Tunnel Hill Trail in Illinois - and fear of heights - trestle bridges

[K.C.]

My husband and I are planning on traveling to Illinois to ride the entire Tunnel Hill Trail next year, but I understand that there are numerous trestle bridges, including the 90 ft. high LONG one - and I have a pretty bad fear of heights.... To all who have ridden this trail and also have a fear of heights, is the Breeden Trestle the only bridge that might bother me? I'm a little apprehensive when I hear that there are 23 bridges to contend with!! Also concerned with any drop offs by the side of the trail that might bother me. Any information I can get beforehand will help tremendously. My husband is so looking forward to making this trip, and he's such a wonderful guy I don't want to spoil the trip for him!

[scroca]

I don't remember that many bridges too tell the truth. So I guess if there are that many, most are not significant. It's been a couple of years, but I'd guess most are just little stream crossing things, some of which you might hardly notice.

I do remember one that was long and high, so that might bother you. If it would help to get off the bike and walk on that one, it would not wreck the trip for either of you.

I don't think drop offs by the side of the trail are a concern.

My biggest problem came in the tunnel itself -- so dark and disorienting, even though you can see the light at the end -- I had to put my feet out to keep myself going.

[robow]

I have ridden this 50 mile trail down and back about 6 times and there aren't that many major bridges and not very many of them are that high. When they are up there, you have fencing so as to not allow you to fall off of course. The trail and bridges are your typical rail to trail and are quite wide. Below is photo of my bike on one of the highest ones. It really is a very nice and well maintained rail/trail and make sure you take in the few mile spur over to the Cache Wetlands Park. If you have any questions, PM me.

[Hipster_Killa]

looks like fun!

[john_steed_uk]

This is a beautiful and easy trail. Pedal quickly over the bridges/trestles and look straight ahead. You will be fine and enjoy the pristine beauty of this trail. The tunnel itself is a bit of a let down. Short and meaningless. NOTHING compared to the tunnels of the Sparta-Elroy Trail.

[Randy Bosma]

Large portions of the trail are a generous 12 feet wide. Walk the bridges if you prefer; I found the railings to be high enough to erase any concern of falling, even when riding. The tunnel is, in my opinion, a must-walk: the sudden change from full daylight to total darkness is unnerving when riding as your eyes don't adjust quickly. You know there is a rock wall a few feet away, but you can not see it.

Bottom line: Do the Tunnel Hill Trail!!