Goat Canyon Trestle CA
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Description: Goat Canyon Trestle, also known as the Carrizo Gorge Trestle, is an impressive and historic railroad trestle located in the remote and rugged Carrizo Gorge in southeastern California. Here are some key details about Goat Canyon Trestle: Location: Goat Canyon Trestle is situated in the Carrizo Gorge area of the Jacumba Mountains in San Diego County, California. It is part of the larger San Diego and Arizona Eastern (SD&AE) Railway line. Railroad History: The trestle was constructed as part of the SD&AE Railway, which was built in the early 20th century to provide a rail link between San Diego, California, and El Centro, California, and further into Arizona. The trestle was a critical engineering feat along this route. Engineering Marvel: Goat Canyon Trestle is renowned for its engineering significance. It is one of the largest curved wooden trestles in the world, measuring approximately 200 feet in height and 750 feet in length. The curved design allowed trains to navigate the rugged terrain. Construction: The trestle was built between 1932 and 1933, replacing an earlier wooden trestle that had been destroyed by a fire. The construction of the trestle required careful planning and skilled labor. Railroad Abandonment: In the mid-20th century, portions of the SD&AE Railway were abandoned, and the tracks in the Carrizo Gorge area fell into disuse. This section of the railway became known as the "Impossible Railroad" due to the challenging terrain. Preservation and Hiking: In recent years, there has been interest in preserving and restoring Goat Canyon Trestle and the surrounding railway route. Hiking and exploring the area have become popular among adventurers and railroad history enthusiasts. The hike to the trestle is considered strenuous and should only be attempted by experienced hikers. Natural Beauty: The Carrizo Gorge area offers stunning desert landscapes, rugged canyons, and unique geological formations. Visitors to the area can enjoy the natural beauty of the remote wilderness. Safety: Exploring the trestle and the surrounding area can be dangerous due to the steep terrain and the deteriorating condition of some railroad structures. Visitors are urged to exercise caution and be aware of safety risks. Remote Location: Access to Goat Canyon Trestle is challenging and requires careful planning. Visitors should be prepared for a remote and isolated environment with limited facilities.