Located in Walhalla, South Carolina, Stumphouse Tunnel offers visitors a unique combination of history, engineering, and natural beauty.
This unfinished railroad tunnel is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and provides a fascinating look at mid-19th century infrastructure and the determination of a nation on the brink of modernization.
Here’s everything you need to know about its history, what to see, and how to visit this historic landmark.
A Brief History of Stumphouse Tunnel
Construction on Stumphouse Tunnel began in the 1850s as part of an ambitious project to create a rail line connecting Charleston to Knoxville, Tennessee. This line, known as the Blue Ridge Railroad, was intended to bypass the Appalachian Mountains, making trade and travel more efficient. The tunnel, named for nearby Stumphouse Mountain, was planned to stretch 5,863 feet through solid granite.
The work was grueling and relied heavily on immigrant labor, particularly Irish workers. They used black powder, hand drills, and brute force to carve out the granite. By 1859, workers had managed to excavate just over 4,000 feet before funding dried up. The outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 sealed its fate, and the project was abandoned, leaving Stumphouse Tunnel incomplete.
Today, the tunnel stands as a testament to the engineering challenges of the era and remains a unique historical site.
Visiting Stumphouse Tunnel
Stumphouse Tunnel is located at 125 Stumphouse Tunnel Road, Walhalla, SC 29691, about 7 miles northwest of Walhalla on Highway 28. It is easily accessible by car, with clear signage leading to the site. The tunnel is part of Stumphouse Park, which also includes Issaqueena Falls, a picturesque waterfall located just a short walk from the tunnel.
Parking is available at the park, and a small fee of $5 per vehicle helps maintain the site. Once you arrive, you can explore the tunnel and surrounding areas on foot.
What to See and Do
1. Explore the Tunnel Itself The tunnel is partially open to visitors, extending about 1,617 feet into the mountain before being blocked off for safety. Walking inside, you’ll immediately notice the cool, damp air and the rugged, unfinished walls. The acoustics and darkness create an otherworldly atmosphere. Flashlights or headlamps are highly recommended, as there is no lighting inside.
2. Issaqueena Falls Adjacent to the tunnel is Issaqueena Falls, a beautiful cascading waterfall named after a legendary Native American woman who supposedly leaped from the falls to escape pursuers. A short, well-marked trail leads to a viewing platform for the falls, and adventurous visitors can climb down to the base for a closer look.
3. Picnic Areas and Hiking Trails The park surrounding Stumphouse Tunnel features picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal amidst the natural scenery. There are also several hiking trails in the vicinity, offering opportunities to explore the surrounding forest and its diverse flora and fauna.
4. Learn About the Tunnel’s Unique Role in History The tunnel’s unique temperature and humidity make it an ideal environment for aging blue cheese. In the 1940s, Clemson University used the tunnel to perfect their blue cheese-making process. Although they no longer use the tunnel, this historical quirk remains a fascinating footnote.
Tips for Your Visit
- Bring a Flashlight: The interior of the tunnel is dark, and the ground can be uneven and slippery.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for walking inside the tunnel and exploring the falls.
- Check the Weather: The area can be muddy after rain, so plan accordingly.
- Respect the Environment: The tunnel and surrounding park are part of South Carolina’s natural and historical heritage. Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep it pristine.
How to Get There
From Walhalla, take Highway 28 North for about 7 miles. The entrance to Stumphouse Park is clearly marked on the left side of the road. GPS coordinates for the site are 34.8056° N, 83.1131° W. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Greenville, SC, and 2.5 hours from Atlanta, GA, making it a perfect day trip destination.
Why Visit Stumphouse Tunnel?
Stumphouse Tunnel is more than just an abandoned piece of infrastructure; it’s a window into a time when determination and ingenuity were pushing America forward. The combination of its historical significance, natural beauty, and accessibility makes it a must-see destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and families alike. Whether you’re marveling at its engineering, enjoying the tranquility of Issaqueena Falls, or simply taking in the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a visit to Stumphouse Tunnel is an unforgettable experience.