This is a former Southern Pacific line that 'barely' survived the Union Pacific merger in 1995. It originally connected SP's line between California and the Northwest, with the 'Transcontinental' line from central California through Nevada into Utah.
As of June, 2003, the tracks are still in place as far south as Bayley siding in California. Between Alturas and Bayley, the tracks are used for freight car storage, with reporting marks from many of the companies UP has acquired over the years.
Near the US 395 grade crossing at Likely (photo above), a switch broom was still attached to a relay cabinet, but the switch itself had been removed. Also in the area, a field is being used by A-K Railroad Materials to stockpile recovered ties for sale. Further south, at Sage Hen hill, stacks of ties line the r-o-w.
From Madeline south, the ties, tieplates and most of the spikes remain, while the rails appear to have been removed just days earlier.
This view shows 'everything but the rails' at Madeline, CA.
Photo from June 2003 courtesy Craig Bass.
This is what is left of the US 395 grade crossing at Likely, CA. Discarded rails are at the side of the right of way.
Photo from June 2003 courtesy Craig Bass.
End of track at Bayley, CA.
<< Facing N, with stored cars and stock loading ramp visible.
>>Facing south.
Photos from July 2003 courtesy Craig Bass.
^ Well-maintained track near Honey Lake Valley facing Wendel in the distance.
<< Track removal equipment near Moran.
Photos from July 2003 courtesy Craig Bass.
