Transforming Tracks: Old Railroads Become Scenic Trails in SLO County
This scenic trail offers breathtaking views of San Luis Obispo’s natural beauty, blending history with outdoor activity for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. (Photo/Virginia Hatch) On a crisp morning in San Luis Obispo, walkers and cyclists navigate a newly transformed trail where train tracks used to be. Families stroll past old railroad signs preserved as markers of history, while a group of runners chats as they move along the scenic route. Once a pathway for industry, the trail now buzzes with life, showcasing a growing trend of converting railways into places of recreation across the country. The concept of converting unused railroads into trails, commonly known as “rails-to-trails,” is not new. Nationwide, organizations such as the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy have supported this effort, creating more than 41,000 miles of multi-use trail across the United States. Locally, San Luis Obispo is embracing the idea with enthusiasm, recognizing the potential these projects hold for b...