Re: Alpine Tunnel--Accessing the east portal?

Good on the 14'ers, Bill. I'm at the halfway point getting up all 54 myself, but I wanted to be careful before blithely recommending a hike over the top. We come in all shapes, sizes and ages here on the NGDF.

Years ago, you used to be able to drive all the way to the portal with a 4wd, so that's exactly what I did on my first visit, ca 1971. Since then, the Forest Service has closed the grade and it's been a walk from Hancock for some time now.

As for mileage, I remember it as a couple of miles, but you know how distances change in your mind with time. I'd have to look at a map to be sure, and I'm on the road right now and nowhere near any of my maps. And like most walks along old RR grades, yes it's a very easy hike and not too badly overgrown - at least it wasn't the last time I hiked up there.

Scott