San Diego Aqueduct

The San Diego Aqueduct is a pipeline system that moves water from the Colorado River to storage reservoirs near San Diego. The network consists of four main lines stretching over 94 miles, carrying water across diverse terrain and elevation changes.

The first pipeline opened in 1945, marking the beginning of this water supply system, while additional lines were added through the early 1970s. This gradual expansion allowed the region to meet growing water demands from a distant source.

The system reflects how the region adapted to living in dry conditions through engineering solutions. It shows the role of large-scale water projects in shaping local life and development.

The pipelines run mostly underground and are not directly accessible to visitors, though some sections can be viewed from certain vantage points. The system extends across a large area, so visitors interested in seeing the infrastructure should research specific viewable locations beforehand.

Some sections of the system were engineered to move water uphill using pressure, overcoming California's challenging topography. This solution demonstrates the creative problem-solving required to supply water across such varied and distant terrain.

Location: California

GPS coordinates: 33.29753,-117.09420

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:23