Tunnel Vision

Biking in wisconsin has been very different than the western states. I have mostly been riding on trails instead of roads. On really hot days it has been easier on my body because there is a lot more shade compared to roads and it is less tiring to not have to think about car traffic behind me.

One of the trails I rode is the famous Sparta to Elroy trail. I had definitely heard about this trail, but had forgotten all about the tunnel. Suddenly I come upon this cool breeze and saw the dramatic entrance.

Walking is required in the tunnel because it is too dark to be safe. Water is streaming and dripping from the walls and ceiling. I walked w/o light to get a more complete experience. The walls glisten with the limited light. Water flows along the walls on either side like 2 creeks because of natural springs. At one point on the trail, neither entrance could be seen. It was also pleasant to get out of the 90 plus degree heat The tunnel is 3/4 of a mile in length. My experience in the tunnel was magical.

The tunnel was completed in 1873 after three years of dynamite, and a lot of manual labor.  Trains traveled through the tunnel until 1964 and it was converted to a bike trail a few years later.

I imagined a conversation with one of the the men who worked building the tunnel.

ME: Hello, sir.I hear that you worked on building this tunnel.
MAN: Yes it was awful. It was cold, wet, dirty and dangerous backbreaking work. Though it was exciting to see trains finally traveling through it. By the way, where are the trains now?
ME: the train stopped using the tunnel 60 years ago.
MAN:  oh I see is it used for those motorized carriage cars now?
ME: No it’s a bicycle trail.
MAN: As in pedal bikes?
ME: yes, but  they don’t bicycle inside the tunnel itself.They just walk because it’s too dark to be safe.
MAN: So this tunnel is no longer used by trains? It is a bike trail now, but people can’t bike through the tunnel because it’s not safe?
ME: Thats right.
MAN: All that worked for nothing.