All Trails This is another excellent application for smartphone use. Whats the Best Part of Shawnee National Forest? Biking Tunnel Hill State Trail is great because there are many side adventures and stops you can make while enjoying the trail, especially if you plan to be one the trail all day long. Tunnel Hill 100/50 is an ultra marathon running event taking place on the beautiful Tunnel Hill State Trail, starting and finishing in Vienna, IL park. You can use that to help determine your location and route, too. Lets examine some of the trails most common questions and answers. The information signage at the trailhead shows a past photo and provides more information. You can start biking from Vienna and heading south. For more information and current conditions, contact the trail manager (listed below). Subscribe to the official Hiking with Shawn Newsletter and get a free gift! 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. The village was named after Karnak of Egypt, as many other areas around Southern Illinois are known as Little Egypt. Bring plenty of water with you while using the trail. Tunnel Hill State Trail is a 50+ mile rail trail in Southern Illinois. Southern Railroad. You will need to start early and prepare for that many miles. Please use caution is biking/hiking to this store. Midway, Tunnel Hill marks the highest point of the trail at 680 feet above sea level. Dont make it a competition until you are physically and athletically ready to compete against your previous rides. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. The history of this community was active during the railroad day in the late 1800s and early 1900s. A grandson of Hampton was also a founder of the nearby City of Harrisburg. Mostlypart, there arent many dog-chasing-people encounters along the trail. Some, like Bloomfield, Sanburn, and Ledford, are barely more than hamlets. 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. The trail is mainly made up of crushed limestone. Please watch for snakes and give them plenty of room. The official website for Tunnel Hill Trail is located on the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website. The trail supposedly is closed during night time hours but a good bike light should be installed on the bike in case you are on the trail in the dark as there are very little lights along the trail and at intersections with roads. The abandoned railroad right-of-way varies between 40 and 200 feet in width. Counties: Saline, Williamson, Johnson, Pulaski My name is Shawn Gossman and I founded Hiking with Shawn. Others, like New Burnside (named for our good buddy Ambrose) are shrinking. The trail runs for 45 miles from downtown Harrisburg to Karnak in southern Illinois. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. New Burnside is a village along the trail located in Johnson County. You can unsubscribe anytime with ease. As you make your way toward Heron Pond Lane, youll see plenty of trestles, swamps, and scenic creeks. Oct 21 2020, 8:55 pm. Let us know if you manage it! This PDF will be sent to your email right after you subscribe (check your junkmail just in case and add me as a contact). Dont get me wrong, I have very expensive bicycles (not that much though!!) Equestrians are prohibited from using the trail besides crossing it while on the River to River Trail. There is a small church located on Heron Pond Lane that has been reopened for services. Are you a cyclist, runner, or hiker? The ride will be at just about 20 miles as a round trip. This route is the best for beginner cyclists and those with young children. Tunnel Hill State Trail stretches for 45 miles from Harrisburg to Karnak. . State(s): Illinois Settlers started migrating to Stonefort during the early 1800s. 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. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. You should also consider slippery conditions as well. Discover top travel stories and even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois with our free magazine. Starting from Harrisburg, you could do a much longer overnight bikepacking (or hiking) adventure nearly 100 miles in length. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. Ill do it more than once, myself. I recommend this app first because it helps Tunnel Hill and rail trails. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. We hope you enjoy your stay. Hunting is not allowed on Tunnel Hill State Trail, but properties around the trail may have hunters during hunting season. Thank you for checking out my Tunnel Hill State Trail guide in southern Illinois. Heron Pond near Vienna is about a mile bike ride and a short stroll from the trail. Longitude: -89.01867Latitude: 37.31144. It features several historic sites and its own Boot Hill Cemetery. On this Ghost Town Exploration, I explore a portion of Parker City, Illinois with some old foundations and other items present. You might also join mySouthern Illinois Hiking & Outdoor Resources Groupon Facebook, too! Youll bike uphill to the Tunnel, but the downhill ride back is a great reward. Lets check out some of the adventures you can enjoy today! 146 Vienna IL 62995 Phone:+1 618-658-2168 Website: Visit Website Video & Images What's Happening Near Vienna 22 Apr Junque Jamboree Multiple services are available in Vienna, including gas stations, restaurants, fast food, grocery stores, and other things. Find out how to get to Illinois by plane, train, bus and driving. I would recommend you at least do this route once. 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. Thanks again for checking out another one of my articles and until next time, Ill see you on the trail! Cyclists should bring plenty of water and snacks. The trailhead features water, restrooms, parking, bike repair tools, bike rack, signage, and picnic tables. 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. A Brief History. Stop at all stop signs and intersections. It was named after Ambrose Burnside, who was a Civil War general. The village owns a campground along the trail where users can stay (for a fee). 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 . #EnjoyIllinois and well all be inspired by your adventures. Some areas (especially around Harrisburg) are paved. Ive upgraded to that myself and I like it a lot. Ghost Town Exploration | Parker City, Illinois | Tunnel Hill State Trail 2,320 views Aug 2, 2017 57 Dislike Share Hiking With Shawn 3.61K subscribers On this Ghost Town Exploration, I. Alrighty folks, I hope you have enjoyed this content. 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. The towns names sound Spanish in nature. To avoid most hazards, stay on the trail. You should be! The railroad changed hands through the years and was operated as the Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific; the New York Central; Penn Central; Conrail; and during its most productive years, the Cleveland, Chicago, Cincinnati & St. Louis Railroad, known as the Big Four. Bring plenty of snacks and food while using the trail. Larger animals may cross the trail including deer, bobcat and coyotes. The town was initially located near the structure but was moved closer to the railway at some point. Tunnel Hill State Trail Facts States: Illinois Counties: Johnson, Pulaski, Saline, Williamson Length: 55.3 miles Trail end points: Barkhausen-Cache River Wetlands Center at IL 37 (Cypress) and Eldorado High School athletic fields at N. Main St. (Eldorado) Trail surfaces: Concrete, Crushed Stone Trail category: Rail-Trail ID: 6032279 Activities: Helpful NRT contacts. The longest, Breeden Trestle, is also the highest at 90 feet. There are many different applications available for smartphones on this trail. 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. Harrisburg is a stable economic community but is said to have once thrived during the coal mining and railroad booms. That is Parker City! Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is being used to monitor the bike rental area. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. Lakeview is the oldest African American settlement in Illinois and the founding families hold an annual reunion. The central section of Tunnel Hill Trail passes through the Shawnee National Forest, Illinois' only national forest. 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 City is known for its annual Sasquatch Festival, which celebrates Sasquatch or Big Foot but also has music, food, entertainment, and more. These are some of the applications Ive used and recommend you to use, too. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. Tunnel Hill 50/100 Routes: (50/100-Mile Round Trip) If you are interested in doing the 50-mile or 100-mile routes that the Tunnel Hill 50/100 race does, you can enjoy doing it. There is a railroad museum located next to the trailhead. You can also support me by becoming aPatreon Supporterfor as little as $3/month and you can cancel anytime (no contracts or catches). Biking The trail is managed by Illinois Department of Natural Resources. If for example, you choose to go riding on a really hot and humid day, exercising will only make it seem hotter. If it has rained on the trail, the crushed limestone surface is going to be soft and harder to ride on. The portion of the trail in between Harrisburgs main city to Eldorado is on the rugged side. There are other sightseeing opportunities in the area, including the Henry Barkhausen Wetland Center and Big Cypress Access. Mosquitoes can be bad during the warmer months bring plenty of bug spray. The closing of railways and mining operations effectively led to the towns declining population and economic structure. For a limited time, I'm giving away my 70+ page PDF guide focusing on some of my favorite Hiking Trails in Southern Illinois. After the railway was abandoned, the town