EXPLORING THE EAST RIVER MOUNTAIN TUNNEL: THE GATEWAY BETWEEN WEST VIRGINIA AND VIRGINIA

Have you ever driven through Mercer County, West Virginia, without realizing it? If you’ve passed through the East River Mountain Tunnel, chances are you have. What now feels like a smooth ride between West Virginia and Virginia was once a treacherous climb over rugged terrain.

Let’s take a drive back in time to see how the East River Mountain Tunnel transformed travel in southern West Virginia.

A Natural Divide: East River Mountain’s Landscape

At first glance, southern West Virginia and southwestern Virginia seem closely connected on a map. But nature had other plans. The two states are separated by East River Mountain, a 35-mile-long ridge that acts as a natural boundary between them.

East River Mountain stretches from Tazewell, Virginia into Mercer County, West Virginia. Its highest point, Buckhorn Knob, reaches 4,069 feet and is located in Mercer County. The mountain’s steep elevation and sandstone composition made road construction difficult for decades.

Before modern infrastructure, travelers had to brave Route 52, a winding, narrow switchback with no guardrails. Fog, wind, and winter weather often closed the route, making it both unreliable and dangerous.

Breaking Ground: The Birth of the East River Mountain Tunnel

By the late 1960s, both West Virginia and Virginia recognized that traveling over the mountain was no longer practical. The solution? Go through it.

In 1969, construction began on the East River Mountain Tunnel—a 5,412-foot passage that would ultimately lie 1,077 feet below the summit. The process was far from easy. Engineers encountered mud, underground springs, and massive limestone caverns that caused repeated delays. But they pushed on.

The result was an engineering feat: a tunnel lined with ceramic tiles, equipped with 24 ventilation fans, emergency systems, and atmospheric sensors. When it finally opened on December 20, 1974, it became part of I-77 and US 52, providing a vital link between Bluefield, WV and Rocky Gap, VA.

The Overlook: A Scenic Stop in Mercer County

What was once an obstacle is now one of Mercer County’s most stunning views. The East River Mountain Overlook sits 3,500 feet above sea level, offering panoramic vistas of West Virginia’s rolling hills and valleys.

Bring a camera, a picnic, or simply pause to take in the scenery. On clear days, you can see Bluefield far below, or even watch a summer storm roll across the mountains. It’s a must-stop on any scenic drive through southern West Virginia.

Don’t Miss the “Almost Heaven” Swing

Located near the overlook is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Mercer County — the “Almost Heaven” Swing. This rustic wooden swing, framed by scenic mountain views, offers a peaceful moment to take in the landscape or snap the perfect photo.

Whether you’re watching the sunrise, capturing fall colors, or simply enjoying the breeze, the swing has become a must-visit for travelers exploring Mercer County. It’s a true snapshot of what makes West Virginia wild and wonderful.

Last updated: August 19, 2025