Hiking enthusiasts in Connecticut are no strangers to Steep Rock Preserve in Washington Depot. Trails cross a 988-acre natural oasis featuring everything from an incredible overlook to an abandoned train tunnel. This spot is truly a hiker’s paradise.

But those who limit their outdoor exploring to the warmer months may not realize that the preserve and especially the tunnel completely transform into something spectacular during the winter time. The frozen tunnel takes on an otherworldly appearance as the temperatures drop.

Ian Abrams
The railroad tunnel was once part of the Shepaug Valley Railroad. It was constructed in just nine months during 1871 and 1872. A group of miners from Pennsylvania carved the tunnel by hand using picks, dynamite, and nitroglycerin to blast through Steep Rock Ridge.
Ian Abrams
The walls of the tunnel are rough and it extends 235 feet with a slight curve. The railroad was abandoned in 1948. Now hikers enjoy the cool shelter from hikes during warmer months. In the winter, water that drips from the ceiling transforms the tunnel into a gorgeous icy wonder.

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Ian Abrams
The tunnel at Steep Rock Preserve is a one-of-a-kind place all throughout the year. However, it takes on its own special magic during the winter. When the days are cold and the temperatures are right, you can experience the spellbinding beauty of this frozen tunnel.
Steep Rock Association

Reach the tunnel at Steep Rock by taking the yellow circle trail along Tunnel Road to the blue square trail to the Railroad Tunnel. You can download the full map here. Find Steep Rock Preserve at 2 Tunnel Rd., Washington Depot, CT 06794. A special thank you to Ian Abrams, a regional photographer for sharing his images of the tunnel during the winter.

Have you ever hiked this gorgeous land preserve in the wintertime? Did you encounter the icy tunnel? Share your experiences and photos, if you have them, in the comments section below or in our Connecticut Nature Lovers Group on Facebook.

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