Bike the Tunnel Hill State Trail

The 9.3 (one way) section of the 44.5 mile that begins at the Tunnel Hill access point and travels south to Vienna, Illinois is one of the most picturesque stretches of Southern Illinois. 

The former Norfolk Southern Railroad line connects to many other popular trails like the River to River Trail and the Trail of Tears. 

As you start out southward from the site office at Vienna you get a view of rolling fields through the trees. The trail is packed limestone and a fairly easy path to bike or hike along. Early into the ride the first of many bridges presents itself. Continuing on you will begin to see wetlands, then streams and even a little whitewater at times will present itself. 

There are also mile markers along the trail.

In this section of the greater trail, you will also pass by ghost towns and even a couple of waterfalls and cascades. 

Many people only traverse the 9.3 Tunnel Hill - Vienna piece of the trail, but if you want to experience the full trail begin near Karnak, Illinois and follow northeast to Harrisburg to complete the full trail. Use the buddy system with a vehicle to retrieve you at either end of the trail, otherwise you must return the way you came.