In order to improve traffic flow, a 13-mile section of the PA Turnpike was re-routed in 1968, leaving an apocalyptic-looking landscape just outside of Breezewood. The abandoned roadway is mostly open to walkers, bikers, hikers and explorers.
Rays Hill Tunnel, along the abandoned stretch, is 0.67 miles long and was the shortest of the original seven PA Turnpike tunnels. It’s easily accessible, but is about a 1.5 miles from the western entrance on Route 30.
At the west end of the Rays Hill Tunnel, there is a suite of rooms that appears to be an old office area or control room of some sort.
Aside from the graffiti along the way, you will find some interesting items that you wouldn’t see on an old stretch of highway, including rumble strips, reflectors, fresh line painting and even brand new pavement because this area is sometimes used by PennDOT for training and testing purposes.
Establish my footsteps in Your Word ~ Psalm 119:133 