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 both residents and visitors.

One of the most prominent examples in the area is the Bob Jones Trail, also known as the City-to-Sea Trail. This beloved path, which partially follows an old Pacific Coast Railway route, offers a car-free, scenic experience between San Luis Obispo and Avila Beach. Winding through rich landscapes, vineyards, and the San Luis Obispo Creek, the trail is a retreat for cyclists, joggers, and walkers. Efforts are underway to extend the trail from San Luis Obispo to Avila Beach, creating a passage that honors the area’s transportation history while promoting sustainable recreation.

Another emerging project is the Anza Trail, continuing north from Santa Barbara. While not entirely a rails-to-trails initiative, it incorporates segments of historic transportation routes, offering users a chance to explore the region’s rich history. Trails like these highlight the dual appeal of cultural education and recreation, drawing visitors who seek both exercise and a deeper connection to the area’s past.

The transformation of railroad tracks into trails offers many benefits. Environmentally, it repurposes land that might otherwise decline or remain unused. Trails provide green passages that support local ecosystems, offering habitats for wildlife and passages for pollinators. According to Terry Eastin of American Trails, they attract tourism, boost local businesses, and increase property values. Socially, they foster community by creating shared spaces for events and leisure, encouraging healthier lifestyles and outdoor engagement.

However, these projects are not without challenges. Acquiring land rights and securing funding can be a complex, on-going process requiring years of work. In San Luis Obispo, local advocacy groups, governments, and private donors have played tremendous roles in advancing these initiatives. Public opinion has been critical, ensuring trails meet the needs of diverse users, such as families with strollers. A significant hurdle for the Bob Jones Trail, for example, has been the difficulty in securing easements for privately owned land along the proposed path. Negotiations with landowners have caused delays, emphasizing the intricate balance required to navigate private property rights while pursuing public recreation goals.

The Pacific Coast Railway, once a pillar for San Luis Obispo County, played a crucial role in connecting the region’s agricultural economy to the broader market. Established in the late 19th century, the narrow railway transported goods like produce and dairy from inland farms to the bustling shipping port in Avila Beach. Key figures like Ah Louis, a prominent Chinese-American entrepreneur, were involved in its construction and operation, securing its importance to the local economy. However, by the mid-20th century, advancements in road transportation and the decline of coastal shipping made the railway unavailable. The tracks were gradually abandoned, but their legacy endures, as efforts to repurpose these routes into walking and hiking trails breathe new life into the pathways once traveled by steam engines.

The proposed extension of the Bob Jones Trail includes a critical link that would allow users to bike safely from San Luis Obispo to Avila Beach, eliminating the need to navigate busy roadways and reducing the risk of car accidents. This car-free route not only enhances safety but also encourages sustainable transportation, offering residents and visitors a stress-free way to enjoy the scenic journey from the city to the coast.