Massachusetts Has 2 Of The Longest Tunnels In America
Massachusetts, New York, Washington, and Alaska all have a common bond. That is, they are where you will find the longest tunnels in America. In fact, out of the six longest tunnels across the country, did you know two of them are in Massachusetts?
The scorecard: two for Washington, two for the Bay State, and one each for New York and Alaska. Just how long could these be? Well, we are talking about 16 miles and over 24 miles respectively.
The Daily Passport notes that these tunnels are not only roadways for cars to drive through. Some are not for cars at all. “They can also serve as miles-long passageways for everything from pedestrians and trains to the transportation of water for both consumption and hydroelectric power,” they said.
Quabbin Aqueduct Is One Of The Longest Tunnels
Measured at approximately 24.5 miles, the Quabbin Aqueduct is one of the longest tunnels that carries water. Its primary location is towards the central part of the state, near the West Boylston area. Gravitational forces all this tunnel to transfer water in both east and west directions.
“As well as contributing to the livelihood of the eastern Massachusetts population, the reservoirs at each end of the aqueduct are popular recreational sites,” Daily Passport explained.
Sudbury Aqueduct Is The Second Longest Massachusetts Tunnel
This measures 16 miles. You can find the Sudbury Aqueduct flowing from Farmington, outside of Boston, to the Chestnut Hill Reservoir area.
Its history dates back to 1875. The Boston Water Works constructed it over three years and utilized it for over 100 years. Now, much of the surrounding area can be explored and enjoyed as a public recreation place.
“The Sudbury Aqueduct carried 90 million gallons of drinking water per day 17.4 miles by gravity to feed the Chestnut Hill Reservoir, and from there to large pipelines and distribution reservoirs for use by Boston and the surrounding communities,” the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority explained.
Overall, the longest tunnel detailed by the Daily Passport was the Delaware Aqueduct in New York. This measures about 85 miles. The two in Massachusetts were then the next longest.
Six Of New England's Best RV Sites
Massachusetts - Pine Lake RV Resort
These grounds were completely renovated and reopened in November 2020. It is located in Sturbridge, which is in the south-central region of the state. There is an eight-acre lake onsite, a large pool, and an indoor recreation center for movies and games. Pine Lake also has cottages that you can rent.
Connecticut - Acres High RV Park
Labeled a “luxurious camping resort,” Acres High is open year round. It is located in East Lyme, CT off Chesterfield Rd. There’s a large fishing pond that has a beach area on the south side and a brook with paddle boats available. There are great hikes right at the base of the grounds. Moreover, if you’d like to explore attractions in close proximity to the park, Foxwoods Casino and the Children’s Museum are a close drive.
Rhode Island - Ashaway RV Resort
Settled peacefully near Westerly, RI, Ashaway inspires relaxation. It’s more of a flat ground, but does allow bikes to explore the all the sites. You can chill with your feet up at Ashaway or you can be very active. There are go-carts, basketball courts, pickleball, tennis, volleyball, and mini-golf.
New Hampshire - Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort
There are 152 campsites with 65 full hookups for RV’s. Sea Coast is right off US Route 1 in North Hampton, NH. It is surrounded by green trees. The closest shoreline beach is just four miles from the grounds. Onsite they are pet friendly and offer a large playground. While there is not a ton of swimming options outside your door, this is a great location to hit multiple New Hampshire vacation favorites. In addition to the stretches of beach, Portsmouth is only eight miles up the road.
Vermont - Sugar Ridge RV Village
Sugar Ridge is settled on 68 acres of maple and pine trees. You can even rent 40-foot campers at this family-friendly village. It is located on Old Stagecoach Rd. in Danville, VT. There are two swimming pools, horse wagon rides, and dedicated hiking and bike trails. Sugar Ridge organizes daily activities you can partake in as well.
Maine - Balsam Woods, Spacious Skies
Spacious Skies has two locations in Maine, however, Balsam Woods is where RV’s go to really feel the spacious sky overhead. This is in Abbot, Maine, and while you share the grounds with cabins, you have the choice to pull your RV up to a woods or non-woods site. Regardless, there are miles of hiking trails. As for unique amenities – gem mining or jumping on a giant pillow trampoline anyone?
