14 Tunnels to Explore in United States

Argo Gold Mine & Mill is a national historic site located about 45 minutes from Denver. featuring an intact gold mill built at the entrance of the Argo Tunnel. The tunnel was built between 1893 and 1910 to drain the gold mines in Virginia Canyon, Gilpin Gulch, Russell Gulch, Quartz Hill, Nevadaville, and Central City and allow easier ore removal. It began in 1893 with the construction of the Argo Tunnel. After 17 years it reached Central City, about 4.5 miles away.

Carlin Tunnel is a historic transportation route. The tunnel was constructed in the early 20th century as part of the Western Pacific Railroad, which was a crucial transportation link for the region's mining industry.The tunnel is over 4,000 feet in length and was built through the Carlin Trend, which is a major gold-mining district in Nevada. The tunnel was constructed to provide a more direct route for transporting ore from the mines to the smelters.

Cave Rock is a unique geological formation located in Douglas County, Nevada, which offers spectacular views of Lake Tahoe. It is a 3-million-year-old volcanic dike that rises 3,500 feet above sea level and plunges 1,000 feet to the lake's depths, making it an exceptionally popular destination for hikers, rock climbers, and tourists.The rock derives its name from a natural cave that boaters would pass through before the construction of the highway tunnel.

The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel is an engineering marvel that connects the United States and Canada. Its impressive 1.5 miles in length may not sound like much, but when you factor in the distance underneath the Detroit River, it becomes quite impressive. It's like driving through a secret passageway that takes you from one country to another. And let's not forget all the amazing sights you get to see along the way, like the stunning views of the Detroit skyline and Windsor's riverfront parks.

The Indianapolis Catacombs are a hidden and historically significant underground network of tunnels and chambers beneath the city's streets. Originally quarried in the mid-19th century for limestone, which was used in the construction of many of Indianapolis' early buildings, the catacombs remain a lesser-known but fascinating part of the city's history.

Missouri's Katy Trail is a marvel of nature and history that's definitely worth experiencing. And if you're looking for a tunnel with a little extra character, the Rocheport Tunnel is the way to go. As you bike or hike through the dimly lit tunnel, you can't help but feel a sense of adventure – but don't worry, it's perfectly safe! Plus, the tunnel's graffiti-covered walls are like a modern twist on ancient cave paintings. Honestly, it's hard to find a more unique and intriguing tunnel anywhere.

The Krog Street Tunnel is an iconic destination known for its street art, vibrant energy, and eclectic vibe. Located in the Inman Park district near the Old Fourth Ward, the tunnel provides a cultural touchstone for locals and visitors alike. Visitors can explore many different murals that line nearly every inch of the tunnel – it's estimated that there are almost 150 works of public art, including 2D and 3D pieces from celebrated local artists.

The Krog Street Tunnel is an iconic local landmark. Located near Atlanta's historic Inman Park, the tunnel is a major public transportation route, as well as a pedestrian shortcut and popular photo opp. With its high arches and covered walls that are painted regularly by both professional and amateur muralists, it has also become an outdoor art gallery recognized worldwide.

Moonville Tunnel, located in Vinton County, Ohio, is a historic and eerie site that has captured the imagination of locals, ghost hunters, and curious visitors for many years. This abandoned railroad tunnel, shrouded in legends and tales of paranormal activity, adds an element of mystery and intrigue to the region's history.

The Mule Pass tunnel, Believed to be the longest tunnel in Arizona. Locals call it "The Time Tunnel". Mule Pass Tunnel created a new gateway into Bisbee. It also cut 10 minutes off the drive over the 6,030-foot-high pass on US 80 into the southeastern Arizona mining town. The road is now known as State Route 80, and the Highway Department is now the Arizona Department of Transportation.

Nada Tunnel, located in the Red River Gorge Geological Area of Kentucky, is a unique and historic tunnel carved into the natural rock formations of the area.

Stumphouse Tunnel, located in Oconee County, South Carolina, is a fascinating historical landmark and engineering marvel that offers visitors a glimpse into the ambitious but ultimately abandoned Blue Ridge Railroad project of the mid-19th century. This tunnel is a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and innovation, making it a compelling destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and curious travelers.

The Sutro Tunnel, is more than just a creepy, abandoned mine shaft. Constructed in the late 1800s, the tunnel was built for the sole purpose of draining water from the underground mines in the area. But let me tell you, this bad boy was a feat of engineering. It stretches for over three miles and is wide enough for miners and their equipment to travel through. And if you thought that was impressive, get this: the tunnel was equipped with a steam-powered pumping system.

The Western & Atlantic Railroad Tunnel is a railroad tunnel built in 1850, the tunnel is 0.75 miles long and has become a National Historic Landmark. An amazing feat of engineering during that era, the tunnel runs beneath the crest of a ridge that raised 540 feet above its entrance in Chattanooga. It was really quite a dangerous venture to bore through solid rock but crews were able to get it done quickly and safely allowing railroad traffic to continue under the mountain.