and its population diminished like the other communities along the trail. The site office is in Vienna in a former railroad station, which includes interpretive displays and other information. This is an incomplete list of ghost towns on California sortable by town or county. While second-skin styles are best when riding, they make a baggier option for folks who are concerned about modesty. Winner 2022 NRT Photo Contest, Winter Trails. Your head and brain is worth protecting. It is a day-use facility, offering drinking water, privy toilets, and parring in access areas. Criminal activity along the trail and at trailheads is very low but you should ensure that you lock your vehicles and hide valuables before leaving it to ride. Bicycle Rentals and Repairs on the Tunnel Hill State Trail. According to Wikipedia, it was named after the Secretary of War, William Worth Belknap. The many small communities offer specialized mom and pop restaurants and shops that are worth looking into. that are awesome bikes well worth their cost and they do a lot for my needs. Consider following Hiking with Shawn on. Hiking & Trails A good pair of tight fitting (Spandex/Lycra) bike shorts or bib-shorts and cycling jersey will make life so much better and reduce the pain and chaffing. If youre overweight and out of shape and ride a longer route, it could end being very uncomfortable and not fun at all for you. Howdy folks! This is also why I recommend bringing a lunch above. The trailheads for the trail are day-use only. The truly hardcore clock up 100 miles, by going both ways! The park has bathrooms with running water. 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. Check out my Google Custom Map below for the Tunnel Hill State Trail length and different stops along the way. Several campgrounds are located nearby. The tunnel is usually extremely dark in the middle. 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. Weve struggled to find information about the old communities of Bender and Rago, so if you have any stories to share wed love to hear from you. It is mainly uphill from Vienna to Tunnel Hill and begins to go downhill from Tunnel Hill towards Harrisburg. Bicycling (on pavement)CampingDogs - On leashPedestrian - Walking/Hiking/RunningRoller/Inline Skating, Location: Counties of Saline, Williamson, Johnson, and Pulaski The Tunnel Hill State Trail, which was begun by General Ambrose Burnside in the late 1800s, is a Civil War-era relic. Rolling agricultural fields, reclaimed strip mines, ravines, rocky streams and wooded bluffs dominate the northern half of the Tunnel Hill State Trail. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. The abandoned railroad right-of-way varies between 40 and 200 feet in width. Carrier Mills is located in Saline County along the Tunnel Hill State Trail. There is only one tunnel on the trail, but it is around 550 feet long. The trail runs for 45 miles from Feazel Street in Harrisburg to Karmak in southern Illinois. Be sure to subscribe to myYouTube Channelto see my latest videos, shorts and live streams. owners were the Southern Railway and following a merger, the Norfolk You can always fix your hair but you cant always fix brain damage. All wildlife is protected under state law along this trail. 23 trestle bridges along the trail provide great spots to stop for a break and enjoy the panoramic views out over the countryside. Hiking with Shawn offers Itinerary Planning Services at a low cost. Major sporting events even take place on the trail. Check your junk mail and add my address to contact list if you don't get the email with my guide download. Share the trail with other users. No matter where you are on the trail, if an emergency occurs call 911. The history of Eldorado is fascinating. The town gave relief efforts during the Flood of 1937. Runners should bring plenty of water and snacks. Youre less likely to see many people from Vienna to Shelby Road along this route. In Harrisburg, the trail is paved. . Illinois Dept. As the most popular route, youll likely encounter other cyclists, runners, and walkers while you ride. This village was established in 1905 when the post office was created. Some additional resources to the Tunnel Hill State Trail are available. So, I felt like Eldorado deserves an honorable mention in this guide. Along this route, you will see different forest environments, bluffs, rock formations; side trails for hiking, trestles, old farming equipment, old homesteads, signs of the railroad that use to thrive here and the tunnel. There are also creeks and the Cache River that you can look at to see other wildlife. Wetland Center 5K: (3.5-Mile Round Trip) This lovely 5K run starts from the Wetland Center and goes back to the Karnak Trailhead. If you add the Wetland Center branch, the length is 53.6-miles. 