Bloomer Cut Transcontinental Railroad
A historic 1864 railroad cut, largely unchanged and still in use by Union Pacific and Amtrak. A testament to early engineering.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for clear views
Bloomer Cut Transcontinental Railroad
Best Time
Best for clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1864 railroad cut, largely unchanged and still in use by Union Pacific and Amtrak. A testament to early engineering.
"Impressive to see this held up for all these years! Be careful going through as it is an active track."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Boots
The trail is steep and rocky. Hiking boots are highly recommended to avoid slips and injuries.
⚠️ Stay Clear of Tracks
This is an active rail line. Always be aware of train traffic and stay a safe distance from the tracks.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 16 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Bloomer Cut
The main excavation site
Marvel at this 1864 engineering feat, largely unchanged and still in use today. A testament to early railroad construction.
Panoramic Views
West end of the cut
Enjoy a great vantage point looking down into the impressive cut from the western approach.
Active Rail Line
The tracks themselves
Witness a piece of living history as Union Pacific and Amtrak trains still traverse this iconic route daily.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Crucial
Respect Active Tracks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Boots
The trail is steep and rocky. Hiking boots are highly recommended to avoid slips and injuries.
⚠️ Stay Clear of Tracks
This is an active rail line. Always be aware of train traffic and stay a safe distance from the tracks.
🤫 Be Considerate
Keep noise levels down to avoid disturbing local residents.
📸 Use a Telephoto Lens
For the best photo angles of the cut, a telephoto lens is recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Boots
The trail is steep and rocky. Hiking boots are highly recommended to avoid slips and injuries.
⚠️ Stay Clear of Tracks
This is an active rail line. Always be aware of train traffic and stay a safe distance from the tracks.
🤫 Be Considerate
Keep noise levels down to avoid disturbing local residents.
📸 Use a Telephoto Lens
For the best photo angles of the cut, a telephoto lens is recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are impressed by the Bloomer Cut's historical significance and its largely unchanged state since 1864, noting it as a remarkable feat of engineering. However, the steep, rocky trail down requires caution and proper footwear, and awareness of active train traffic is essential for safety.
"Easy trail out there
Between suburban back yards
Then the trail down is rocky/pebbles
Down a 30% grade
I fell and twisted an ankle
I was wearing teva sandals
I recommend boots for this hike"
Bruce Meads
"Really nice hike. This requires more than tennis shoes to be safe. Steep and Rocky Trail. Great view of the cut from the west end. Certainly be sure to stay clear of the tracks and be weary of train traffic. Also keep quiet so as to not disturb local homes. Use a telephoto lens for best photo angles."
Aaron Barkl
"Completed in 1864 by mostly Chinese laborers, this is virtually unchanged and used daily by both Union Pacific Railroad, and Amtrak. An easy walk to see it, but you end up at the top looking straight down at the tracks. Be careful."
Tom Giddings
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bloomer Cut is accessible via a trail that runs between suburban backyards. Parking can be found in the surrounding neighborhoods, but be mindful of local restrictions. The trail itself is relatively easy to find once you're in the vicinity.
Parking is available in the residential areas surrounding the Bloomer Cut. Visitors are advised to be respectful of private property and adhere to any posted parking regulations.
The initial part of the trail is described as easy, but the descent to the cut itself is steep and covered in rocky pebbles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to visit the Bloomer Cut. It is an outdoor historical site accessible to the public.
There are no entrance fees associated with visiting the Bloomer Cut. It's a free historical landmark to explore.
As an outdoor historical site, the Bloomer Cut is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Bloomer Cut is a significant historical engineering feat completed in 1864 as part of the First Transcontinental Railroad. It's known for its impressive excavation and is still actively used by trains today.
While the site is historically significant, visitors must exercise caution. The trail down is steep and rocky, and it's crucial to stay clear of active train tracks.
Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended due to the steep, rocky terrain. Avoid wearing sandals or casual shoes that offer less support and grip.
Absolutely not. The Bloomer Cut is an active railroad line used by Union Pacific and Amtrak. Walking on the tracks is extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited.
Many visitors suggest using a telephoto lens to capture the best angles of the cut from the western end. Be mindful of your surroundings and train movements while taking photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit