The history of Kentucky can often be told through what’s been left behind from our past. There are remnants of centuries of lives lived here and over time, more and more manmade structures are abandoned, left standing as a reminder of how things once were. Located in Jessamine County, Boone Tunnel is an abandoned tunnel in Kentucky that was once used by modes of transportation to cross the Kentucky River. The history of this area is fascinating and the tunnel still stands, as well as other pieces of how things once were in this area of Kentucky.

The Boone Tunnel dates back to the early 20th century when the stretch of road connecting Jessamine and Mercer counties was redesigned.
YouTube/History in Your Own Backyard
The tunnel is no longer open to vehicle traffic and you wouldn't want to drive through it anyway, because it pretty much leads to nothing these days. But that doesn’t mean that this abandoned tunnel in Kentucky isn’t fascinating!
An early "highway" in Kentucky, this road crosses over the Kentucky River and has been used for over a century.
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This area has many remnants of the past, and this abandoned Kentucky tunnel, the Boone Tunnel, is one of the most fascinating.
The tunnel came to be when Kentucky's very own Brooklyn Bridge was built, and the once very curvy road was made safer with the creation of the tunnel.
YouTube/History in Your Own Backyard
The bridge opened in 1871, and the tunnel followed several years later. The first route that led stage coaches and eventually automobiles across the river was curved around the edge of the cliff, so the tunnel's creation made this route easier to maneuver.

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Unfortunately, in 1953, the already weakened bridge collapsed when a food service truck tried to pass over it.
YouTube/History in Your Own Backyard
Thankfully, the driver survived but did sustain serious injuries. But the bridge's destruction led to its demise and the building of a new bridge instead of the Brooklyn Bridge Kentucky, which meant the Boone Tunnel was no longer needed to cross the river.
The tunnel still stands today and is approximately 150 feet long, 20 feet wide, and about 25 feet high.
YouTube/History in Your Own Backyard
You won't see any cars or horse-drawn carriages passing through it today, but you can see this engineering marvel and evidence of our past when visiting on foot.
The area is also home to pieces of the former Brooklyn Bridge Kentucky, which you can see more of in the video linked below.
YouTube/History in Your Own Backyard
With Shaker Village and the historic town of Harrodsburg nearby, you could easily spend a day trip exploring the history of this interesting region of Kentucky.
The Boone Tunnel is actually one of many abandoned tunnels in Kentucky and it definitely comes with one of the most tell-worthy stories.
YouTube/History in Your Own Backyard
Be sure to watch the six minute video below for more images, history, and information on this preserved piece of Kentucky's past.

Hear the entire story behind this abandoned tunnel in Kentucky, as well as our very own Brooklyn Bridge in this informative video by History In Your Own Backyard:

Boone Tunnel is one of many remnants from our state’s past. This abandoned tunnel in Kentucky once led across the river and it’s fascinating to imagine all of the people who passed through and how it now stands empty. Have you seen Boone Tunnel in person? What’s your favorite abandoned place in Kentucky? Let us know in the comments.

Check out this haunting place outside Campbellsville for another abandoned tunnel in Kentucky. If you’re headed on a road trip, make sure to check out our epic road trip snack guide.

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Boone Tunnel

Megan McDonald | October 06, 2023

What is the famous tunnel in Kentucky?

One of the famous tunnels in Kentucky is the "Nada Tunnel." Located in the Red River Gorge Geological Area within the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Nada Tunnel is well-known and often visited by tourists and locals.

The Nada Tunnel is a 900-foot-long tunnel that was initially constructed for a logging railroad in the early 20th century. It was carved through solid limestone and is only 12 feet wide and 13 feet high, making it a tight squeeze for modern vehicles. The tunnel serves as a gateway to the Red River Gorge, and driving through it is often considered a unique and somewhat thrilling experience due to its narrow and low clearance. The tunnel, with its rough-hewn, dark, and somewhat damp interior, can be spooky and is steeped in local lore and tales, adding an element of mystique to its historical and geological significance. 

Are there any tunnels in Kentucky?

Yes, Kentucky is home to several tunnels, both natural and man-made, that have various uses and histories. Some of these tunnels are quite well-known and have become points of interest for locals and tourists alike. Here are some tunnels in Kentucky:

  • Nada Tunnel: As previously mentioned, the Nada Tunnel is a well-known 900-foot-long tunnel in the Red River Gorge Geological Area. Originally constructed for a logging railroad, it's now a one-lane road used by vehicles.
  • Cumberland Gap Tunnel: This tunnel runs through the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, connecting Kentucky to Tennessee. It's a modern tunnel used to divert traffic away from the historical areas of the park to preserve them.
  • Zig Zag Railroad Tunnel: Located in East Bernstadt, this tunnel was part of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad. It's no longer used but is noted for its stone construction and historical significance.
  • Gunpowder Creek Tunnel: This tunnel in Boone County was constructed in the 1850s as part of the Lexington and Covington Railroad. It's known for its limestone construction and its length of nearly 700 feet.
  • Boone Tunnel: The Boone Tunnel, located in Stamping Ground, Kentucky, and named after American pioneer Daniel Boone, is one of the state's oldest tunnels, boasting a rich history and local legends since its construction in the 1850s and now stands as a historical point of interest despite no longer being in use.

 

Whether formed naturally or constructed, these tunnels offer a glimpse into Kentucky's geological and industrial history.

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Boone Tunnel, 9859 Harrodsburg Rd, Wilmore, KY 40390, USA