Original railroad bed near Del Mar, CA

The railroad line that runs from San Diego to Los Angeles has seen many changes since it was originally constructed the early 1880’s. One of those changes was at the Los Penasquitos Marsh, otherwise known as Soledad Marsh. Originally, the railroad went around the marsh, passing along the hills to the north instead of going directly through as it does today. This realignment took place in 1925. The portion of the alignment crossing the marsh is still used as a utility right-of-way. The majority of the line outside the marsh has long since been redeveloped into housing.

Other than the short section of original right-of-way remaining, the only other trace of the route is through property lines. This lasting section of right-of-way represents one of the last section of intact original grade within the City of San Diego.

Slightly rehabilitated section of the roadbed.
Slightly rehabilitated section of the roadbed.

Remnants of the railroad include a short section of cut, some grading, and a culvert. These remnants are mostly in the area along Caminito Mar Villa, a private roadway. Use caution if you choose to explore this area.

Roadbed of the California Southern Railroad, bypassed in the 1930's.
Roadbed of the California Southern Railroad, bypassed in the 1930’s.
Original railroad culvert used by the current roadway.
Original railroad culvert used by the current roadway.

One thought on “Original railroad bed near Del Mar, CA”

  1. There is a set of aerial photographs for the winter 1928/1929 that show the railroad track had already been relocated to Soledad Marsh.

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