Like Virginia Tech, University of Virginia students have a long tradition of steam tunnel exploration. Unlike Virginia Tech, the UVA steam tunnels are quite difficult to enter and exit - it took me a number of scouting trips to find a usable entrance. Even then, I was only able to access a small portion of the 5-mile tunnel network. (I'm still looking for good entrances to the rest of the tunnel system)

The UVA steam tunnels are much like any other: there are high and low pressure steam lines, as well as pipes for condensate return. The tunnel network is divided by Emmet Street into two main sections, and is further divided up by locked gates in the tunnels. Unfortunately, there are also locked gates that prevent egress into the dorms and academic buildings. The tunnels themselves are of easy walking height, and have a number of twists, turns, ladders, and stairs.

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