Natural Tunnel

Mike Scherr

Drove two hours from Richlands Virginia to the Natural Tunnel State Park and I was not disappointed. It’s fall and the Mountain View’s were in full fall Bloom. There are two trails to the natural tunnel, one view above the tunnel and one in full view in front on the tunnel. I do wish the chair lift was working but it was closed. The park is decorating for Christmas by placing lights and lit figures everywhere. What a great day.

Casey

Natural Tunnel State Park is absolutely beautiful! The campground was pristine, and the bathrooms were very clean — a big plus when camping. The staff were all friendly and welcoming, which made the stay even better. The natural tunnel itself is incredible — it’s massive and fascinating to see how it formed naturally. Visiting in the fall made it even more stunning with all the colorful leaves. We also hiked the nearby Devil’s Bathtub trail, which was a great addition to the trip. Highly recommend this park for anyone who loves nature, hiking, and a peaceful camping experience!

Joe Dreyfuss

I am towards the end of Lover's Leap trail heading to Natural Tunnel and I hear a train whistle in the distance. I'm not sure who was chugging faster me or the train. Just made it. I was able to have the primitve camp all to myself. Excellent. Lover's Leap Campsite is much quieter than the Cove. The cabins look great. The park is large and some parts have to be accessed by public roads. #csx #virginiastateparks #vastateparks #naturaltunnel #hiking #trains

Jon Talbert

We visited mid-late September, just before the leaves began to change. The views are stunning, not something you’d expect to stumble across in this region. We came here to go hiking, and started the journey at the Chairlift Area, as it is marked on the map. Following Lover’s Leap Trail, to Gorge Ridge Trail, connected us to Purchase Ridge Trail. To us, this would be described as a moderate hike. Purchase Ridge is really not a difficult trail, don’t be afraid to get out there and stretch your legs on it. After our hike, we actually opted to not ride the chair lift. We took the trail down to the bottom instead. I counted the actual stair steps on our way back up, there are 172 of them. Visiting the mouth of the tunnel was the impressive part of this whole trip though. For the next time we visit, our focus will be to spend more time down at the bottom, hoping for a train to pass by! It is an active railroad, but the park staff knew of no set schedule for a train to come through.

Monica F

This park is very beautiful. We got there around 11 and there was plenty of parking. The hike down is a bit moderate but they have a lift. It's a very beautiful sight! We did the lovers leap trail as well. Would highly recommend. I was also told there's a day in July where they allow people to actually go in the tunnel.