Hike to the Goat Canyon Trestle

The main attraction of this hike is the wooden trestle. This engineering marvel was built in 1932 and still remains the tallest and longest curved wooden trestle in the U.S.

This hike is recommended for the physically and mentally prepared. From Mortero Palms, it's a 3.5 mile (7 miles roundtrip) treacherous hike to the trestle over the Jacumba mountains. The hike culminates with a descent down a dry waterfall some describe as class 3 climbing.

Although the hike is challenging, especially in the dark, If you are wiling to experience it, the night sky is stunning here.

Access the Motero Palms trailhead via Mortero Canyon Road (dirt road). It is recommended you take a 4x4 vehicle, but can be accessed by regular vehicles with some creativity. You must be able to cross railroad tracks with your vehicle on this road. Once you are there, the trailhead begins at Mortero palms. The trail ends at the trestle. From here, feel free to explore or enjoy the views.