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Ridge Route Historical Marker: A Bygone Era

Discover the Ridge Route Historical Marker in Santa Clarita, a tribute to California's first mountain highway, offering scenic views and a glimpse into the state's transportation history.

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The Ridge Route Historical Marker commemorates California's first mountain highway, a marvel of engineering completed in 1915. This winding road, predating Interstate 5, connected Northern and Southern California, fostering trade and tourism. Known for its hairpin turns and challenging terrain, the Ridge Route was a vital artery until bypassed in 1933. Today, the marker serves as a reminder of this pioneering road, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the stunning natural landscape. While much of the original route is no longer accessible by car, the historical marker provides a tangible link to this important piece of California's transportation history, inviting reflection on the ingenuity and perseverance of early road builders and the impact this route had on the state's development.

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Local tips

  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the area around the marker.
  • Bring a camera to capture the scenic views and historical significance of the site.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Santa Clarita, take Interstate 5 north towards Gorman. Exit at Templin Highway. Head east on Templin Highway. Turn right onto Ridge Route Road. Continue for a short distance to the Ridge Route Historical Marker. Parking is available near the marker.

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The Ridge Route Historical Marker stands as a testament to a pivotal era in California's transportation history. Completed in 1915, the Ridge Route was the first highway to traverse the rugged terrain between Los Angeles and Bakersfield, linking Southern and Northern California in a way never before imagined. This engineering marvel, born from the need to overcome the formidable Tehachapi Mountains, predates the modern Interstate 5, offering a glimpse into a time when road construction was a far more arduous undertaking. The original Ridge Route was a 48-mile stretch of winding road, characterized by its narrow width, steep grades, and an astonishing number of curves – some sources claim nearly 700 curves in its 36-mile span. Built with picks, shovels, and mule-drawn Fresno scrapers, the road hugged the ridgelines to avoid drainage issues and minimize earthwork. This alignment, while cost-effective, resulted in a serpentine path that challenged both drivers and their vehicles. The Ridge Route quickly became a vital artery for commerce and travel, replacing slower and less reliable routes. It facilitated the transport of goods between the agricultural heartland of the Central Valley and the bustling port of Los Angeles, fostering economic growth and connecting communities. Before the Ridge Route, the journey between Los Angeles and Bakersfield could take up to 10 hours, a grueling expedition over rough and unpredictable roads. The Ridge Route slashed that travel time, making it possible to traverse the distance in a fraction of the time. This newfound efficiency not only boosted trade but also spurred tourism, as travelers from across the country flocked to experience the scenic wonders of California. The Ridge Route was more than just a road; it was a symbol of progress and connectivity. However, the Ridge Route's reign as the primary north-south artery was relatively short-lived. As automotive technology advanced and traffic volumes increased, the road's limitations became increasingly apparent. Its narrow width, sharp curves, and steep grades made it difficult to navigate, especially for larger vehicles. In 1933, the Ridge Route Alternate, later known as U.S. Route 99, was opened, bypassing much of the original route. This new highway offered a straighter, wider, and less challenging path, quickly eclipsing the Ridge Route in popularity. With the opening of the Ridge Route Alternate, the original road was relegated to a scenic side route, largely forgotten by mainstream travelers. Over time, sections of the road fell into disrepair, succumbing to the elements and the ravages of time. Despite its diminished role, the Ridge Route retained a special place in the hearts of those who remembered its heyday. Its historical significance was recognized in 1997 when a significant portion of the road was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the Ridge Route Historical Marker serves as a poignant reminder of this bygone era. Located near Castaic, the marker commemorates the road's construction, its impact on California's development, and the challenges faced by early road builders. While much of the original route is no longer accessible to modern vehicles, the marker provides a tangible link to the past, allowing visitors to reflect on the ingenuity and perseverance of those who carved this road out of the mountains. Visiting the Ridge Route Historical Marker offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The area is characterized by rolling hills, vast skies, and a sense of tranquility that contrasts sharply with the hustle and bustle of modern life. Take a moment to imagine what it must have been like to travel this road in the early days of motoring, when cars were less reliable, roads were less forgiving, and the journey was as much a part of the adventure as the destination. The Ridge Route Historical Marker is more than just a roadside attraction; it is a symbol of California's pioneering spirit and its commitment to progress. It is a reminder that even the most ambitious projects can be surpassed by new technologies and changing needs, but that the lessons learned and the memories created along the way will endure for generations to come. As you stand at the marker, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of the Ridge Route and the visionaries who made it a reality. The Ridge Route's story is a microcosm of California's own transformation, from a frontier outpost to a global economic powerhouse. It is a story of innovation, determination, and the relentless pursuit of progress. By preserving the memory of the Ridge Route, we honor the past and inspire future generations to embrace challenges and push the boundaries of what is possible. The Ridge Route Historical Marker is a place for reflection, appreciation, and a celebration of the human spirit.

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