Hike Along This Abandoned Railroad Trail 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 Southern California that’s bound to make you psyched for the weekend! If you’re up for the challenge, this abandoned rail trail in SoCal 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.

Doris W./Yelp

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.

Kim H./Yelp

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.

Markus N./Yelp

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!

Victoria N./Yelp

You’ll want to make sure that you have a flashlight with you for this hike.

Victoria N./Yelp

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

Brian E./Yelp

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. Safety is key!

Doris W./Yelp

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!

Brian E./Yelp

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

Doris W./Yelp

Kim H./Yelp

Markus N./Yelp

Victoria N./Yelp

Brian E./Yelp

To learn more about this unique outdoor adventure, check out the AllTrails page for the Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge hike.

Have you ever explored this abandoned railroad hike in Southern California? 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 hot spot might be of interest. Happy adventuring!

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Address: Carrizo Gorge, California, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

abandoned railroad hike in Southern California February 01, 2023 Sarah M. What are the best day trips in Southern California? Southern California is an expansive region that’s known for being easily traversed and expansive fun. If you’re looking to take a day trip or maybe even head out on a weekend getaway, there’s nothing like LA County’s South Bay beaches, or maybe even a trip to the coastal town of Santa Barbara. Head to Laguna Beach for some phenomenal photo opportunities, and La Jolla is also a great place to go. Death Valley National Park is UNREAL, and Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve is a fabulous spot to experience when the flowers are in full bloom. What are the most unique parks in Southern California? Looking for some unique parks to visit in SoCal? The real question is: what isn’t a unique park in SoCal, because we love them all! Consider exploring places like:

Death Valley National Park is unreal with its lonely landscape; Joshua Tree National Park is also a must-visit for its unique botanical wildlife; Santa Monica Mountains National Recreational Area for outdoor picnicking and hiking; and Mojave National Reserve offers amazing fun in the SoCal desert.

The OIYS Visitor Center

abandoned railroad hike in Southern California

February 01, 2023

Sarah M.

What are the best day trips in Southern California? Southern California is an expansive region that’s known for being easily traversed and expansive fun. If you’re looking to take a day trip or maybe even head out on a weekend getaway, there’s nothing like LA County’s South Bay beaches, or maybe even a trip to the coastal town of Santa Barbara. Head to Laguna Beach for some phenomenal photo opportunities, and La Jolla is also a great place to go. Death Valley National Park is UNREAL, and Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve is a fabulous spot to experience when the flowers are in full bloom. What are the most unique parks in Southern California? Looking for some unique parks to visit in SoCal? The real question is: what isn’t a unique park in SoCal, because we love them all! Consider exploring places like:

The OIYS Visitor Center

Southern California is an expansive region that’s known for being easily traversed and expansive fun. If you’re looking to take a day trip or maybe even head out on a weekend getaway, there’s nothing like LA County’s South Bay beaches, or maybe even a trip to the coastal town of Santa Barbara. Head to Laguna Beach for some phenomenal photo opportunities, and La Jolla is also a great place to go. Death Valley National Park is UNREAL, and Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve is a fabulous spot to experience when the flowers are in full bloom.

What are the most unique parks in Southern California?

Looking for some unique parks to visit in SoCal? The real question is: what isn’t a unique park in SoCal, because we love them all! Consider exploring places like:

Death Valley National Park is unreal with its lonely landscape;
Joshua Tree National Park is also a must-visit for its unique botanical wildlife;
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreational Area for outdoor picnicking and hiking; and
Mojave National Reserve offers amazing fun in the SoCal desert.