Tehachapi Loop, Railway spiral in Kern County, United States.
The Tehachapi Loop features a 3,779-foot-long spiral track that crosses over itself while gaining 77 feet in elevation through mountainous terrain.
Engineers William Hood and James Strobridge directed 3,000 Chinese workers to construct this railroad marvel between 1874 and 1876 through granite surfaces.
The California Historical Landmark designation recognizes this engineering achievement as the first direct rail connection between San Francisco and Los Angeles.
The loop handles 40 freight trains daily, with trains longer than 3,800 feet passing over themselves while navigating the circular track.
A viewing platform on Woodford-Tehachapi Road provides visitors an observation point to watch trains traverse through Tunnel 9 and complete the spiral.
Location: Kern County
GPS coordinates: 35.20083,-118.53694
Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:24
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