State Parks and National Parks

Natural Tunnel State Park

Natural Tunnel State Park features beautiful vistas and breath taking views. Declared the “Eighth Wonder of the World” by famous statesman William Jennings Bryan in the 1880s, Natural Tunnel is truly a natural wonder.

This natural cave formation, believed to be 1 million years old, has fascinated explorers for centuries.

The 850-foot-long tunnel is the centerpiece of the 950-acre state park in southwest Virginia. In places, its walls rise to heights of 400 feet. Fossils are embedded in its walls.

Coal trains still use the tracks through the Natural Tunnel. Coal from the area supplies power plants all across the eastern United States.

A chairlift carries visitors to the tunnel's natural amphitheater, 230 feet down into the gorge.

Visitors also may hike seven short walking trails, including Lover's Leap, Tunnel Hill, Gorge Ridge, and a segment of the Virginia Wildlife and Birding Trail.

A campground offers 18 campsites with electric and water hookups and four standard tent sites.

The Cove Ridge Center, a multi-use facility with overnight lodging, is a great setting for any gathering.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Courtesy of Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.