Stump House Tunnel

Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, the Stumphouse Tunnel stands as a testament to ambitious engineering and a fascinating piece of history. Originally conceived in 1835 by Charleston residents eager to forge a new path for the Blue Ridge Railroad, this tunnel aimed to connect Charleston directly to the Ohio River valley, circumventing the long journey around the mountains through Georgia and Tennessee.
 

The Journey of Construction:
The grand plan, set in motion in the late 1850s, was to carve a 13-mile tunnel through the rugged terrain of the Blue Ridge Mountains, spanning South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Progress went smoothly through much of South Carolina until the crew reached the mountains near Walhalla in Oconee County. It was here that the Stumphouse Tunnel, along with three other tunnels, was set to be constructed.
 

The Stumphouse Tunnel project officially began in 1856, with the George Collyer Company of London employing a large workforce of Irish immigrants for the job. Many workers set up residence atop Stumphouse Mountain in an area aptly named Tunnel Hill. By 1859, however, the State of South Carolina had invested over a million dollars into the project and decided to halt further funding, leaving the tunnel incomplete at 1,617 feet of its planned 5,863 feet.
 

Today, on the other side of the mountain where the tunnel was meant to end, you can find a mound of earth beneath Crystal Lake, just west of Highway 28 – a silent reminder of what could have been.
 

Connecting Tunnels and Future Use:
The Stumphouse Tunnel was part of a larger network of tunnels, including the Middle Tunnel and Saddle Tunnel. All three were connected by terrain at railroad grade. While the Middle Tunnel was successfully completed, it partially collapsed and was sealed off in the mid-1900s. Saddle Tunnel, too, was partially built but now lies mostly submerged under a small lake.

Fast forward to the 1950s, and the Stumphouse Tunnel found a new lease of life as a unique location for Clemson University to cultivate their famous blue cheese. This continued until the 1970s when the operation was moved to more controlled environments.
 

Visiting Stumphouse Tunnel Today:
Operated as a public park by the city of Walhalla, alongside the enchanting Isaqueena Falls, Stumphouse Tunnel welcomes visitors daily, except on Christmas Day and during inclement weather, from 10am until 5pm. Inside, the tunnel maintains a constant temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) and 85% humidity. The structure remains remarkably intact, with minimal signs of wear, providing a safe and fascinating excursion just a few yards from a convenient gravel parking lot.
 

Fun Facts and Nearby Attractions:
 

The tunnel boasts a rich history, being dug with hand tools prior to the Civil War.
Around 1/4 mile of the tunnel is open for public exploration.
The site is perfect for family outings.

Constant 50-degree temperatures make for a cool retreat year-round.
Clemson University’s blue cheese legacy began here.

The scenic Isaqueena Falls is just a short walk or drive away, with a viewing platform just 1/4 mile from the parking lot. Though there is a trail to the base of the falls, it is quite treacherous and not recommended.

The Stumphouse Passage of the Palmetto Trail starts in the park, connecting you to a 500-mile trail system across South Carolina.

The Blue Ridge Railroad hiking trailhead is located at the top of the Isaqueena Falls parking lot, offering 2.5 miles of enjoyable hiking with stunning views.

Don't miss the beautiful Yellow Branch Falls, a 45-minute hike from a free parking area on the opposite side of Hwy. 28.

Conclusion:
With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and variety of activities, Stumphouse Tunnel Park is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique day out with the family, this park has something for everyone. Explore the tunnel, take a hike, or simply enjoy the cool, constant temperature of this historical wonder – the choice is yours!

Address: Stumphouse Tunnel Rd, Walhalla, SC 29691
Hours: 
Monday    8:30 AM–8 PM
Tuesday    8:30 AM–8 PM
Wednesday    8:30 AM–8 PM
Thursday    8:30 AM–8 PM
Friday    8:30 AM–8 PM
Saturday    8:30 AM–8 PM
Sunday    8:30 AM–8 PM

Phone: (864) 638-4343
Opened: 1853
Coordinates: 34°48′38.39″N 83°07′25.32″W / 34.8106639°N 83.1237000°W