Natural Tunnel Park Adventure (A 2020 Throwback!)
Hi friends — Amber here!
Since we can’t get out on the trails right now, Mom and I are sharing some of our lost adventures, starting with one of my favorites from 2020: Natural Tunnel State Park in Virginia.
Hitting the Trail
When Mom first said we were going to see a “natural tunnel,” I didn’t know what that meant — but I was ready to find out. We started on a wooded trail where the air smelled like leaves and adventure. I even spotted turkeys and deer along the way, which made the hike extra exciting.
Overlooks and Big Views
We stopped at a couple of overlooks (or “Over Looks,” as the signs said). I didn’t see a tunnel yet, but the views were beautiful, and I loved sniffing the breeze while Mom took pictures.
Finding the Tunnel
Eventually we reached a paved trail with a fence, and that’s when I saw it — the tunnel. And wow… it was huge. Way bigger than I imagined. I wanted to go inside so badly, but Mom said we had to stay on the trail. I still stared at it for a long time, trying to figure out how something that big could be natural.
Creek Time
Before heading back, we found a little creek near the tunnel. You know I had to splash in it. Cold water, happy paws — the perfect ending to a big adventure.
Heading Home
After a full day of exploring, we made our way back to the car. I was tired, muddy, and completely happy. Natural Tunnel was one of my favorite 2020 hikes, and I’m so glad we get to share it again.
🐾 Memory Highlights from This Adventure
- First time seeing a “natural tunnel” — and realizing it was WAY bigger than I imagined.
- Wildlife watch: I spotted turkeys and deer before Mama even saw them.
- Two beautiful overlooks where the wind smelled like leaves, water, and adventure.
- The big reveal: walking down the paved trail and finally seeing the massive tunnel.
- Creek splash time — cold water, happy paws, perfect ending.
- 2020 throwback magic: one of the hikes we lost when the website went down, now finally back where it belongs.
🌟 Amber’s Trail Rating: Natural Tunnel State Park (Virginia)
🐾 Sniffability: 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ — So many wildlife scents and forest smells. A very good day for a curious pittie nose.
🐾 Scenery: 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 — Big overlooks, dramatic cliffs, and that massive tunnel. Total wow factor.
🐾 Dog‑Friendly Vibes: 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ — Plenty of space, good footing, and a creek to cool off in.
🐾 Trail Difficulty: 🐾🐾☆☆☆ — Mostly easy with a few moderate sections. Great for casual hikers and energetic pups.
🐾 Water Access: 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ — The creek near the tunnel is perfect for splashing and cooling down.
🐾 Overall Adventure Score: 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 — A must‑do hike. Unique, beautiful, and full of good memories.
Amber’s Final Word: “If you like big views, cool smells, and tunnels that make you feel tiny, this one’s for you.”
