Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

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...

Galena St. Patrick's Day Celebration

Downtown Galena •  Mar 14 @ 11AM

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Galena, Illinois!

Read more about Galena St. Patrick's Day Celebration

Kiwanis River Trail Run

Galena River Trail •  Apr 18 @ 10AM

The Kiwanis Club of Galena invites you to sign up for their Annual Run with proceeds benefitting local organizations with supporting children and improving the quality…

Read more about Kiwanis River Trail Run

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

You might also be interested...

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

Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve

Galena

Featuring Native American archaeology, this preserve is situated on the scenic Mississippi River Bluffs.

Read more about Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve

Chestnut Mountain Resort - Outdoor Activities

Galena

Chestnut Mountain is a full-service, 120-unit resort situated eight miles southeast of Galena on a wooded palisade overlooking the Mississippi River. This resort offers an array…

Read more about Chestnut Mountain Resort - Outdoor Activities

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

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