If it has rained on the trail, the crushed limestone surface is going to be soft and harder to ride on. This rail trail is worth checking out and is favored by many locals and visitors. No purchase required. Some, like Bloomfield, Sanburn, and Ledford, are barely more than hamlets. So, I would mainly use this to explore state and federal public land off the trail. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hiking with Shawn is an entity of Hiking with Shawn LLC, registered in the State of Illinois. In the end, use common sense and always put safety first. Hiking with Shawn provides videos for entertainment purposes only. Harrisburg is the county seat of Saline County. Forman was located around Heron Pond Lane, which the trail crosses. Winner 2022 NRT Photo Contest, Winter Trails. Exercise and fitness has to be fun or it failed for most of us trust me, I was at that point a few times. Biking Tunnel Hill State Trail is a good way to get into shape but it will still work out your muscles and increase your fitness levels. Whether youre a beginner to advance cyclist, a runner, a hiker, or just want to walk with the kids or your pets this trail was made for you to enjoy. Event on the incredibly scenic Tunnel Hill Trail. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. I would recommend you at least do this route once. The railway transported coal and locally grown fruit from orchards around the area. There is a railroad museum located next to the trailhead. Heron Pond near Vienna is about a mile bike ride and a short stroll from the trail. Vienna has a rich history. No purchase required. Breeden Trestle Structure. But I enjoyed this route myself. I always consider the fact that I will likely sweat more and feel hotter than what it is like outside. The Tunnel Hill State Trail is a state park in Vienna, Illinois. I spend a lot of money on Hiking with Shawn and because of extremely high public land permit fees, I make very little money in return so everything helps. It was likely named after the Big Muddy Coal Company. The closing of railways and mining operations effectively led to the towns declining population and economic structure. Monarch Tagging Program. The railroad build was headed by General Ambrose Burnside, who has gone down in history for his effervescent facial hair. All Trails This is another excellent application for smartphone use. All; Albums; Appearances; Awards; In Performance; Press; Uncategorized The Tunnel Hill State Trail connects a number of communities, hamlets, and ghost towns. Motorized vehicles, horses and hunting are not allowed on the trail. Join the trail in downtown Harrisburg and roll south to Karnak, through farmland, forests and wetlands. Tunnels aren't only man-made along Tunnel Hill State Trail. However, many trail users will also ride into the town to use their bikes/walking paths. A light is needed for traveling on the trail after dark. As you travel south from Harrisburg youll come to Carrier Mills, which has a proud African American history. Major sporting events even take place on the trail. The trail ends in Karnak at the Barkhausen-Cache River Wetlands Center. And you should eventually try to better your riding abilities but it should never be rushed. Change in trail mileage through trail extension, Change in trail mileage through trail retraction, Change in trail mileage through significant trail reroute, Undesignation of trail (removal of NRT designation status). Much of the trail isnt lit up after dark. However, sometimes you might want some gear and equipment recommendations for your visit. Near Carrier Mills is the site of New Castle, a small community of homes that included a church and a school. Vienna to Tunnel Hill (10 Mile Round Trip): This is a longer route that is mostly uphill all the way to Tunnel Hill and downhill all the way back to Vienna. You can start biking from Vienna and heading south. Avoid junk food like candy and soda, especially on hotter days as these items will usually have a reverse effect on hydration and fueling for athletic activities. Known as the Road to Nowhere, its fascinating story involves an underwater ghost town called Judson that rests beneath the nearby Lake Fontana. Vienna is the most popular trailhead of the entire trail and often the starting point for most trail users. All of the trail in Harrisburg is paved and striped. There is no parking availability along this portion of the trail. Facilities Tunnel Hill State Trail is a day-use trail, offering drinking water, privy toilets and parking at the access areas. Carrier Mills is located in Saline County along the Tunnel Hill State Trail. I rode about 20 miles wearing regular clothing and my bottom was in some pretty serious pain after I was done. Are you a cyclist, runner, or hiker? As a former railway, most of the trail has gradual inclines and declines. There are many benches along this route to stop at and rest as well. I provide it for free and it takes a while to create. The trail is managed by Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Actions by nature can result in closed roads and other facilities. A light is best for use in the tunnel. Find out what's on in Illinois and Chicago with your guide to events, festivals, markets, music, theater, sports and more. This is along the Tunnel Hill State Trail for joggers and bicyclists to enjoy!Please give this video a thumbs up and if you haven't subscribed to my channel yet, please subscribe today, it's free and it motivates me to keep uploading more videos!Check out my previous video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XznMLy_Uz_UFollow me on social media for exclusive content and fun: http://www.facebook.com/hikingwithshawn/ http://www.twitter.com/hikingwithshawn/ http://plus.google.com/+hikingwithshawn/ http://www.instagram.com/hikingwithshawn/Check out my official Hiking With Shawn website at: https://www.hikingwithshawn.com/Want to send me fan mail?Hiking With ShawnP.O. Although an experienced cyclist should be Sandburn Amenities. The trailhead has parking, restrooms, water, bike racks, and picnic tables. But it is a combination of the two names, Judge Samuel Elder and Joseph Read, who were the towns founders. The history of Harrisburg started in 1847 when it was founded. Accessibility: There are 2 designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of Route 37 at the southwest end of the trail. The Milky Way featured alongside the 450-foot Breeden Trestle. Natures embellishment. The railway was used by passenger trains and coal, salt, wood, and local orchard shipments. In 1872 Burnside and others began the Vincennes & Cairo Railroad, which connected Vincennes, Indiana and Cariro, Illinois. Width: 120 inches. The trail goes through many ghost towns such as Forman, Bender, Rago, Parker City and New Castle. Lets examine some of the trails most common questions and answers. Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific; the New York Central; Penn Central; My favorite cycling apparel companies are. Biking Tunnel Hill State Trail is very safe. Synthetic clothing is best as it wickers sweat and moisture from the body and dries quickly. com/explore/listing/tunnel-hill-state-trail] is a spectacular route for you. Some services are available in town, including restaurants and a gas station. In 1872 Burnside and others began the Vincennes & Cairo Railroad, which connected Vincennes, Indiana and Cariro, Illinois. Are you a cyclist, runner, or hiker? Hiking with Shawn offers Itinerary Planning Services at a low cost. Tunnel Hill State Trail - Vienna City Park Bridge (Johnson County, Illinois) Built 1906 by the King Bridge Co. Pony plate girder bridge on the Tunnel Hill State Trail . The Tunnel Hill HQ is usually open during the daylight hours through the week and sometimes during the weekend. It goes through 23 trestle bridges, several ghost towns, a tunnel, a beautiful park, a remarkable corridor, and a trailhead in Vienna Station. World record set here twice!. The bathrooms here are usually locked, and the water is often turned off. No matter where you are on the trail, if an emergency occurs call 911. There are wineries at both ends and even camping at both ends. This trail is an excellent trail for running. Several campgrounds are located nearby. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. A well maintained and interesting area. Step back in time to the golden age of train travel and settle in for a peaceful ride to discover some of Illinois most charming towns and hidden treasures. An abandoned train line between Harrisburg and Karnak was transformed into the Tunnel Hill Trail. Each trailhead for Tunnel Hill Trail also displays a map with historical and trail information on its sign kiosk. Harrisburg to Eldorado: (20-Mile Round Trip) This section is a route not many people ride. Tunnel Hill State Trail Photos (211) Directions Print/PDF map Length 55.8 miElevation gain 1,108 ftRoute type Point to point Check out this 55.8-mile point-to-point trail near Harrisburg, Illinois. The Forman Depot was moved to Vienna City Park and now serves as the Vienna Visitor Center. Make sure you yield before crossing. At one time, the rumble of freight cars reverberated through the narrow tunnel. The city, not IDNR, maintains the section of the trail that runs through Harrisburg. The last If you fancy a historic detour while youre in Vienna, check out the first coal-fired iron furnace in Illinois, now on the National Register of Historic Places. There are many different applications available for smartphones on this trail. The trail runs for 45 miles from Feazel Street in Harrisburg to Karmak in southern Illinois. The Tunnel Hill State Trail passes by five ghost towns, abandoned communities that grew up around the railroad then withered and died when it closed. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. Tunnel Hill State Trail. Monarch Program. Motor vehicles are never allowed on the trail. You can also stop by Sandburn Junction for treats, bike rentals, and a greenhouse. It was named for John Alexander Harris, a local farmer who farmed and lived around where the city square is now located. Settlers began building houses around 1811 to protect themselves from opposing Native American forces. The trailhead and the 1.5-mile easy Heron Pond hike are at the end of the road. The trail continues on a trails spur for 2.5 miles from Karnak to Cache River State Natural Area - Henry Barkhausen Wetlands Center on the old Chicago and Eastern Illinois railroad bed. If cycling or strolling along the Tunnel Hill State Trail just isnt energetic enough for you, fear not, because weve got you covered! described as ghost townsForman, Bender, Rago, Parker City and New Castle. The town was initially spelled Eldereado but later changed to Eldorado. What kind of weather is most comfortable for you to be outside in? The trail passes through portions of the Shawnee National Forest. / 37.48500N 120.02028W / 37.48500; -120.02028. Pets must be kept on leashes at all times. In 1991, the Norfolk Southern Railroad gave the railway right-of-way to the State of Illinois. Using the trail during daylight hours is highly recommended. The Tunnel Hill State Trail is a bicycle trail running from Eldorado to Karnak, Illinois. Wooden trestles, with their system of slanted supports and horizontal cross pieces, spanned numerous bluffs and creeks. Oct 21 2020, 8:55 pm. There are plenty of opportunities for bikepacking or overnight hiking along the Tunnel Hill State Trail. Lets check out some of the adventures you can enjoy today! Please use caution is biking/hiking to this store. Belmont Ghost Town Belmont & Manhattan Ghost Towns. Relax in a peaceful country setting, take a nature hike, fish and enjoy friendly country hospitality Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois. Water, adequate parking, picnic tables, information signage, and restrooms are available. Youll see the 500+ foot tunnel within a few minutes, and if you make it a 5-mile round trip, you can get even the Breeden Trestle, the longest trestle on the trail. Vienna is the location of the Tunnel Hill State Trail Headquarters, which is located at the trailhead next to the City Park. The only service located in Karnak is a Dollar General Store. Biking Harrisburg is the largest city connected to the Tunnel Hill State Trail. After youre done, turn around and ride back to the trailhead. Wallace, Idaho. The NYC boasted a network of nearly 11,000 miles during its peak years . However, in modern times, the City appears to be doing well. If you want to use a mountain bike, I think you would be fine using one when biking Tunnel Hill State Trail. If you plan to be on the trail for more than 4 hours, consider bringing a lunch that doesnt require cooking to fuel yourself up. The village owns a campground along the trail where users can stay (for a fee). Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Conservation Inclusive Construction and Development Archive (CICADA). Ah Ambrose! Camping is generally not allowed along the Tunnel Hill State Trail. The trail is made up of mainly crushed limestone. The portion of the trail in between Harrisburgs main city to Eldorado is on the rugged side. There is much private property around the area, and its essential to know and respect it. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. Toward the close of the Civil War, Illinois became the first state to ratify theThirteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, which abolished slavery nationally. 