The Railroad Tunnel Trail is a leisurely stroll on a railroad bed – sans the tracks – through five large tunnels with gorgeous views of Lake Mead along the hike. Originally just over four and a half miles roundtrip, the trail has now been extended to lead to Hoover Dam adding on just over a mile to make a total roundtrip of seven miles.
To get there drive along Highway 93 into Boulder City and turn left at Buchanan Blvd/Highway 93. After four miles turn left onto Lakeshore Scenic Drive. A parking area along with the trailhead is just past the Alan Bible Visitor Center on the right.
The trail starts out at the information kiosk at the parking lot and leads through a gate, which is usually open but if not it is easy to get around. Following a slight incline the trail cuts through some hills and offers great views of Lake Mead to the left. After a mile and a half will be the first tunnel with a view through to the other side and the second tunnel as well. These tunnels were blasted into the hillside for equipment transportation during the construction of Hoover Dam, and are quite daunting in size and length when you enter darkness.
While making your way through tunnels three and four you will notice some off shoot trails. These are nice to scramble around and explore, especially one just to the left before the fourth tunnel that leads to a viewpoint, but if you chose this hike for its ease of completion you might want to stick to the main path. Above the fifth tunnel there is a parking area with an overlook that people can access from the road to and from the Dam – scrambling up to here is a bit challenging, if you want to enjoy its view better to drive there.
Officially the trail ends after the fifth tunnel, at a gate with the sign “Property Boundary,” however now the path has been extended and the gate is open for passage. If you wish to continue the trail eventually leads to Hoover Dam parking. The extra length however adds on about two and a half miles to the roundtrip and requires a bit more of an incline on the way back up from Hoover Dam to the tunnels. Be sure to follow the trail signs, there currently is a hairpin turn that leads away from a construction site that often leaves the gate open, recently they have put up a “Danger” sign so it should be easy to spot.
Make your way back the way you came and enjoy the returning lakeside vistas. This trail is great for kids, dogs, bikes, and a sunset stroll year round, although you do not want to linger in the caves in the winter but they certainly offer a cool refuge if attempting the trail in the heat of the summer.
For further information: Lake Mead National Recreation Area or call (702) 293-8906
