The Blue Ridge Tunnel recently opened as a new and amazing attraction in Virginia by using a long-abandoned and almost forgotten feat of engineering. At the time of its opening in 1858, the railroad tunnel was the longest tunnel in America. Today it is owned by Nelson County, Virginia and operated with the help of the Blue Ridge Tunnel Foundation as a hiking trail.

“The Timeless Tunnel” exhibit at the Waynesboro Heritage Museum on Main Street in Waynesboro tells the story of the people who planned and built the tunnel along with their struggles and accomplishments. You will also learn the story of the tunnel’s abandonment and the decades-long work and dedication of local citizens to give it a new use for the 21st century.