Are you looking for a fun adventure for the entire family? Check out the Historic Railroad Trail overlooking the Boulder Basin area. The trail will take you and the family on an easy hiking adventure where you will see panoramic views of Lake Mead and take you through the historic railroad tunnels. According to the Lake Mead Recreation Area website, this “is the only remaining section of the Hoover Dam Railroad system that is not highly disturbed or underwater.”
The trail runs through the historic tunnels, which are approximately 300 feet long and 25 feet in diameter. The giant tunnels were designed to accommodate the large pieces of equipment being transported to the Hoover Dam. When these tunnels were in use, nine steam engines, four gas locomotives, and 71 people operated the system.
The Historic Railroad Trail offers families the opportunity to spend time outside (social distance friendly) with plenty of room to run around, get some exercise, and fresh air. These tunnels are a unique part of Boulder City’s history and offer you the opportunity to walk right through them. The trails are perfect for walking, biking, running, and even pushing a stroller around. Don’t forget to pack some snacks and plenty of water.
As you approach Tunnel 1, take a moment to look down on the right. You will see the concrete plugs taken out of the Hoover Dam to install the turbines down in the ravine. Tunnel 2 looks a bit different than the others due to an arson fire in 1990.
This trail is located near the Alan Bible Visitor Center. It is .3 miles past the Lake Mead Visitor Center sign, off to the right. Follow this link for additional information about the Railroad Tunnels Trail in Boulder City.
Please note: The exhibits and film at the visitor center are currently closed due to COVID-19; however, the park store is open Thursday - Monday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Keep watching Macaroni Kid Henderson-Boulder City, or click here to see when the visitor center reopens to the public.
