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This moderately difficult walk follows the bed of the railroad that was never completed—the American Civil War got in the way of SC Statesman John C. Calhoun's rail dream. They did get as far as starting to build three tunnels into the mountain, however, which added an interesting element to the hike. Be careful, though, the tunnels tend to seep water and a flashlight will come in handy.
About the Route
Leaving off from the southern end of the trail, which is the only access point for this trail, at Stumphouse Tunnel which is 25 feet high, 17 feet wide, and extends 1,617 feet into the mountain. Trail users can walk to the end of the tunnel but it doesn't go all the way through.
As the trail heads to the north, the trail meets its second tunnel just above Isaqueena Falls. The tunnel isn't located along the main trail, instead, trail users should see a spur trail to the left leading to the tunnel. The third tunnel, Saddleback, is not open and this marks the turn-around point on the trail. Trail users traveling along the whole trail must turn around and head back to the Saddleback Tunnel, making the whole trip 4 miles.
The Blue Ridge Railroad Historic Trail runs between Stumphouse Tunnel Rd. (Walhalla) and Saddle Tunnel (Walhalla).
Parking is available at Stumphouse Tunnel Rd., but without an official address.
Please see TrailLink Map for detailed directions.
Wanted to provide additional sets for anyone interested in this trail. This trail does NOT lead to the Stumphouse tunnel. Finding the trailhead was a challenge for us, so I want to provide details: Park in the Isaqueena Falls lot and walk across the little wood bridge from the lot toward the falls. As soon as you cross the bridge bear left and you'll see the trailhead sign. The beginning of the trail is TOUGH...narrow, steep uphill, lots of rocks and roots. Just push through that first part and the rest is easier. Character limit here won't let me post more, see TripAdvisor.
A little daunting at the start but well worth the climb. Next time through to the end.
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