Most People Don't Know About Minnesota's Creepy Abandoned Tunnel
Sophia
Author
This abandoned tunnel in Minnesota looks like something from a horror movie, but it actually has an incredibly fascinating history. Located in Duluth, this former rail passage was once an important route through the mountains. Now, it’s a creepy spot that is open to the public for exploration.
The story of this tunnel starts with the Duluth, Winnipeg & Pacific Railroad. The railroad needed a way to transport valuable iron ore to the West Duluth ore docks, but the massive hills surrounding the town stood in the way.
Sixty men worked from both sides of the hills. They progressed at a rate of 10 feet per day, but the final tunnel needed to be at least 500 feet long and 18 feet wide.
In the fall of 1911, the tunnel was finally read for track to be laid. Workers installed the railroad track by hand.
The tunnel was a heavily used passage until the 1980s. In 1996, it was completely abandoned.
Related Stories
This Blink-And-You’ll-Miss-It Town In Minnesota Is So Worth Exploring
This Twin Cities Nature Sanctuary Makes For The Perfect Minnesota Day Trip
I've Lived In Minnesota My Entire Adult Life And I've Never Had Smelt
Today, the tunnel is part of the Superior Hiking Trail and open to the public for exploration. While you can travel along the entire length of the passage, the dark trek is not for the faint of heart.
If you want to explore this tunnel yourself, jump onto Highway 35 and exit south on Midway Road. Continue on Midway Road until you see a bridge and park in the lot to the left just before you cross the bridge. Follow a wood chip trail from the parking area towards the cliff dace, and take a right on the hiking trail at the top of the rail bed. The tunnel will soon come into view.
As with any underground adventure, it’s extremely important that you watch your step (and head) and pack a flashlight. Don’t go exploring on your own, and always remember to let someone back home know where you’ll be.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.