Beale's Cut
A historic 1859 pass carved through hills, once vital for wagon trains entering Los Angeles. A glimpse into California's pioneering past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Beale's Cut
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1859 pass carved through hills, once vital for wagon trains entering Los Angeles. A glimpse into California's pioneering past.
"An incredible historic site where wagon trail traffic into Los Angeles used to make it through this bottleneck."
Wear sturdy boots
Loose footing and overgrown trails require good footwear. Shorts are not recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Check current access
The cut may be fenced off or impassable. Verify recent visitor experiences before you go. :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Cut
The main pass itself
A narrow passage carved through the hills, once vital for wagon trains. Now a glimpse into California's past.
Wagon Trail Carvings
Southwest side of the cut
See the actual marks left by wagons on the rock face, a tangible connection to 19th-century pioneers.
Remnants of History
Surrounding area
Discover old water tanks, graffiti, and hints of abandoned structures, adding an adventurous layer to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Beale's Cut
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy boots
Loose footing and overgrown trails require good footwear. Shorts are not recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Check current access
The cut may be fenced off or impassable. Verify recent visitor experiences before you go. :warning:
Be aware of surroundings
Some areas may have homeless individuals or limited cell service. Stay vigilant. :eyes:
Drone views are stunning
Capture the scale and history from above. :camerawithflash:
abandoned locations?
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy boots
Loose footing and overgrown trails require good footwear. Shorts are not recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Check current access
The cut may be fenced off or impassable. Verify recent visitor experiences before you go. :warning:
Be aware of surroundings
Some areas may have homeless individuals or limited cell service. Stay vigilant. :eyes:
Drone views are stunning
Capture the scale and history from above. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Beale's Cut is recognized for its significant historical value as a former wagon pass, with visitors appreciating the tangible remnants of the past like trail carvings. However, recent access issues, overgrowth, and potential fencing have made direct exploration difficult for some, leading to mixed experiences.
"Interesting quick and adventurous little hike. It did take about a half hour up and back. There was a nice tree about 2/3 the way up to get some shade. The hike is not a beginners hike, some footing is very loose, good balance is required, the trail is barely a game trail. The trail was quite overgrown, shorts are not recommended, good boots are. The hardest part of the trail was the beginning and the end. Glad I went on this little adventure. Could always hear road traffic. Always had cell service."
Ryan Briggs
"Cant hike through anymore. It looks like one of the sides caved in. But still a nice hike up to the cut."
The Kehoe Show
"An incredible historic site. All the wagon trail traffic into and out of Los Angeles used to make it through this bottleneck. On the Southwest side you can trek the wagon trails still carved into the rock and see the cut lines left on the rock face from where they used to lower them using a series of breakaway ropes. Hence the need for the “Cut.” On the North side of the cut you’ll find the old Oil Refinery, I believe the first in LA County and victim of a plane crash many many years ago that caused quite an explosion. This of course, a greater risk due to most of Canyon Country and Newhall area hillsides being covered with rocket fuel and munitions making facilities and mines. Tons of world changing history right where the 5/14 split sits. Mulholland’s water heist (the Cascades less than 2 miles Southeast); his fatal debacle at St. Francis Dam (approximately 25 mins. North up San Francisquito Cyn.), the first gold in CA found at nearby Oak of the Golden Dream, gold found only after a well to do type discovered oil seeps in the ground. Imagine. Finding gold covered in oil, both just bursting from the Earth as if she were in the pangs. What a time..."
C.S. S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beale's Cut is located near the split of the I-5 and CA-14 freeways in Santa Clarita, California. Access points can be tricky due to its location and potential fencing. It's best to research current access conditions before heading out.
Parking can be limited and informal in the vicinity. Be prepared to find a safe spot off the main roads and be mindful of any posted restrictions.
Recent reports indicate that hiking through the cut may be difficult or impossible due to fencing and overgrowth. However, you can often hike up to the cut for views.
Public transport options to Beale's Cut are limited. It's primarily a destination best reached by private vehicle.
Beale's Cut is situated near the junction of the I-5 and CA-14 freeways, making it relatively accessible by car from the greater Los Angeles area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Beale's Cut is an outdoor historical site and does not require tickets for entry. Access may be restricted by fencing in certain areas.
As an outdoor historical site, Beale's Cut does not have set opening or closing hours. However, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee to visit Beale's Cut. It's a free historical landmark.
Access to certain parts of Beale's Cut may be restricted by fences. Visitors should respect any posted signs and barriers.
While there are no official operating hours, visitors should be mindful of private property and any temporary access restrictions. Some areas may be fenced off.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic cut itself, the wagon trail carvings on the rock face, and aerial views from a drone offer fantastic photographic opportunities. 
Drone photography is possible and offers unique perspectives of the cut and surrounding landscape. Always check local drone regulations before flying.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best light for photography, offering softer shadows and a more dramatic atmosphere.
Yes, the graffiti on the water tank and surrounding areas is a notable feature for photographers interested in urban art and decay.
While generally open for photography, be aware of any private property or security cameras that might be present.
🎫 📜 History & Significance
Beale's Cut was a significant pass carved in 1859 to facilitate wagon traffic into Los Angeles, reducing the difficulty of crossing the mountains. It's a key piece of California's early transportation history.
The cut is named after Lt. Edward F. Beale, who was instrumental in surveying and developing routes through the area during the mid-19th century.
It was a vital route for pioneers, gold seekers, and early settlers traveling to and from Southern California. The area also has ties to early oil exploration.
Historically, there were brass plaques detailing the site's significance. However, recent visitor reports indicate these may be missing.
It significantly eased the journey for wagon trains, making the passage through the mountains more manageable and opening up the region for settlement and commerce.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do visit, focus on the historical significance and the visible remnants of the past. The idea of wagons passing through this narrow cut can spark imagination. Ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear and stays close together, especially if exploring areas with limited cell service.
🚶 Adventurous Hikers
Expect the most challenging parts to be at the beginning and end of the ascent. While you might hear road traffic, the historical context and the ruggedness of the path offer a unique outdoor experience. Remember to wear sturdy boots and be mindful of the terrain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Pass
While the primary cut may be challenging to traverse today due to overgrowth and potential fencing, the surrounding area still holds historical intrigue. Visitors can often find remnants of wagon trails etched into the rock on the southwest side, showcasing the precise paths taken by those who relied on this route. The presence of old water tanks, often adorned with graffiti, adds a layer of modern history and urban exploration to the site.
It's important to approach Beale's Cut with an understanding of its current state. While the historical significance is immense, recent visitor accounts suggest that direct passage through the cut might be blocked. Nevertheless, the opportunity to witness this piece of California history, even from the periphery, remains a compelling draw for those interested in the state's pioneering past.
Navigating Access and Safety
Furthermore, some visitors have noted that the cut may be fenced off, limiting direct access. It's crucial to check recent visitor experiences and be prepared for potential restrictions. There have also been mentions of encountering individuals who may be experiencing homelessness in the vicinity, and in some spots, cell service can be spotty. Staying aware of your surroundings and prioritizing safety is paramount.
Despite these potential challenges, many find the adventure worthwhile. The historical context and the unique landscape offer a rewarding experience for those willing to navigate the conditions. Always inform someone of your plans and consider visiting during daylight hours for better visibility and safety.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit