This historic abandoned tunnel hike takes you 2.3 miles through a Washington mountain

While summer is still in full swing you may be looking to cool down outdoors. From caves to grottos, Washington has all sorts of ways to beat the heat. But what about trying your hand at an abandoned tunnel hike? Ready to adventure? Let’s check out Snoqualmie Tunnel.

You’ll find Snoqualmie Tunnel along the Palouse to Cascades Trail, formerly the John Wayne Trail, and Iron Horse State Park. The trail is 250 miles long but don’t worry, this section is only 5.3 miles roundtrip.

If you’re unfamiliar with the tunnel, it was once used by the Chicago-Milwaukee-St. Paul-Pacific Railroad. Luckily for us, a section of leftover tunnel creates the perfect hiking spot for adventure seekers.

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The tunnel itself is 2.3 miles long and runs directly through a mountain. That means it’s unlit and even cold in some parts. Without lighting, the light at either end of the tunnel gets smaller and smaller until you’re completely surrounded by darkness. For that reason, it’s easy to get disoriented and you definitely want to make sure you have a headlamp before beginning the hike.

If you’re up for the adventure it’s a great spot to check out during late summer and fall. We recommend bringing layers and a headlamp of course. But be sure to turn it off halfway through the tunnel if even just for a minute to give yourself the full experience. Now keep in mind, the tunnel does close seasonally from November 1st to May 1st so be sure to add this one to your plans sooner rather than later.

Snoqualmie Tunnel

Where: Palouse to Cascades Trail
When: Closed November 1st-May 1st
Cost: $11.50-$35

Information on the Snoqualmie Tunnel comes from the Washington Trails Association and is accurate as of publication date.