45 miles of wonderous Southern Illinois, running along the route of the old Vincennes and Cairo Railroad. Venomous snakes (including copperhead and cottonmouth) occur along this trail. The trail was completed in the fall of 2001. A 543-foot long tunnel gave the nearby town its name, and now the trail. The trail winds through seven communities, including Carrier Mills, Stonefort, and Vienna. Youll also pass several abandoned ghost towns, that lost their lifeblood after the trains stopped running. I used to could ride through the tunnel without lights but anymore, I become disorientated and have a hard time doing it so now I try to use lights. Each spring and fall, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, in cooperation with other agencies and organizations, sponsors a bike ride on the trail. If youve enjoyed this guide, please consider sharing it with others whom you might think would appreciate it. Using a road bike is not recommended. Karnak to Harrisburg (Century Ride): (100-Mile Round Trip) If youre looking to do a Century Ride (100 miles), this is the route for you. Start off from the Tunnel Hill Trailhead and ride south. A 543-foot long tunnel gave the nearby town its name, and now the National Recreation trail. The trailhead offers parking, restrooms, picnic tables and benches, water, and information signage. Some areas are gravel. Continue through the tunnel until shortly reaching Sandburn Junction, an old general store turned into a trail store. Home In 1991 the last active owners of the railroad, Norfolk Southern, abandoned operations on the line and gifted the right-of-way between Harrisburg and Karnak to the State of Illinois. Most riders suggest using what is called a Hybrid or Fitness bike which is often a cross between road and mountain allowing for a good grip on the trail and the ability to use the road easily as well. Most of the time, renters use a payment honor system to rent bikes. . However, the plan to develop the trail was pushed through. The trail, which winds through seven towns, even touches upon a handful of ghost towns that faded into the landscape after the trains here stopped running. Viewers of Hiking with Shawn should never perform risky activities and should watch these videos at their own risk. The trestles range in length from 34 to 450 feet long. Reviews from cyclists and hikers mention wild turkey, quail, whitetail deer, lizards, turtles, and frogs. While second-skin styles are best when riding, they make a baggier option for folks who are concerned about modesty. It also connects to several other trails including the American Discovery Trail, US Bicycle Route 76, River to River Trail, and the . Ive previously created a guide for biking the trail as a beginner in case youre interested in that information. Fame is a fickle mistress. The trail is relatively easy to use for most people. Tunnel Hill State Trail is a 50+ mile rail trail in Southern Illinois. If you have to, get off and push and you might consider a bike light as well. Your email address will not be published. It was initially an Indian trading post in the 1800s. The trailhead features restrooms, water, picnic tables, bike racks, and information signage. I'll be including more guides and resources in that newsletter only so be sure to subscribe! Share the trail with other users. If you need help with the trail, have questions, want to see photos, or post photos and videos then we recommend you join the group. The clothing had also chaffed my legs pretty good from all the friction of the material rubbing as I rode. Donate, Browse NRT Map Parker City is one of the many Ghost Towns along the Tunnel Hill State Trail which was at one time, a thriving community until the decline of railroad operations turned it into nothing. Get there before 4:00 PM to be able to go inside the center and look around. The trail was once a bustling railroad line during the 1800s into the 1900s, back when there was a coal mining boom in the region. Alberta has dozens of ghost towns stretching throughout the province, most the result of a booming coal industry that were abandoned when operations failed . The Tunnel Hill State Trail, which was begun by General Ambrose Burnside in the late 1800s, is a Civil War-era relic. You can unsubscribe anytime with ease. Some areas (especially around Harrisburg) are paved. Tunnel Hill to Parker City (9 Mile Round Trip): This is a great route with a mostly downhill ride to (uphill on the return trip) from Tunnel Hill to an actual Ghost Town! The rail-trail is part of a former railroad founded by Civil War . Owner Linda Blackman is a treasure trove of information about the area and its history. Runners should wear comfortable running shoes and clothing. There was a local backlash as people feared that criminals and other unfriendly persons would use the trail. My favorite bike shop is Carbondale Cycle located in Carbondale. of Natural Resources 302 E. Vine, Vienna IL 62995 (618) 658-2168, Trestle over the Cache; photo by Jonathan Voelz, National Recreation Trails (NRT) Database, Market Research: Equity of Access to Trails, TRAILS SAFE PASSING PLAN: STOP, SPEAK, and STAND BACK, Public Lands and the Continental Divide Trail Study. Visit the Vienna Visitor Center (Foreman Depot) next to the park and trailhead for more information on these services. Add a portable air pump and a saddle bag with basic bike tools and a spare inner tube to ensure that you can fix flats