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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...

General Grant's Home Front Reenactment & Encampment

Depot Park  •  Apr 25 – Apr 26 @ 9AM

Experience life in the 1860s through a Living History Encampment and Civil War Battle.

Read more about General Grant's Home Front Reenactment & Encampment

The Haunted Galena Conference

DeSoto House Hotel •  May 01 – May 03 @ 4PM

Embrace the Darkness with Haunted Galena Tour Company at the haunted DeSoto House Hotel!

Read more about The Haunted Galena Conference

Galena Main Street Sidewalk Sale

Galena's Historic Main Street •  May 08 – May 10 @ 9:30AM

It's time to shake off the winter blues and welcome the warmth of spring with a shopping spree on Main Street! The merchants are clearing out…

Read more about Galena Main Street Sidewalk Sale

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