California Desert Adventure ☀️Abandoned Trains of the San Diego and Arizona Eastern Railway (Day) -

The Goat Canyon Trestle Hike is a 16-mile walk in the blazing sun along a stretch of tracks called “The Impossible Railroad.” The lure of which is outstanding scenic views, the remains of the world’s largest curved wooden train trestle and abandoned railcars memorializing its life as part of the San Diego and Arizona Eastern Railway, established in 1906. Among the harsh conditions you accept as you partake in the hike are traversing the pitch black railroad tunnels blown into the Carrizo Canyon, the blazing rays of the desert sun in full effect, stepping upon several trestles in various states of decay, and… again, that great ball of fire that cares not for your comfort, especially in July when the hike is foolish to even attempt.

Even though I have been a fool for far less, a little recon prior to my visit revealed a far easier means of accessing the hike and a section of abandoned rail cars: DeAnza Springs Resort, a clothing-optional resort where the privately accessed trailhead provides views in less than a mile. Naturally I booked a camping site, determined to prevent heat exhaustion. To follow are the shots of that quick meander in the day time, when our closest star beamed strong. After, please see here for the deep, dark night views of the site, when many more stars had their chance to shine.

Double-decker trains with two levels of seating were open and airy. Their construction is impressive.

In between the upper seating is a shelf that runs the length of the car for luggage.

With collapsed tunnels and trestles in disrepair, the train cars were left to the elements–now they are museums, containing some impressive graffiti and an equal display of wholly unimpressive graffiti.