Transcontinental Railroad Backcountry Byway (BCB) East Access

The Transcontinental Railroad National Back Country Byway, also known as the Central Pacific Railroad Grade, is administered by the Bureau of Land Management for public use and enjoyment. Due to its unique history and scenic beauty, the Transcontinental Railroad Grade is a designated Area of Critical Environmental Concern and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 90-mile Backcountry Byway begins west of lands managed by the National Park Service at the Golden Spike National Historic Site. The byway follows the old railroad grade through the remnants of railroad sidings, towns, and trestles. You should carry plenty of water, spare tires and be prepared for gravel roads in a remote setting. Today, cattle graze where thousands of Chinese immigrants labored in 1869 to open the West to industry and commerce. The Transcontinental Railroad Back Country Byway is interpreted at over 20 sites along the grade. Enjoy the past as you travel this route on your public lands.

For more information about the history of the Transcontinental Railroad, visit Utah - Transcontinental Railroad | BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT

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West Desert District: Transcontinental Railroad

Adventure is at Your Fingertips

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Activities

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WILDLIFE VIEWING
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HISTORIC SITES
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INFORMATION SITE

Addresses

491 N. John Glenn Rd
Salt Lake City
Utah
84116

Geographic Coordinates

41.58180556, -112.6383056

Directions

Follow SR 83 to Golden Spike National Monument, follow signs for backcountry byway.