Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train is an educational and historic tourist attraction offering unique guided tours. Visitors can explore a coal mine by riding a battery-operated mine car that takes them 1,800 feet inside a horizontal drift mine, providing insight into coal mining safety and coal veins, including one on fire from Centralia. The tour also includes a ride on a 1927 narrow gauge steam locomotive that travels three-quarters of a mile up the mountain, showcasing strip mining and offering beautiful views of the surrounding area and nearby Appalachian Mountains. The property is well maintained, clean, and located next to a community park with bathrooms and seating, making it a pleasant spot for visitors. The experience is both educational and exciting, with guides providing interesting information about mining methods and history. Visitors can also enjoy a small museum, and some tours include a tram ride to see old mining operations. The site is suitable for those interested in history, coal mining, and steam trains, though it’s recommended to bring a jacket due to the cool underground temperatures. Overall, the attraction offers a memorable glimpse into coal mining history with engaging tours and scenic train rides, making it worth a visit for those in the area.
The gentleman who gave us the tour was an actual coal miner and was incredibly knowledgeable about the mine we were in. 10/10 I would recommend this tour to anyone. Thank you “Darla”
September 2026
Jeff and Daryl are amazing one of the best tours I have ever done. Jeff did a fantastic tour. Would do this again even in the rain and cold was amazing
September 2026
Hey fun experience to learn how they coal mine back in the day