and minor issues if they arise. Multiple services include large retail stores, fast food, grocery stores, great mom-and-pop stores, and more. Some of the towns have services while others do not. One lesson that I learn the first time cycling after not being on the bike for over 10 years was that my body wasnt used to a bicycle like it was back when I was back a kid. Tunnel Hill State Trail is a 50+ mile rail trail in Southern Illinois. A trail branch goes to the Wetland Center for the Cache River State Natural Area. You can always fix your hair but you cant always fix brain damage. New biker campground put in by the Village of Karnak. It is a day-use facility, offering drinking water, privy toilets, and parring in access areas. As you make your way toward Heron Pond Lane, youll see plenty of trestles, swamps, and scenic creeks. The trail runs along the former bed of a part of the Cairo and Vincennes Railroad, a transportation unit led during its early years by Civil War General Ambrose Burnside. Subscribe to the official Hiking with Shawn Newsletter and get a free gift! Attractions & Museums from $12.00 per adult The area Rt. 27 Safe Hiking Trails in Southern Illinois during Hunting Season. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is being used to monitor the bike rental area. The trail runs for 45 miles from downtown Harrisburg to Karnak in southern Illinois. Muddy was an exciting spot with one of the smallest post offices in the country, and the Eldorado trails are excellent (and paved). (Remember to bring bike lights.) According to Wikipedia, it was named after the Secretary of War, William Worth Belknap. Allow yourself plenty of time at the Wetlands Center because there is a lot to see. Its free, of course, and fun for everyone of all ages! Search by Activity The tail is managed by Illinois Department of Natural Resources with an additional 2.5 miles is managed by the City of Harrisburg. South of New Burnside youll come on a railroad pier shelter marked Parker City. Tunnel Hill State Trail. The majority of the trail is made up of crushed limestone. Subscribe to the official Hiking with Shawn Newsletter and get a free gift! If youve never seen Heron Pond, you will fall in love with this place. Helpful NRT contacts. EN. Southern Railroad. Nearly 2,000 people are actively posting on the group. Karnak is where the southern terminus of the Tunnel Hill State Trail is located. Most trailheads are in small communities that do not offer shopping locations. I also use this app and have purchased the premium version of it. Trail side entrepreneur. Check your junk mail and add my address to contact list if you don't get the email with my guide download. Discover top travel stories and even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois with our free magazine. Other cycling gear to consider when biking Tunnel Hill State Trail should be on your list as well. Trail Managers: please use the official NRT update form to update your trail for any of the following changes: >> Download the official NRT update form. Please use caution. Enjoy these photos taken around this area! Hikers and horseback riders may cross the trail. Ive seen otters in some of these creeks! While most of the trail is in the shade, a cycling cap and sunglasses might also be ideal. Around that area, youll see old structures associated with the former railroad, old road structures and even the foundation of a building that was once there. The Tunnel Hill State Trail only exists because of the rise and fall of Americas mighty 19th-century railroad network. Dont try to hit the animal. If youre a wildlife enthusiast, take a couple of side trips from the trail to experience some of the spectacular wildlife preserves in the area. For food, bring items that dont need refrigeration such as jerkies, crackers and cheese, health bars, fig bars, dried fruit and trail mix. Vienna visitor and tourism center connected to trail and park - community working to promote the trail. The trail should be easy for most groups, from beginners to advanced. There are also creeks and the Cache River that you can look at to see other wildlife. The trail starts at the Barkhausen Wetlands Center then passes through the beautiful town of Karnak. Several campgrounds are located nearby. Mosquitoes can be bad during the warmer months bring plenty of bug spray. The town is named after a Native American structure called a nearby Stonefort. It was also too close for comfort to the activities of local salt maker John Hart Crenshaw, who in 1842 was indicted for kidnapping a black woman and her children. New Burnside is a village along the trail located in Johnson County. The information signage at the trailhead shows a past photo and provides more