Cajon Pass, Road and rail mountain pass in San Bernardino County, United States.
Cajon Pass is a mountain crossing between the San Bernardino Mountains and San Gabriel Mountains in Southern California, reaching an elevation of about 3,777 feet. The Interstate 15 and two major railway lines cut through the pass, forming a crucial transportation corridor that links Los Angeles with the High Desert region.
The first railroad through the pass was built in the 1880s by the California Southern Railroad, connecting Barstow to San Diego across challenging terrain. This rail line transformed transportation in the region and enabled faster movement of goods and people between coastal areas and inland destinations.
The pass carries a Spanish name meaning box or chest, a reference to how the narrow passage between the mountains appeared to early travelers. This naming reflects the route's long history as a crossing point used by different peoples moving through Southern California.
The pass is easily accessed via Interstate 15, which serves as the primary road connection through the area. Keep in mind that the terrain is mountainous and exposed, particularly during extreme weather conditions, so plan your visit accordingly.
The Pacific Crest Trail crosses through the pass at a location where hikers encounter a McDonald's restaurant, an unexpected oasis of civilization in the middle of wilderness. This surprising intersection makes the spot a memorable moment for long-distance trail walkers.
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