The Austinville Tunnel is 135 feet long. The tunnel were dug out without the use of explosives, and the rough cut edges illustrate the grueling man labor involved in the task. Just through the other side of Austinville tunnel yellow chains hang now, during the days of the Railroad these would not have been chains. Instead they were long slender leather pieces around 2 feet in length. These pieces hung there as a warning system to any person(s) having to work a top the rail cars while in motion. If they got touched on the back, or brushed in the face this was a tale, tale sign of the train approaching a tunnel.
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New River Trail is a 57-mile linear park that follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The park parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles and passes through four counties and the city of Galax. The trail's gentle slope makes it great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike and ride horseback. The park's Foster Falls area offers canoe and bike rentals; boat launches; gift shops; and a horse arena. Fishing is popular, and primitive campsites are available in designated areas. The park's Hoover Mountain Biking Area is also popular with those seeking extra adventure. There are access points to the trail at Allisonia, Chestnut Yard, Cliffview, Dannelly Park (near Galax), Draper, Dora Junction (near Pulaski), Foster Falls, Fries, Galax, Gambetta, Hiwassee and Ivanhoe. Horse trailer parking is available at Allisonia, Austinville, Cliffview, Dora Junction, Draper, Fries, Ivanhoe and the Mark E. Hufeisen Horse Complex.
This cache is located within the boundaries of New River Trail State Park and placed with permission from Park Management. Parking fees apply, day searching only, please CITO and Leave No Trace