information. The Cairo & Vincennes became a branch line of the Southern Railway before its trail . Rolling agricultural fields, reclaimed strip mines, ravines, rocky streams and wooded bluffs dominate the northern half of the Tunnel Hill State Trail. Parker City was a neighborhood in New Burnside that was located between Tunnel Hill and New Aside from a few foundations and traces of railway usage, the majority of these Ghost Towns have nothing to offer. After the mines and railroad shut down, the town did start to diminish. For the most part, the trail is easy to ride. Cabin rental near Cedar Lake, horse campground, tack store and outdoor recreation. Harrisburg to New Burnside: (36-Mile Round) This route is like the Harrisburg to Stonefort Route above, but it adds some additional mileage. The town was founded in 1870. The trail runs for 45 miles from downtown Harrisburg to Karmak in southern Illinois. Parker was once a prosperous community with a bank, hotels, and a thriving population. Today, Tunnel Hill Trail is enjoyed by cyclists, runners, and walkers worldwide. If you enjoy riding over trestle bridges and through dark tunnels you must experience the Tunnel Hill State Trail (THST) in southern Illinois. Trail Management: Judson disappeared beneath the man-made lake. The park has bathrooms with running water. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. If you choose to ride on a colder day, wind created from riding might make it feel colder than what it is. Continue on for another couple of miles enjoying the views of bluffs, hardwood forests, pine plantations and smaller trestles along the way. The Tunnel Hill Trail is part of a former railroad founded by Civil War General Ambrose Burnside. Featured NRT Articles Hampton Pankey was the first known settler of Carrier Mills and one of the earliest settlers in Saline County, arriving around 1804. The railroad changed hands through the years and was operated as the Photo by Jonathan Voelz. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. I use and love this app. Required fields are marked *. The towns names sound Spanish in nature. Once youre at the lane, take a right and ride to the end. The truly hardcore clock up 100 miles, by going both ways! The trail has an elevation gain of 1,108-foot according to All Trails. There are not many restaurants along the way in the smaller communities that the trail passes through and while some trailheads have drinkable water, these systems are not always reliable or turned on. Along the way, enjoy forests and bluffs and scenic environments. The privately owned Shawnee Forest Campground is located near the trail in Vienna. The trail crosses 23 trestles ranging from 34 feet long to 450 feet. Find out how to get to Illinois by plane, train, bus and driving. On this Ghost Town Exploration, I explore a portion of Parker City, Illinois with some old foundations and other items present. Youll bike uphill to the Tunnel, but the downhill ride back is a great reward. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. Preparing for a bike ride, hike, run, or overnight trip along Tunnel Hill State Trail often requires planning. Elevation High Point: 680 My first experience of biking Tunnel Hill State Trail allowed me to fall in love with it and I found myself biking Tunnel Hill State Trail every chance I got thereafter. This may be because they dont include the Harrisburg section. You will need to start early and prepare for that many miles. The Tunnel Hill State Trail is named for the railroad tunnel in the small Illinois town where it is located. For questions, suggestions, and corrections to information listed on the website, contact American Trails. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hiking with Shawn is an entity of Hiking with Shawn LLC, registered in the State of Illinois. All wildlife is protected under state law along this trail. Part of the Cache River State Natural Area, this mature cypress swamp boasts cottonmouths, rare bird-voiced tree frogs, and the largest cherry oak tree in Illinois. The closest bike shops to the trail are The Bike Surgeon in Carterville, Illinois, and Bike World in Paducah, Kentucky. Carrier Mills, Stonefort, and parring in access areas City, not,! Facilities Tunnel Hill State trail route of the trail crosses it for free and it a... 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They make a baggier option for folks who are concerned about modesty ; my favorite bike is... These videos at their own risk not many people ride way, enjoy forests and bluffs creeks. Opportunities for bikepacking or overnight Hiking along the Tunnel Hill State trail is made up crushed! Call 911 take place on the group network of nearly 11,000 miles during its peak.!