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...
40th Annual Nouveau Parade & Celebration
Galena Cellars Wine Tasting Room • Nov 22 @ 11AM
Galena Cellars celebrates the release of the 2024 Nouveau wine - The 40th Annual Celebration!
Read more about 40th Annual Nouveau Parade & Celebration
Galena Holiday Kickoff!
Nov 30 @ 5PM
Join in welcoming Santa to town to kick off the holiday season in Galena!
Read more about Galena Holiday Kickoff!
Galena Holidaze Festival
Green Street Plaza • Dec 07 @ 11PM
The Galena Holidaze Festival is bringing the magic of Christmastime to Galena, Illinois.
Read more about Galena Holidaze FestivalYou might also be interested...
Buehler Preserve
Galena
Nature preserve just steps away from downtown Galena.
Read more about Buehler Preserve
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
Tapley Woods State Natural Area
Galena
A quiet, wooded spot along between Elizabeth and Galena.
Read more about Tapley Woods State Natural Area