Tehachapi Loop
|
ATSF_19870400_CA_Walong.jpg
Under_a_container_car,_Walong,_California.jpg
The Tehachapi Loop is a major railroad main line through the Tehachapi Mountains in south central California, connecting the San Joaquin Valley to Los Angeles via the Antelope Valley. Hailed as one of the greatest engineering feats of its day as well as being the world's busiest single-track main, the line is shared by both the Burlington Northern Santa Fe and Union Pacific. The line derives its name from the circuitous route it takes through mountains, considerably lessening the angle of the grade. If a train is long enough, it can actually loop back onto itself. The area is considered to be one of the prime railfan areas in the country with its combination of frequent train traffic and spectacular scenery. A railroad museum with many historical rail artifacts is located in the small city of Tehachapi.