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 northern half of the trail passes rolling fields and wooded bluffs. The last railway company to own the line was Norfolk Southern. Beginning in Harrisburg, the trail is at 370 feet above sea level, rising to 680 feet at Tunnel Hill and then dropping to 340 feet at Karnak. The trail ends in Karnak at the Barkhausen-Cache River Wetlands Center. 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. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources website for Tunnel Hill State Trail says the trial is 45 miles. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 16 h 54 min to complete. The bathrooms here are usually locked, and the water is often turned off. The newsletter is free, sent once a month, and contains exclusive articles, tips, offers, contests, and upcomig events that you won't find anywhere else. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. If you would be so kind enough to support my efforts, you can do so by sharing this post with others, especially on social media. If you ride to the Wetland Center past the Karnak Trailhead, you can take a tour inside and even watch a video if you ask about it. In 1872 Burnside and others began the Vincennes & Cairo Railroad, which connected Vincennes, Indiana and Cariro, Illinois. Monarch Program. 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. Subscribe to the official Hiking with Shawn Newsletter and get a free gift! However, many trail users will also ride into the town to use their bikes/walking paths. And if youre thinking that name is awfully appropriate with its proximity to sideburns, then youll be delighted to know that hes actually the source of that very term. The village was founded in 1872 and was active during the railroad boom. The trail is mainly paved through Harrisburg and maintained by the city. However, in modern times, the City appears to be doing well. Four hours from Vegas is Belmont, and the sights you'll find here are some of the most amazing in the state.If the 100-foot chimney that was once used for WWII target practice . The site office is in Vienna, and includes interpretive displays and other information. Along the way, enjoy forests and bluffs and scenic environments. 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. You will get tunnel vision in most cases. Im unsure if theyve officially designated them as a rail trail system, but if not, they should because, legally, they can be a rail trail system. Viewers of Hiking with Shawn should never perform risky activities and should watch these videos at their own risk. Doing so, I wanted to create a guide all about biking Tunnel Hill State Trail but focusing on absolute beginners so that everyone can be able to enjoy the trail just as much as a seasoned cyclist would. Only ride, hike, or run the amount in which youre physically able to do. Learn how and when to remove this template message, Cox & Clark Trading Post and Steamboat Landing, Lists of ghost towns in the United States, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=List_of_ghost_towns_in_California&oldid=1138873239, Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 12 February 2023, at 02:51. Home The trail follows the old Vincennes and Cairo Railroad, which began in 1872 to transport passengers, coal, salt, wood, local apples, and peaches. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. 45 miles of wonderous Southern Illinois, running along the route of the old Vincennes and Cairo Railroad. Dont block the trail move over if someone else is coming at you or needs to pass. The last owners were the Southern Railway and following a merger, the Norfolk Southern Railroad. There are many features at this trailhead. Subscribe now (for a limited time only) and get my free 70+ page35 Hiking Trails of Southern Illinois Guide. Vienna visitor Center's interpretive displays are closed to the public, but the restrooms are open. The water fountains at each trailhead are not guaranteed to be turned on. 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. While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts. 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. Harrisburg to Eldorado: (20-Mile Round Trip) This section is a route not many people ride. Youll see various forested terrains, trestles, creeks, and some left-behind railroad items along the way. Gasoline-powered bicycles or homemade eBikes are prohibited from using the trail. A local bike shop will also fit you for the right size of bike which is important for your health as the wrong size can lead to injuries and health issues later down the road. The terrain is uphill to the road and downhill back to the trailhead. Accessibility: There are 2 designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of Route 37 at the southwest end of the trail. For questions, suggestions, and corrections to information listed on the website, contact American Trails. Free African Americans founded the settlement of Lakeview, first named Pond Settlement, a