Review of Best Rail Trails California: More Than 70 Rail Trails Throughout the State (Falcon Guides Where to Ride Series)

Best Rail Trails California: More Than 70 Rail Trails Throughout the State (Falcon Guides Where to Ride Series)
Average Rating: 5.0 Total Reviews: 1
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Title Change Says it All

On: 2009-06-26

In 2000 the author published an earlier edition of this book, simply titled, Rails to Trails: California. The change in title (now Best Rail Trails) says a lot about the success of one of the most innovative conservation movements in modern times. At one time, of course, much of Americas transport was by rail but for a variety of reasons, that technology was never updated and most rail tracks have been abandoned. However, the public right of way still exists. Rather than myopicly trying to reestablish rail service, as some have suggested, the Rails to Trails Conservancy has instead taken on the task of converting these old routes into bikeways and multiuse urban pathways. By 2000, enough of these routes had been opened to justify a slim volume by veteran outdoor author Tracy Salcedo-Chourre. Nearly a decade later there are so many such routes that a single book cannot do them all justice. So in her revision, which now includes updates from her hiking and biking children, we are now treated to a "best of" collection of hikes and rides.

This book covers rail trails in every part of the state. From the incredible Bizz Johnson trail outside Susanville, to large sections of the Coastal Trail and urban bike paths in San Diego County, each of the well known and well traveled rail trails are described in detail. Mileage, common types of use, difficulty ratings, and reasonably detailed maps are all part of the package this delightful book offers. Of course it cannot describe all such trails. I have found old narrow gauge trails in the San Bernardino Mountains which do not appear in any popular guidebooks. Still, this nice book is a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts and most especially mountain bikers. And, if you find your appetite whetted by the trails you explore in this guidebook, consider giving to the National Rails to Trails Conservancy. It is one of the truly productive conservation groups. Both the book and the Conservancy come highly recommended.