Shared by Rachel Blevins, as Guest Blogger.

Once a year, park guests get a unique experience when they visit Natural Tunnel State Park on Railroad Day.

On the third Saturday in July, park visitors are allowed to walk through the tunnel. Normally, the awe-inspiring view is only observed from a platform.

For many locals, this is a nostalgic day. One common phrase heard throughout the day is “I remember when”, referring to when visitors were allowed access into the tunnel through the year. It wasn’t until the chairlift was installed that the inside of the tunnel was closed off to the public.

Railroad Day is a way to bring back memories and a great way to create new memories and this year it's on July 21. 

Norfolk Southern will have an engine on display at the south portal of the tunnel  

The Annual Railroad Day allows the opportunity to explore the tunnel from the inside

Ranger Park Redfox invites you to take the chairlift down to the tunnel to explore

For years, the railroad has played a vital role in the economics and history of the area. The park and Norfolk Southern Corporation are collaborating to share this natural wonder and promote railroad safety.

Guests are welcome to go to the tunnel, either by foot or by chairlift. Due to visitor safety issues, the tunnel has been closed to foot-traffic for the past several years; however, for this event only, a waiver has been obtained that will allow visitors to explore the tunnel. This is, indeed, a rare opportunity. The train schedule has been adjusted so no trains will actually be passing through the tunnel during the event.

The tunnel will be open to pedestrians

Enjoy this rare opportunity, no trains will be coming through and visitors can safely enjoy the tunnel for the day.

Railroad Day is fun and exciting for all. Other activities include guided tours of the tunnel. At the Carter Cabin, Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association Historical Interpreters and Norfolk Southern’s Operation Life Saver representatives will be giving out Railroad Safety information. Author Tony Scales will be available with his book about Natural Tunnel.

Bring a camera and enjoy this nostalgic day

Local craft vendors will also be on hand, along with model railroaders from Virginia Beach. Food and light refreshments will be available for purchase on site. 

Parking is $4 per vehicle and admission is free. The chairlift is $4 per person for a round trip ticket. For a one-way ticket the cost is $3 per person; children three or younger ride free. Parking for this event will take place in the picnic area.

Drive time: Northern Virginia, eight hours; Richmond, six hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, eight to nine hours; Roanoke, three and a half hours; Knoxville, Tenn., one and a half hours; Winston-Salem, N.C., three hours; Lexington, Ky., two and a half hours. For Google Map directions, click here.

For more information about Railroad Day at Natural Tunnel State Park, please contact the park office at (276) 940-2674 or email here.