mile south of Carrier Mills, shortly after the War of 1812. Tunnels aren't only man-made along Tunnel Hill State Trail. If you ride this route during the warmer months, note that youll likely see snakes along the way. . Make sure you bring plenty of bug spray for the hike. Box 671 302 E. Vine Vienna, IL A 543-foot long tunnel gave the nearby town its name, and now the trail. Harrisburg Paved Run: (10.10-Mile Round Trip) If you prefer a paved run away from cars, stick to the Harrisburg route. Start at the Karnak Trailhead (south), ride to the end of the Harrisburg Trail (north), and ride back. Near Carrier Mills is the site of New Castle, a small community of homes that included a church and a school. It is a day-use facility, offering drinking water, privy toilets, and parring in access areas. My favorite cycling apparel companies are. Whether you bike, hike, or run the trail, dont forget to share your stories, your snaps, and your top tips with us on the Enjoy Illinois Facebook page. As a former railway, most of the trail has gradual inclines and declines. Artistic rivet view. The trail is mainly shaded, but there are some areas where the canopy is opened up, and the sun can reach in. Now before you think Im going to tell you to buy a $10,000.00 bicycle, dont worry, Im not! Natures embellishment. Photo by Jonathan Voelz. This trailhead includes parking, water, restrooms, bike racks, information signage, and picnic tables. Telegraph Artifact. 62995 (618) 658-2168 http://dnr.state.il.us. Water boil orders or maintenance may restrict their use. Then Tunnel Hill State Trail[https://www. There is a small parking lot for the trailhead. The trail is made up of mainly crushed limestone. The trailhead and the 1.5-mile easy Heron Pond hike are at the end of the road. The only service in Tunnel Hill is Sandburn Junction, accessed from a gravel road or the trail going south after the tunnel. Remember, take only memories, leave only footprints. At its peak the town had a population of nearly 300, with 40 houses, hotels, stores, a post office, places to eat, and two barbershops. Your email address will not be published. Stop by for bike rentals, snacks, water and even ice cream. The rail-trail is part of a former railroad founded by Civil War . Tunnel Hill is an unincorporated village in Johnson County. Its free, of course, and fun for everyone of all ages! 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. The tunnel is 543 feet longlong enough to plunge yourself into total darkness! Box 368Hurst, Illinois 62949Thanks for watching another episode of Hiking With Shawn and until next time, I'll see you on the trail!#hikingwithshawn #southernillinois #shawneenationalforest #bluffage #hiking Then Tunnel Hill State Trail is a spectacular route for you. South of New Burnside youll come on a railroad pier shelter marked Parker City. New biker campground put in by the Village of Karnak. If you use the trail in summer, watch out for snakes warming themselves in the sun. Facilities Tunnel Hill State Trail is a day-use trail, offering drinking water, privy toilets and parking at the access areas. Poison ivy and ticks occur off the trail. Minutes away from the Tunnel Hill station is Egyptian Hills Resort where you can stop for a pizza and ice cream overlooking the Lake of Egypt. Search by Activity They also sell t-shirts and cool stuff like that as well. However, sometimes you might want some gear and equipment recommendations for your visit. However, I am tall and a bigger bike fits me better. There is much private property around the area, and its essential to know and respect it. The history of Harrisburg started in 1847 when it was founded. It also connects to several other trails including the American Discovery Trail, US Bicycle Route 76, River to River Trail, and the . Foggy Morning Trail. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. 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. The Tunnel Hill State Trail connects a number of communities, hamlets, and ghost towns. The Village of New Burnside was named after General Burnside. World record set here twice!. Featured NRT Articles The corridor was originally built during the early 1870s by a predecessor system that eventually became part of the massive New York Central (NYC). Sandburn Junction near the Village of Tunnel Hills offers bike rentals. Monarch Tagging Program. If you have enjoyed this guide and would like to see more like it, please share this article with others, especially on social media. OnXHunt This app is a premium app that is good for exploring public land boundaries. Some areas are gravel. Some foundations are visible on a bench next to a sign with no information. There was a local backlash as people feared that criminals and other unfriendly persons would use the trail. At least one responsible adult must accompany each group of 15 minors. 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