These Forgotten Colorado Tunnels Are a Haunting Portal Into the State’s Railroad Past

Have you ever wanted to drive your car straight into a mountain? In central Colorado, there’s a place where you can do just that, following a path carved out of solid rock over a century ago. It’s a journey back in time, a rugged adventure that takes you through dark, hand-hewn passages where locomotives once chugged along, hauling ore from the mountains.

This isn’t your typical scenic drive. It’s an unpaved, high-clearance adventure that follows the historic Midland Railroad grade. As you navigate the winding dirt road, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Arkansas River Valley below. The real thrill, however, comes when the road disappears into the mountainside, plunging you into cool, dark tunnels that feel like a portal to another era.

You’re exploring the incredible Midland Tunnels just outside of Buena Vista. This stretch of County Road 371 is a free, public-access piece of living history, offering a unique off-road experience that combines stunning natural beauty with fascinating railroad lore. It’s a must-do for anyone with an adventurous spirit and a capable vehicle.

What We Love

The Tunnels Themselves

The main event, of course, is driving through the tunnels. There are four of them along this short stretch of road, each one a testament to the grit of late 19th-century railroad builders. As you enter, the temperature drops, the light fades, and your headlights cut a path through the darkness, illuminating the rough, chiseled rock walls.

It’s a genuinely cool experience, feeling the echo of your engine where steam locomotives once roared. Peeking out the other side, you’re greeted by another spectacular Colorado vista. It’s a simple but unforgettable thrill that makes you feel like a true explorer.

Stunning Scenery

The tunnels might be the main attraction, but the views are a very close second. The road clings to the side of the canyon, offering expansive panoramas of the Arkansas River and the surrounding mountain ranges. You’ll want to pull over several times just to soak it all in and snap a few photos.

The combination of rugged cliffs, the winding river below, and the vast Colorado sky is simply spectacular. Whether you’re there in the green of summer or when the aspens turn gold in the fall, the landscape is a constant source of awe. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a nature lover’s dream.

A Dose of History

You’re not just on any old dirt road; you’re tracing the path of the Colorado Midland Railway, a pioneering standard-gauge line that operated from 1887 to 1918. This was a vital artery for the region’s mining industry, and imagining the challenges of building and running a railroad through this terrain is mind-boggling.

Along the way, you can see remnants of the old railroad grade and imagine the steam trains chugging along the cliffs. It adds a whole other layer of appreciation to the drive. You’re literally driving through a piece of Colorado’s rich industrial history, making the adventure both scenic and educational.

Easy Off-Road Fun

If you’re looking for an introduction to off-roading that isn’t too extreme, this is the perfect spot. While a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, you don’t need a heavily modified rock-crawler to enjoy this trail. It’s a great way to get off the pavement and experience the backcountry without tackling a super technical route.

The road is wide enough in most places for vehicles to pass, and the drive itself is relatively short, making it an easy and accessible adventure for a morning or afternoon. It’s the kind of fun that gives you a taste of the 4×4 lifestyle and leaves you wanting more.

Proximity to Buena Vista

One of the best parts about the Midland Tunnels is how close they are to the charming town of Buena Vista. You can spend the morning on this scenic drive and be back in town for a delicious lunch at a local brewery or cafe by early afternoon. It’s the perfect half-day excursion.

This convenience means you can easily fit the tunnel drive into a larger itinerary of exploring the Arkansas River Valley. After your off-road adventure, you can go rafting, hiking, or just relax by the river. It’s an amazing and easy-to-access addition to any trip to the area.

Atmosphere & Setting

The vibe here is pure, unadulterated Colorado adventure. It’s quiet, rugged, and feels wonderfully remote, even though you’re just a few miles from town. The air is crisp, and the only sounds you’ll hear are the crunch of gravel under your tires, the wind whistling through the canyon, and the occasional bird call. It’s a place that encourages you to slow down and just be present in the magnificent natural surroundings.

The setting is dramatic and awe-inspiring. You’re perched on a narrow shelf road carved into a steep canyon wall, with the river far below and towering peaks all around. The raw, rocky landscape, punctuated by the dark, mysterious tunnels, creates a sense of exploration and discovery. It feels less like a tourist spot and more like a genuine backcountry secret you’ve been let in on.

Value (Is It Worth It?)

It doesn’t get any better than this—the Midland Tunnels are completely free to access! As part of the county road system, there are no entry fees, no tickets, and no reservations required. Your only cost is the gas to get there, making this one of the best value-for-adventure activities in the entire state. You get million-dollar views and a unique historical experience for absolutely nothing.

Is it worth it? A thousand times, yes. For the price of a short drive, you get a memorable off-road journey, a fascinating history lesson, and some of the most beautiful scenery in the Rockies. It’s an experience that feels special and authentic, providing a huge return in fun and memories for zero financial investment. It’s an absolute must-do if you’re anywhere near Buena Vista.

Other Considerations

Vehicle Choice: A high-clearance vehicle like an SUV or truck is strongly recommended. While some have managed in AWD cars, the road can be rocky and rutted. 4WD is helpful but not always necessary when the road is dry.

Road Conditions: This is an unpaved mountain road. It can be impassable in winter or after heavy rain due to snow, ice, or mud. Always check conditions before you go, especially in the shoulder seasons.

Driving Etiquette: The road is narrow in spots. Drive slowly, be prepared to yield to oncoming traffic, and use caution around blind corners. Uphill traffic generally has the right of way.

No Facilities: There are no restrooms, water fountains, or trash cans along the route. Plan accordingly and be sure to pack out everything you pack in.

Time of Day: The lighting for photos is often best in the morning or late afternoon. Driving during midday can create harsh shadows, especially when entering and exiting the dark tunnels.

So next time you’re looking for a quick and incredibly scenic adventure, point your vehicle towards County Road 371. The Midland Tunnels offer a perfect blend of history, nature, and off-road fun that’s hard to beat. It’s a simple drive, but one that will stick with you long after you’ve returned to the pavement.

It’s a fantastic way to connect with Colorado’s past while enjoying its stunning present. Just roll down your windows, take it slow, and enjoy the unique thrill of driving through a mountain. You’ll be glad you did!