Cascade Tunnel Opens on Great Northern

The Great Northern Railway's 2.6-mile Cascade Tunnel opened on June 2, 1900, replacing a steep switchback route that had limited train lengths and required helper locomotives. Located near Stevens Pass, the tunnel allowed heavier freight trains to cross the Cascades more efficiently using steam power. Engineer John F. Stevens led the survey and construction through solid granite under extreme weather conditions. The project was part of James J. Hill's vision for a low-gradient northern transcontinental route. It significantly boosted lumber, mineral, and agricultural traffic from the Pacific Northwest to eastern markets and remained in service until replaced by a longer tunnel in 1929.