia The story behind the creation of this tunnel is a fascinating one. Over a million years ago, groundwater seeped through crevices and slowly began to dissolve the limestone. A small river by the name of Stock Creek took its route under the rock and contributed to the gradual erosion. This process took the course of several thousands of years, and evidence of fossils can still be seen in both the creek bed and the cave walls.
Virginia State Parks/flickr There’s folklore surrounding this aboveground cave as well. The story tells of a Cherokee woman who suffered the forbidden love for a Shawnee man. The two jumped to their deaths from the highest point on the formation, which has been called Lover’s Leap.
Virginia State Parks/flickr There are seven different hiking trails that lead to the park’s unique geological features. The longest of these trails is only 2 miles, so feasibly you could pick a few to tackle for the whole day. Most of the trails are also open to mountain bikers. For those with limited mobility, there is a 500 foot boardwalk that leads right to the tunnel.
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Natural Tunnel State Park/Facebook The railway which passes through Natural Tunnel was constructed in 1893. The first train to pass through was in operation just one year later, owned by the Virginia & Southwestern Railway Company. Later, the tunnel was purchased by the Tennessee & Carolina & Iron and Steel Company. The railway still runs today, although instead of passengers, this line carries only coal.
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Virginia State Parks/flickr You don’t just have to explore the park by foot, either. Many hours can be spent on the nearby Clinch River. These awesome chairlifts are sure to provide excellent views of the surrounding area. The chair lift is in operation from 10 AM - 6 PM, and park itself is open from 8 AM til dusk.
Va. Dept. of Conservation & Recreation/flickr If you’re looking to extend your stay, you can rent one of the park’s on-site cabins. There are also two campgrounds in the park, complete with a camp store and gift shop for any necessities that may have been left at home.
Have you visited Natural Tunnel State Park recently? What did you think of this incredible aboveground cave? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Brian Kilgore/flickr
The cave that forms a natural tunnel near Scott County is so large that it actually functions as a railway tunnel. The tunnel reaches 80 feet in height and 200 feet in width.
Wikipedia
The story behind the creation of this tunnel is a fascinating one. Over a million years ago, groundwater seeped through crevices and slowly began to dissolve the limestone. A small river by the name of Stock Creek took its route under the rock and contributed to the gradual erosion. This process took the course of several thousands of years, and evidence of fossils can still be seen in both the creek bed and the cave walls.
There’s folklore surrounding this aboveground cave as well. The story tells of a Cherokee woman who suffered the forbidden love for a Shawnee man. The two jumped to their deaths from the highest point on the formation, which has been called Lover’s Leap.
There are seven different hiking trails that lead to the park’s unique geological features. The longest of these trails is only 2 miles, so feasibly you could pick a few to tackle for the whole day. Most of the trails are also open to mountain bikers. For those with limited mobility, there is a 500 foot boardwalk that leads right to the tunnel.
Natural Tunnel State Park/Facebook
The railway which passes through Natural Tunnel was constructed in 1893. The first train to pass through was in operation just one year later, owned by the Virginia & Southwestern Railway Company. Later, the tunnel was purchased by the Tennessee & Carolina & Iron and Steel Company. The railway still runs today, although instead of passengers, this line carries only coal.
You don’t just have to explore the park by foot, either. Many hours can be spent on the nearby Clinch River. These awesome chairlifts are sure to provide excellent views of the surrounding area. The chair lift is in operation from 10 AM - 6 PM, and park itself is open from 8 AM til dusk.
Va. Dept. of Conservation & Recreation/flickr
If you’re looking to extend your stay, you can rent one of the park’s on-site cabins. There are also two campgrounds in the park, complete with a camp store and gift shop for any necessities that may have been left at home.
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