Hike The Trail Along These Abandoned Rails In Southern California

When it comes to experiencing the beauty of Southern California, there’s nothing like a day spent out and about in its natural beauty. The topography of the geographical region is truly unmatched, and there’s something about the expansive outdoors that really elevates the southern part of the state to the next level. If you’re looking for a fun adventure, then there’s an abandoned railroad hike in SoCal that’s bound to make you psyched for the weekend! If you’re up for the challenge, the hike along these abandoned rails in California takes you to an incredible wooden trestle bridge.

The Carizzo Gorge Railroad was a true feat of engineering. It took 12 years and $18 million (back in 1919!) to complete. To reach it, you'll take a six-mile-long trail.

Before undertaking this hike, be forewarned that this is a difficult trail with lots of elevation change, full sun exposure, and scrambling up and down dirt-and-rock inclines. You have to get ready to get dirty on one of the most unique hiking trails in Southern California.

Fortunately, you'll find a few pockets of unexpected shade, but you'll definitely want to sunscreen and layer up for this one.

The trail can be very difficult to find. From Mortero Palms, you'll hike down into Goat Canyon, then back up again toward the trestle. You'll need good navigation skills and ideally a GPS to find your way.

Multiple tunnels were carved out of the mountains. The view is unreal, and you may just feel like you've gone to another place entirely. This is perhaps one of the most scenic hikes in Southern California. If you can choose a top hike, of course. It's hard!

These tunnels also offer welcome relief from the sun, so take a moment to enjoy the views.

Once you reach the Goat Canyon Trestle, you'll be stunned at the size and beauty of this 100-year-wonder.

You can traverse it, but it's not for the faint of heart. We wouldn't recommend it, friends. Stay safe and listen to what's outlined by local law enforcement - this man-made wonder is as rickety as they come.

Plan on at least six hours for this 12-mile round trip journey and take plenty of water with you! One of the most abandoned places in Southern California won't have a heap of stores, of course. You need to plan ahead for you and your party. Hydration is key!

That said, don't let the length of this trail or exposure deter you. There are some truly fantastic sights along this trail, and the desert foliage is pretty stellar!

For more information about this hike, take a look at this YouTube video posted by California Through My Lens:

To learn more about the trail to Goat Canyon Trestle, check out the AllTrails page for this hike along abandoned rails in California.

Have you ever explored this abandoned train California or the nearby trestle? If so, we want to hear all about it! Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

There’s nothing more incredible than a day trip in SoCal, and we have a feeling this unique trail might be of interest. Happy adventuring!

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Abandoned Railroad in Southern California

Sarah M. | February 01, 2023

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