As I work on After the End of the Line: Railroad Hauntings in Literature and Lore, I thought it would be fun to see if any of the spooky railways that I find in my historical research can still be visited and are still being discussed as paranormal hot spots. I’ve already found one that is. It’s Big Bull Tunnel in Wise County, which is in Virginia and close to the Kentucky border.
First, here’s an article from the August 6, 1905, issue of the Birmingham Age-Herald:
Now, here are a few websites that show 1) the Bull Tunnel is still there and 2) some say it’s still haunted:
In her very well-researched article at Virginia Creeper, Laura Wright says: “Today, the tunnel is still used and still suspected of being haunted. Hikers visit the structure, but should be warned the tunnel is on private property and trains still pass through.”
A site called Anomalien says: “Today Big Bull Tunnel is just as haunted as it ever was – the sounds are still heard by anybody that goes near and train crews hold their breath as they pass through.” Hmmm. Heard by anybody?
Even if you don’t hear anything there, Beth at Only In Your State suggests the spot is a tantalizing one: “Whether or not you believe in the ghostly echoes of trapped engineers, it’s hard to deny that this site is amazing.” Titled “What Lies Beneath the Streets of This Virginia City Is Creepy Yet Amazing,” the post comes with some very nice photos.
Please leave a comment if you have visited — or plan to visit — or have tried to visit — Big Bull Tunnel! I’d love to hear about your experience. That said, Wright’s advice to be very careful is certainly well worth heeding.
— Tim
