The Big Savage Tunnel on the Great Allegheny Passage will close for the 2026-27 winter season on Wednesday, Nov. 25, according to a trail alert from the Great Allegheny Passage. The tunnel is at GAP Mile 22.
Somerset County closes the tunnel every year for the season. The GAP said the closure protects the tunnel’s lining from freeze-thaw cycles brought on by high winds, cold temperatures and wet, snowy conditions at high elevation.
There is no detour, and the GAP notes that local roads are narrow and treacherous. Trail users are asked to plan their winter trips on other parts of the GAP.
The tunnel will reopen in late March or early April depending on snowfall and temperature, according to the alert. The GAP said it will update the alert page with an exact date when it is announced.
See the original trail alert from the Great Allegheny Passage.
