The Hagerman Tunnel showcases the remains of a 2,161-foot railroad tunnel that was originally constructed in 1887 to allow the Colorado Midland Railroad to cross the Rocky Mountains' Continental Divide and connect the cities of Leadville, Glenwood Springs, and Aspen. The tunnel, which sits at an altitude of more than 11,500 feet, was named in honor of railroad official John James Hagerman and was operated until 1893, when it was replaced by the Busk-Ivanhoe Tunnel. At the time of the tunnel's construction, it was one of the highest-elevation railroad tunnels ever constructed. Though the tunnel cannot be entered today due to water draining and partial collapse, adventurous visitors can view the tunnel's remains at railroad bed FR257, accessible via County Road 104. Flashlights are recommended for explorers.

White River National Forest, Sopris District, 620 Main Street, Carbondale, CO 81623, Phone: 970-963-2266

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