Turn Hole Tunnel
An abandoned railroad tunnel in Lehigh Gorge State Park, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past and dramatic river views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Turn Hole Tunnel
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An abandoned railroad tunnel in Lehigh Gorge State Park, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past and dramatic river views.
"It's a remnant of the area's railroading past, a small dark tunnel that's quite the destination."
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the dark interior and spotting details.
⚠️ Obey 'No Trespassing' Signs
Safety first! Signs are posted for a reason. Enjoy from the entrance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Abandoned Tunnel Entrance
Lehigh Gorge State Park
Step into a relic of the past, an abandoned railroad tunnel offering a glimpse into industrial history.
River Views from the Other Side
Exit of Turn Hole Tunnel
Emerging from the tunnel reveals dramatic views of the Lehigh River below.
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Special
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
Experience the tunnel from a unique perspective aboard a historic scenic train.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Signs: Safety First
Timing is Key for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the dark interior and spotting details.
⚠️ Obey 'No Trespassing' Signs
Safety first! Signs are posted for a reason. Enjoy from the entrance.
👟 Watch Your Step
The ground inside can be uneven. Wear sturdy shoes for a safe visit.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
Great spot for unique photos, especially with a flashlight.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the dark interior and spotting details.
⚠️ Obey 'No Trespassing' Signs
Safety first! Signs are posted for a reason. Enjoy from the entrance.
👟 Watch Your Step
The ground inside can be uneven. Wear sturdy shoes for a safe visit.
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
Great spot for unique photos, especially with a flashlight.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Turn Hole Tunnel an interesting historical site, though access is restricted by 'No Trespassing' signs. While some appreciate the eerie atmosphere and river views from the entrance, others note the lack of accessibility and potential safety hazards. It's a unique spot for photos, but caution is advised.
"The area seems quite the destinations for walking, biking and rafting and quite scenic. The cave or abandon railroad tunnel is not part of any of that it’s just sitting there. Still a tunnel is a tunnel. It’s quite a feeling to walk through it to the other side where it drops off into a river. The videos look very bright, but that’s because of a setting I had on my phone I would recommend a flashlight, but it’s not necessary."
ARBBFamily
"Not as dark inside as I expected, but it was a sunny day. Highly recommend taking a flashlight just in case. Watch your step! Visit soon, we heard today the park is planning on closing this for real, for good this year."
Alida Wingard
"Tunnel is not accessible. There is a sign in front that prohibits anyone from entering inside the tunnel. Can you go inside? Sure. But should you? According to the posted sign, NO. I'm assuming for safety reasons they do not want people going inside the tunnel. It is dark inside the tunnel and looks like it could present some issues for those who aren't prepared or who might have issues with mobility. It would've been kind of cool to walk through to the other side, however we did obey the sign and just took pictures from the entrance. Lots of places to explore or walk around and check out in this area as opposed to potentially injuring yourself to go into a tunnel that might present dangers due to the conditions inside. That's my opinion (speaking from a medical professional standpoint as well), it is best to stay safe and obey the signs."
Aubrey Freeze
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Turn Hole Tunnel is located within Lehigh Gorge State Park. Access is often via the D&L Trail, which can be reached from trailheads near Jim Thorpe. Some visitors access it by following the train tracks, but be extremely cautious.
Parking is available at trailheads for the D&L Trail, such as near the Glen Onoko Falls area. From there, you can walk to the tunnel.
Yes, the D&L Trail extends from Jim Thorpe and allows access to the gorge area where the tunnel is located. It's a scenic walk, but be prepared for the distance.
The D&L Trail is generally well-maintained, but the terrain around the tunnel can be uneven. Wear appropriate footwear.
Many visitors enjoy walking through the tunnel (if safe and permitted) or taking photos from the entrance. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Special train also passes by.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Turn Hole Tunnel is located within Lehigh Gorge State Park, which generally does not require an entrance fee. However, specific access points or associated activities might have costs.
As an outdoor natural feature within a state park, there are no strict opening or closing hours. However, visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and visibility.
No Trespassing signs are posted due to safety concerns. While some visitors enter, it's advised to obey the signs and avoid potential hazards inside.
Officially, 'No Trespassing' signs prohibit entry for safety reasons. It's best to admire the tunnel from the entrance.
Access to the D&L Trail itself is typically free. Parking at trailheads may have associated fees depending on the specific location.
📸 📸 Photography
Daylight hours offer the best natural light. Sunny days can make the interior brighter than expected, but a flashlight can add dramatic effect.
A flashlight is highly recommended for interior shots. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the tunnel's scale.
If you choose to enter despite the signs, the dark interior contrasted with the light at the ends can create striking images.
Yes, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Special train passes through the area, offering unique photo opportunities of the tunnel from a different perspective.
Experiment with shots from the entrance looking in, and from inside looking out towards the river. The surrounding gorge also offers scenic backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families: Stick to the marked trails, bring plenty of water and snacks, and ensure children wear appropriate footwear. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Special train ride is a fantastic alternative for experiencing the gorge's beauty without venturing into potentially unsafe areas.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Tips for hikers: Check trail conditions before you go, especially after inclement weather. Be prepared for varied terrain and always carry a map and navigation tools. The Lehigh Gorge State Park offers numerous other trails and viewpoints to explore, making it a great destination for a full day of outdoor activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Significance
While no longer in active use for trains, the tunnel continues to capture the imagination of visitors. It's a popular spot for those interested in urban exploration and industrial archaeology. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Special train still passes by, offering a fleeting glimpse of the tunnel as it once served its purpose.
It's important to note that the tunnel is officially closed to the public due to safety concerns. 'No Trespassing' signs are prominently displayed, urging visitors to respect the boundaries and prioritize their safety.
Exploring Safely and Responsibly
For those who choose to explore the vicinity, a flashlight is highly recommended, even on a sunny day, to navigate the entrance area and any accessible parts. Sturdy footwear is also crucial, as the terrain can be rough. Remember that the area around the tunnel drops off sharply to the river, so exercise caution.
When visiting Lehigh Gorge State Park, remember to tread lightly and leave no trace. The beauty of this area is best preserved when visitors act responsibly. Consider enjoying the tunnel from the designated trails and viewpoints, appreciating its historical significance without compromising your safety or the integrity of the site.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit