Skip to main content
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...

General Grant's Home Front Reenactment & Encampment

Depot Park  •  Apr 26 – Apr 27 @ 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

Galena Main Street Sidewalk Sale

Galena's Historic Main Street •  May 09 – May 11 @ 9:30AM

It's time to shake off the winter blues and welcome the warmth of spring with a shopping spree on Main Street! The merchants are clearing out…

Read more about Galena Main Street Sidewalk Sale

Galena Sky Trail Races

Chestnut Mountain Resort •  May 17 @ 8AM

Looped course that brings you back to a jammin' party every time. DJ, music, and fun after party! There will be prizes for the after party.…

Read more about Galena Sky Trail Races

You might also be interested...

Hoof It Goat Treks

Galena

Guided walking tours with goats through native prairies and forest.

Read more about Hoof It Goat Treks

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

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

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