As you travel across North America, you’ll come across various tunnels that have been expertly excavated through massive mountains, often built to simplify travel by eliminating the need for winding roads over or around these natural barriers. In contrast, South Carolina lacks the typical winding tunnels found elsewhere. Nevertheless, this state is home to a hidden gem—an intriguing historic tunnel that remains largely under the radar.
The Stumphouse Mountain Tunnel, situated near Walhalla, is rich in history and offers a glimpse into the past.
Carved from solid blue granite over a century and a half ago, this tunnel in South Carolina has transformed into a scenic attraction within a park. It’s an impressive structure, offering both a striking visual and a refreshing atmosphere.
You have the opportunity to explore and stroll through a site steeped in history, where the solid walls tell tales of the past. Back in the 1950s, Clemson University utilized part of the tunnel for the unique purpose of aging cheese, and visitors can still see remnants of this fascinating activity. You’ll enjoy uncovering the secrets of this extraordinary destination. The hiking trail leading to Stumphouse Tunnel stands out as one of South Carolina’s most distinctive paths.
As noted in the 1970 application for the National Register of Historic Places, the tunnel complex spans 40 acres of land and includes an additional 2 acres of water.
The accessible portion of the tunnel stretches for 1,617 feet, presenting visitors with a unique opportunity to walk through its damp interior, which occasionally features standing water. The tunnel boasts a height of 25 feet and a width of 17 feet.
The construction of this notable tunnel in South Carolina commenced in the 1850s, aimed at creating a network of rail lines and tunnels across four states to link the South Carolina coast to Tennessee. However, the ambitious project faced financial difficulties, ultimately leading to its suspension. Subsequent efforts to revive the initiative were unsuccessful.
At the peak of the tunnel construction, a small settlement emerged atop the mountain, known as “Tunnel Hill.” By the year 1858, the town had a population of 1,232 residents. Today, however, only a few traces of Tunnel Hill can be found, such as remnants of a foundation from one of its former buildings. In 1970, when the site was nominated for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places, the surviving features of Tunnel Hill were noted to include an occasional headstone, some building remains, and a footpath that leads to the tunnel itself. Join us for a brief virtual walking tour of this historic site, home to South Carolina’s ONLY tunnel—it’s a remarkable experience!
The Stumphouse Mountain Tunnel in South Carolina was added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 7, 1971. If you can’t make it there in person, you can experience the site through a virtual walking tour and a collection of photos showcasing the tunnel.
Have you had the chance to explore Stumphouse Mountain Tunnel, located just 7 miles west of Walhalla on Highway 28? The park is open to visitors every day from 10 a.m. until sunset. Although camping is not permitted, you can enjoy a cozy overnight stay at the delightful Lofts Over Main in Walhalla.
What historic sites do you cherish in South Carolina? We’d love to hear your favorites in the comments section below.