The Turn Hole Tunnel, located near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, was constructed by the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company. It was a significant part of the Lehigh and Susquehanna RR main line until 1912, later serving as a passing siding for many years.
Originally part of the Central Railroad of New Jersey’s (CNJ) main line, the tunnel was completed in 1866 and fell into disrepair by 1910 and was ultimately condemned. A new route was constructed, bypassing the tunnel in 1912. However, the tunnel’s tracks were maintained for passing until 1956 when they were finally abandoned.
A view from inside the tunnel looking towards the safety railing near the river.Photo byKathleen Butler
A view from inside the tunnel when it was still open to visitors.Photo byKathleen Butler
Despite its abandonment, the tunnel remains mostly intact, with remnants of its double tracks still visible and the piers of the old bridge still stand in the water below.
Some railroad ties remained.Photo byKathleen Butler
It was a notable attraction in Lehigh Gorge State Park. Visitors to the tunnel could enter and walk to the end where a safety railing is located and see views of the Lehigh River.