One of the most unique hiking experiences in the Golden State is also perhaps the creepiest hike in Northern California. Located in the Sierra Nevada near Norden, the trail leads hikers through long-abandoned railroad tunnels known as the Donner Pass Summit Tunnels. The tunnels were used by trains for well over a century until the line was rerouted. Walking through the tunnels today provides an eerie experience and a memorable adventure – plus, the mountain views are breathtaking! If you have yet to explore these abandoned tunnels, be sure to consider the Donner Tunnels hike for your next adventure.

The hike through the historic Donner Pass Summit Tunnels in the Sierra Nevada Range is a unique adventure.
Wayne Hsieh/Flickr
It not only combines history and scenic beauty, but it's also pretty creepy, so be sure to bring a flashlight...and possibly a friend!
The now-abandoned railroad tunnels were constructed by Chinese laborers over a span of 15 months.
John Morrison/AllTrails
They were completed in 1867 and were used for 125 years until the railroad line was rerouted in 1993. Both Donner Pass and the tunnels are named after the ill-fated Donner Party.
Abandoned for decades, the tunnels are now a popular destination for adventure-hungry hikers.
Emma Eldridge/AllTrails
An easy, five-mile out-and-back trail winds through the several tunnels at Donner Pass.

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There are a few different ways to approach the hike through the tunnels.
Vojta B/AllTrails
A popular place to start the Donner Tunnels hike adventure is at the intersection of Donner Pass Road and Sugar Bowl Road, near Donner Ski Ranch. From here, you're well on your way to Tunnel #6, the most popular of all the tunnels. This is definitely hiking in Northern California at its best!
Following the trail, you'll be led into the rest of the tunnels. They are certainly large and impressive! They are also very dark with light pouring in at only certain spots.
Pierce Kadlec/AllTrails
Be sure to bring a flashlight and/or a headlamp, almost as if you were going to be exploring caves in NorCal. Reliable shoes or boots are also a must; the terrain inside of the tunnels is unpredictable and prone to tripping hazards.
Another thing to keep in mind when hiking the tunnels is that, although a popular hiking destination, part of is technically private property.
James Rector/AllTrails
Enforcement is generally known to be hands-off, but you may be asked to leave. And as always, be sure to abide by Leave No Trace principles when embarking upon this fascinating hike which is arguably one of the best hikes in Northern California.
Creepy, historic, scenic - the hike through Donner Summit Tunnels offers a bit of everything.
Ken Lund/Flickr
Add this one-of-a-kind hike to your Northern California adventures bucket list! Or perhaps even this road trip to abandoned places dotted throughout Northern California!

History and scenic beauty combine at this creepy hiking trail in the Sierras.

Have you done the Donner Pass Railroad Tunnel Hike? If so, what do you think? Were you creeped out? If so, or even if not, we’d love to read about your experiences in the comments section.

This enticing video shares 11 scenic coastal hikes in Northern California that will leave you clamoring for more!

For more exciting things to do in SoCal, like guided hikes and intriguing courses, Airbnb Experiences is an ideal resource.

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There are so many wonderful waterfalls in Northern California...some more known than others. If you’re looking for something more off-the-beaten-path, be sure to check out these stunning hidden waterfalls:

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Featured Addresses
Donner Pass Road, Donner Pass Rd, Norden, CA, USA