Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium

Winston Tunnel State Natural Area

2641 S. Blackjack Rd., Galena, IL 61036

Hiking & Trails

230 acres for public hunting, hiking, nature viewing and an historic railroad tunnel.

While the tunnel itself has been walled off for years now, the entrance and walk along the tracks is beautiful. The trails are mostly either mowed grass or herd path along the way to the tunnel. Half way through the hike, the path drops right onto the old train tracks and heads to the tunnel.

The Winston Tunnel was built in 1888 for the Minnesota and Northwestern Railroad, a line that ran from Chicago to Minneapolis, Omaha and Kansas City.

This is a two-mile hike over some steep terrain that takes about 2 hours. Add extra time for pictures! Open All Year and pet-friendly.

What's happening nearby...

Winter Carnival Weekend at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa •  Feb 14 – Feb 17 @ 8AM

Embrace the spirit of winter at Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa's Annual Winter Carnival, a four-day celebration of all things snow, ice, and frost.

Read more about Winter Carnival Weekend at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

Chocolate Lovers Stroll

Galena's Historic Main Street  •  Feb 15 @ 12noon

Unlock the sweetest side of Galena with the Annual Chocolate Lovers Stroll!

Read more about Chocolate Lovers Stroll

Big Nut & Little Nut Open

Chestnut Mountain Resort •  Mar 01 @ 11AM

An exciting freestyle snowboard and ski competition!

Read more about Big Nut & Little Nut Open

You might also be interested...

Long Hollow Canopy Tours

Galena

At Long Hollow Canopy Tours, every day is an adventure!

Read more about Long Hollow Canopy Tours

Galena River Trail

Galena

A scenic 8.8 mile (one way) trail along the Galena River, just minutes from downtown Galena.

Read more about Galena River Trail

Hoof It Goat Treks

Galena

Guided walking tours with goats through native prairies and forest.

Read more about Hoof It Goat Treks

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.