During the Fall of 1981 and the Summer of 1982, Bill Symons explored the three former single tube tunnels of the PA TPK System.  The tunnels, Laurel Hill, Ray's Hill, and Sideling Hill, had been abandoned for over 10 years.  Since then, these three once busy passageways have been explored by many Turnpike, road, or outdoor enthusiasts.  What is unique about these photos from 20 years ago is that many of the original artifacts (lettering and lane stripping) still existed at the entrances to the three tunnels.  With the widespread popularity of abandoned Turnpike exploration, these photos capture the exterior of the abandoned tunnels closer to their operable form than they are today.

I am pleased to share with you Bill's photos as part of the PA Road Photos & More PA Turnpike Collection.  These photos show the abandoned tunnels and roadways of the PA Turnpike with 20 years less of decay and vandalization.  But at the same time, it is truly amazing that after over 30 years of quiet abandonment that these small forgotten ribbons of highway have kept a remarkable form that serves as a living history of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.


Laurel Hill Tunnel ---Bypassed in 1964, the Laurel Hill Tunnel, located in Westmoreland County, was the first tunnel to be bypassed on the turnpike system.

Ray's Hill Tunnel ---Bypassed in 1968, Ray's Hill Tunnel's length was 2,532 feet.

Sideling Hill Tunnel ---The longest of the original tunnels, 6,782 feet, Sideling Hill was bypassed with Ray's Hill in 1968.

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    Page Created: September 15, 2002
    Last Updated: September 28, 2003

    (C) 2002-03 William Lawson