Explore Tunnel Hill State Trail: Illinois’s Most Scenic Rail Trail

If you love outdoor adventures that come stunning scenery and a side of history, the Tunnel Hill State Trail in Southern Illinois needs to be on your radar. This 45-mile trail winds through forests, wetlands, farmland, and small towns. There is even a historic railroad tunnel that is over 500 feet long!

We have explored several segments of the trail and it is always a pleasant ride and amazing adventure. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.

History of the Tunnel Hill Trail

The Tunnel Hill State Trail only exists because of the rise and fall of America’s railroad era. The trail follows the route of the old Vincennes and Cairo Railroad, which began operations in 1872 transporting passengers, coal, salt, timber, and local produce across Southern Illinois.

By 1991, the last active owners of the line, Norfolk Southern, abandoned operations and gifted the right-of-way to the State of Illinois. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources developed the old railroad bed into a rail trail for public use by surfacing it with crushed limestone and adding restrooms and drinking water along the way. The first sections opened in 1998, with the trail completed in 2001.

The trail also passes through seven communities, and passes the sites of several ghost towns that grew up around the railroad and faded away when it closed.

Tunnel Hill Trail Details

Tunnel Hill State Trail stretches 45 miles from Harrisburg to Karnak, with an additional 2.5-mile spur connecting to the Cache River State Natural Area at the Henry Barkhausen Wetlands Center.

Here are the highlights that make this trail truly special:

• The Tunnel: The trail’s namesake feature is a 543-foot-long tunnel. The tunnel original opened in the 1870s and was 800 feet long. A collapse in the 1920s reduced the length to the current size. Bring bike lights or a flashlight as the tunnel gets pretty dark in the middle and can be disorientating on a bike.

• 23 Trestle Bridges: These historic wooden trestles span bluffs and creek valleys throughout the trail. The longest and most dramatic is the Breeden Trestle, standing 90 feet tall and located 2.5 miles south of Tunnel Hill.

• Diverse Scenery: The northern half of the trail passes rolling fields and wooded bluffs, while the southern section winds through wetlands, ponds, and marshes. The northern half is more in the sun, especially when it passes through Harrisburg. The southern part is more shaded and in the trees.

• Wildlife: Keep your eyes open for wild turkey, deer, turtles, lizards, and frogs. In summer, watch for snakes warming themselves on the trail surface.

• The Trail Surface: The trail is surfaced with crushed limestone and is suitable for bikes, jogging strollers, and hikers. There are some climbs up to Tunnel Hill (the high point of the route), so plan your energy accordingly. The grade is gentle.

If you’re not up for the full 45 miles, there are several communities along the way where you can start, stop, or take a break.

Things to Know

Before you head out, here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:

• Check the map – You can print out a tunnel hill map HERE. The trailheads are marked with signs and many of them have restrooms and water.
• Bring bike lights or a flashlight – the tunnel goes almost completely dark and you will want them.
• Start at Tunnel Hill for a short but scenic ride – If you have kids or just want a shorter ride or just a walk, the Tunnel Hill parking lot is a good spot to start. It’s less than 0.25 miles to the tunnel and then 2.5 miles each way to the tallest trestle bridge. The grade is very gentle making it easy both ways. We have often walked just to the tunnel and back.
• Plan your distance – 45 miles is a full-day ride for a fit cyclist. If you want a more relaxed outing, plan to cover a shorter section and turn around or arrange a shuttle.
• Bring bug spray and sunscreen – There are bugs along the trail in summer, especially if you venture near Heron Pond or the wetland areas in the southern half. The trail is mostly shaded but there are some brief areas in the sun.
• Groups of 25 or more are required to register in advance with the site office to avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts.
• Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leashes at all times.
• Call ahead – Weather and natural events can occasionally impact road access and facilities. It’s always worth a quick check before you make the drive if traveling from far away.
• Refuel along the way – If you’re riding south toward Vienna, the Vienna Diner offers homestyle cooking and is one of our go to spots. Tio’s Tequeria has amazing Mexican food while Ned’s Shed is a popular local burger spot worth a stop. If you are traveling north, Harrisburg has numerous places to eat right by the trail.

More to See

Tunnel Hill State Trail is just one of many incredible adventures in far Southern Illinois. This is one of our top favorite areas to explore scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and even caves.

Heron Pond at Cache River State Natural Area is about a mile from the trail near Vienna and is absolutely worth the side trip. This mature cypress swamp is one of the most unique natural areas in Illinois. It’s an easy walk and genuinely doesn’t feel like you’re in Illinois!

The Barkhausen-Cache River Wetlands Center marks the southern end of the trail in Karnak and offers displays about the history of the area and interactive exhibits. This is a great stop if you have kids.

The Forman Depot Museum near the trail in Vienna acts as a tourist information center plus a treasure trove of local history with old photographs and railroad history in the old depot. (You can’t miss the giant bicycle out front!) The Vienna City park has a nice playground, wooden train for kids to play on, and restrooms.

Southern Illinois is full of incredible hikes. Consider combining your trip with a visit to Giant City State Park, Ferne Clyffe State Park, Bell Smith Springs, or one of many other of our favorite scenic trails in Shawnee National Forest.

Where to Stay

If you are planning an overnight stay in the area, our favorite lodging spots are The Cabins at Sunrise Hill, Songbird Lane Cabin, Shawnee Hills Glamping, and The Shady Roost.

Have you explored Tunnel Hill State Trail? Drop a comment below and let us know your favorite section!