Description: The railroad across Tehachapi Pass connects Bakersfield with Mojave. It was built between 1874 and 1876 by the Southern Pacific Railroad. Over a length of 28mi, with an average gradient of 2.2 percent, it overcomes a difference in altitude of around 3280feet. At the time, it represented one of the greatest engineering achievements.

The Tehachapi Loop is part of the route and overcomes a particularly steep section between Caliente and the Tehachapi Pass. On 0,73mi almost 79feet of altitude must be overcome here. The problem was solved by a tunnel and a loop at which the trains cross themselves. The loop has a diameter of 1214feet.

Our rating: From the Tehachapi Loop Overlook you can watch the trains as they pass through the loop. Since the railroad line is very busy, you usually don't have to wait long for a train to pass. During our visit in May 2023 we were even lucky enough to watch two trains at the same time. We think the detour here is well worth it. Due to the very attractive landscape around, this is not only for railroad fans.