How to Hike to the Iconic Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase after clicking one of my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see my disclaimer.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure to the legendary Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge! Hidden in California’s Carrizo Gorge, this towering structure has stories to tell. With excitement and a few good friends, I set off on a journey through rugged trails and desert landscapes to find this hidden gem. Along the way, I discovered stunning views, unexpected surprises, and endless photo opportunities. So, grab your boots and join me on a trip filled with history, nature, and pure fun!
About the Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge
The Goat Canyon Trestle is a historic wooden railroad bridge in California’s Carrizo Gorge.
Built in 1932-1933, it stretches 597 feet long and 186 feet tall, making it one of the largest wooden trestles in the world.
It was part of the San Diego and Arizona Eastern Railway, which connected San Diego, California, to Yuma, Arizona. The bridge was made from redwood timber to handle the gorge’s extreme temperatures.
Trains used the trestle until the 1980s, when the railway was abandoned.
Since then, the bridge has faced damage from weather, vandalism, and neglect. Many groups want to restore it as a historic site and tourist attraction.
Hiking to Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge
Safety first! Hiking to the Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge is a tough but rewarding adventure. However, the route is rugged and potentially dangerous. Here are key things to know before you go:
Remote Location
The bridge sits deep in Carrizo Gorge, far from services or facilities. The hike is long, with little to no cell service, so be prepared for isolation.
Trail Difficulty
The trail is unmarked and unmaintained, making it hard to follow. Expect steep climbs, loose rocks, and tricky terrain. Only experienced hikers should attempt it.
Permits & Access
Some routes cross private property or protected land, so you may need a permit. Check local regulations before heading out.
Safety Tips
- Extreme heat & dehydration are real dangers. Bring plenty of water and sun protection.
- Watch for wildlife and be aware of your surroundings.
- Use a map, compass, or GPS to avoid getting lost.
- The best time for this hike is winter or early spring when temperatures are lower.
Leave No Trace
Respect nature by packing out all trash, avoiding damage to plants, and following posted rules.
Hike in a Group
Hiking with experienced friends is safer than going alone. The long distance and tough terrain make teamwork important.
Plan Ahead
Before your hike, research routes, check trail conditions, and review any regulations. Local hiking clubs and outdoor groups can offer great advice.
Gear Recommendations
In addition to the renowned ten essentials, take into account the following gear recommendations for embarking on this hike:
Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Hiking Shoes
Choosing the right hiking shoes is key to comfort, performance, and safety. The right footwear prevents discomfort on rugged […]…
Garmin GPSMAP 67i: Review of the Best Hiking GPS
Review of the Garmin GPSMAP 67i and comparison to the GPSMAP 66i, Mini 2 and InReach Messenger plus[…]…
Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge Hiking Options
Option 1: 16-mile round trip from the DeAnza Springs Resort
This is the route I chose. Keep scrolling to watch a video of my hike below!
You can park at the DeAnza Springs Resort‘s hiker parking lot for a nominal fee. Parking fee is payable over the phone by calling the resort directly. This allows you to start the hike early, even if the resort front desk isn’t open yet on the day or at the time, you want to start your hike!
From the designated parking lot, follow the wooden ” trains ” sign to locate the railroad. And then, simply walk alongside the tracks for approximately 8 miles. The terrain is mostly flat or gently sloping towards the bridge, which means you’ll have a slight uphill on the way back. It’s impossible to get lost!
During the hike, you’ll traverse a few small bridges and several tunnels, varying in length. Some tunnels are closed for safety purposes, necessitating a detour, but the path is easy to follow.
You’ll also encounter abandoned train carriages along the way, adding to the excitement of the journey.
I undertook this hike in April and was treated to a vibrant display of wildflowers lining the trail.
The primary challenge of this route is the distance. It requires covering a total of 16 miles, potentially in hot and/or windy conditions. Additionally, this route traverses private property, with prominent “trespassing” signs marking the beginning of the trail. Therefore, proceed at your own risk!
Option 2: Goat Canyon Trestle: Palms to Doz Cabezas
Explore this 12.8-mile loop trail, known as the Palms to Dos Cabezas trail. While I haven’t personally hiked this specific route, I’m sharing insights based on AllTrails. It’s generally regarded as challenging, taking close to 6 hours to complete, suitable for backpacking, camping, and hiking. This trail provides solitude amidst the rugged terrain, with the best times to visit being between January and March. This route entails a 2,000-foot elevation gain and requires climbing, scrambling, and navigation skills. Using an SUV with high clearance is recommended to reach the trailhead.
Option 3: Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge via Mortero Palms
This route is a 5.8-mile loop trail, which is known for its challenging nature. While I haven’t personally hiked this trail, I’m providing insights based on AllTrails.
Accessing the trailhead requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. Hikers who have tackled the Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge via Mortero Palms trail suggest taking the right side of the loop as an out-and-back for a less strenuous experience. They highlight challenging bouldering and rock scrambling along the trail. While the hike offers stunning views once you reach the trestle, caution is advised, especially during wet conditions when rocks can become slippery, and steep sections may pose risks. Described as grueling yet rewarding, the hike demands upper body fitness and typically takes around 6 hours to complete.
Relive my Goat Canyon Trestle Hike!
Check out my Goat Canyon Trestle hike on Relive! It’s a fantastic platform for adventure lovers to capture and share outdoor experiences like never before. With Relive, you can create custom videos that vividly depict your journeys, turning memories into captivating stories ready for sharing. Share the beauty of your adventures and inspire others to explore nature through Relive’s immersive storytelling.
Join this vibrant community today and turn every adventure into a captivating visual story. Embrace the adventure and seize the chance to immortalize it with Relive!
Final Thoughts on hiking to the Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge
Hiking in the desert offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re tackling the rugged Palms to Dos Cabezas loop, scrambling over boulders on the Mortero Palms trail, or trekking to the Goat Canyon Trestle Bridge from DeAnza Springs Resort, adventure awaits. Each trail comes with its own challenges, from steep climbs to rocky paths. But the stunning views and the pride of reaching your destination make every step worth it. So, grab your gear, embrace the journey, and enjoy the beauty of the desert. The reward? Breathtaking scenery and a sense of accomplishment. Happy trails!
Post originally published on April 26, 2024, and last updated on March 5, 2025.
