The Longest Tunnel in Oklahoma Feels Like an Endless Underground Adventure

Did you know that the longest tunnel in Oklahoma, is also the only railroad tunnel in the state? This impressive tunnel is worth a visit! This tunnel is also old and was first built in 1885. Can you guess which tunnel we’re talking about? Follow along to discover the longest tunnel in Oklahoma, and some fun facts about the wildlife that calls the surrounding area home.

What is the Longest Tunnel in Oklahoma?

The longest tunnel in Oklahoma is the Jenson Tunnel, also known as the Jenson Railroad Tunnel or the KCS-Backbone Tunnel, and it stretches 1,180 feet. This tunnel first began construction in 1885 and opened the following year. It sits at an elevation of about 600 feet and has a single track. The average height of this tunnel is 20 feet, while its width is 14 feet. When it was first built, the railroad tunnel was in the Choctaw Nation in Indian Territory. However, since Oklahoma is now a state, the railroad tunnel is part of Le Flore County, Oklahoma.

This long tunnel is used by the Kansas City Southern. The Frisco Railway constructed this tunnel through Backbone Mountain. The tunnel isn’t entirely lined. There are only 324 feet of stone lining at the ends of the tunnel with a brick arch. This tunnel has a lot of history and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) on May 13, 1976.

About LeFlore County, Oklahoma

LeFlore County is a unique county known for many things, not just hosting the longest tunnel in Oklahoma. This county is on the eastern border of Oklahoma. It was founded in 1907 and is named after an influential Choctaw Indian family.

The total surface area for this county is 1,609 square miles, and about 19 square miles is water. A little over 50,000 people live in this county. Before Oklahoma became a state, this county was part of the Moshulatubbee and the Apukshunnubbee districts.

This county has a lot of beauty. Here you can see the Arkansas River, which forms a natural boundary. You can also see the Ouachita Mountains in the southern part of the county. When visiting, don’t forget to take a scenic drive. It’s lovely during fall when the leaves change color.

Where is LeFlore County, Oklahoma Located on a Map?

Le Flore County, situated along the eastern border of Oklahoma, boasts a population of 48,129 residents as per the 2020 census. Poteau serves as the county seat, and the county is encompassed within the Fort Smith metropolitan area. Its name holds a special significance, honoring the LeFlore family, a prominent Choctaw family.

Here is LeFlore County, Oklahoma:

Oklahoma Wildlife

Oklahoma’s wildlife is diverse. The beautiful mountainous and green state has over 1,100 animal species, both small and large. Follow along to learn more about animals you may see near the longest tunnel in Oklahoma.

Coyote

Coyotes are common in North America. They are small wild canines that can weigh up to 44 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, but the difference is minimal. Coyotes are typically light grey, with some red, black, or white fur. The color depends on the subspecies and region. Currently, there are 19 recognized coyote subspecies. Although coyotes live in forested areas, they adapt well to new environments. Because of overdevelopment and urbanization, we are seeing coyotes more in cities and neighborhoods.

Big Brown Bat

Another animal you may find residing near the longest tunnel in Oklahoma is the big brown bat. These bats are sometimes referred to as house bats. You can find these flying vesper bats in North America, the Caribbean, and South America. Although small compared to other animals, big brown bats have a wingspan between 12.8 to 13.8 inches long. These adorable animals aren’t picky. You can find them in large cities, rural areas, and suburbs. This bat species is very common in Oklahoma.

Nine-banded Armadillo

The nine-banded armadillo is a mainly nocturnal animal found in North, Central, and South America. This tough mammal is an excellent jumper. They can easily jump up to 4 feet in the air when frightened. These large animals weigh about 5.5 to 14.3 pounds. You can find these animals in Oklahoma, Florida, Georgia, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Louisiana.

American Goldfinch

Next on our list of animals you can encounter while visiting the longest tunnel in Oklahoma is the American goldfinch. This bird is easy to spot because of its vibrant yellow feathers. This bird is small and weighs less than 0.5 ounces. American goldfinches are found throughout North America and fly many miles during the breeding season. Although their appearance doesn’t change much, for most of the year, American goldfinches have pink beaks. The peaks turn bright orange in spring when molting. They are common in Oklahoma and live in many urban areas. You can see them feeding from birdfeeders and trays.

Spotted Bass

Last but not least is the spotted bass. While it’s unlikely you’ll see this fish species while visiting the longest tunnel in Oklahoma, it’s a common fish in the state. Spotted bass are North American freshwater fish that are about 25 inches long. Most spotted bass in Oklahoma are in the east. You can find this bass in West Cache Creek.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © val lawless/Shutterstock.com