Blue Ridge Tunnel
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The Blue Ridge Tunnel—also known as the Crozet Tunnel—is a historic railroad passage beneath Rockfish Gap, now open as a dark, cool walking and cycling trail between Nelson and Augusta counties. Bring a dependable light: the tunnel is nearly a mile long and has no interior lighting.[1]
Visiting the tunnel
The trail runs between east and west trailheads and is about 2.25 miles end to end. The tunnel itself is nearly a mile long. Visitors can walk in from either side and turn back rather than traverse the full route; check the county’s current trail information before setting out, as conditions and access can change.[2]
Nelson County lists the trail as open daily from sunrise to sunset. Parking at both trailheads is limited: use designated spaces only, and do not park along the road. Portable restrooms are at the trailheads, but there are no restrooms or water fountains along the trail. Confirm current rules and conditions with the county before visiting.[3]
What to expect
The tunnel is unlit, so bring a reliable flashlight or headlamp and enough battery for the walk back. The interior can be wet and uneven underfoot; watch for other visitors and take care on the surface. Dogs are allowed on leash, and cyclists must yield to pedestrians. The county recommends the east approach for a less strenuous visit and notes that the west approach is steeper.[4]
The trail is a practical stop for people exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains or traveling through the Rockfish Gap area. Check the county’s guidance on parking, trail conditions and access before you go, particularly if you need a more accessible route.
A railroad engineering landmark
The tunnel was designed by engineer Claudius Crozet for the Blue Ridge Railroad. Construction began in 1850, and the single-track passage opened to rail traffic in 1858. Carved through greenstone beneath Rockfish Gap, it crosses the boundary between Nelson and Augusta counties.[5]
Crozet’s work was part of a larger effort to carry rail traffic across the Blue Ridge. The Virginia Department of Historic Resources documents the tunnel’s construction and its place in the history of transportation in Virginia; the Library of Virginia also recounts Crozet’s engineering career and the tunnel’s opening.[6][7]
Plan a visit
Before leaving, check Nelson County’s visitor page for current hours, rules, trailhead directions and any notices. The east and west approaches differ in grade, so choose an entrance that suits your group and planned distance. Allow time for the tunnel crossing and return walk, and keep your light on hand throughout.
Nearby
A nearby city on the Shenandoah Valley side of the Blue Ridge.
Explore the region west of the ridge, with towns, landscapes and historic sites.
Plan a scenic drive in the Blue Ridge region; check official updates before travel.
Related books: Browse related Virginia books on Amazon
References
- ↑ Blue Ridge Tunnel, Nelson County, Nelson County. Retrieved October 22, 2026.
- ↑ Blue Ridge Tunnel, Nelson County, Nelson County. Retrieved October 22, 2026.
- ↑ Blue Ridge Tunnel, Nelson County, Nelson County. Retrieved October 22, 2026.
- ↑ Blue Ridge Tunnel, Nelson County, Nelson County. Retrieved October 22, 2026.
- ↑ Blue Ridge Tunnel, Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved October 22, 2026.
- ↑ State Historical Marker for Blue Ridge Tunnel to Be Dedicated in Afton, Va., Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved October 22, 2026.
- ↑ Claudius Crozet, Library of Virginia, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved October 22, 2026.