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An abandoned railroad in Arizona, known as one of the most dangerous in the world since 1959, has received a visit. Understand the dangers that this railway line posed and why it was considered so deadly!
Os United States have a long history of territorial expansion, largely driven by the construction of railways that connected different regions of the country. One of these lines, however, stands out not only for its importance hhistorical, but also by the dangers that surrounded it: the Johnson Canyon Railroad in Arizona.
The beginning of railroads in the USA: Railroad construction in the United States began in the 1820s, primarily on the East Coast. For nearly a century, several private companies were responsible for expanding this network, creating essential connections for development. economic and territorial.
In 1917, with the entry of the United States into First World War, These railways were nationalized for a period of three years, aiming to optimize logistics and the transportation of troops and supplies.
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Challenges of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad
Among the companies involved in this expansion was the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad, which had the ambitious mission of connecting the country from coast to coast. One of the most challenging stretches was in Johnson Canyon, Arizona.
Construction in this area was difficult not only because of the mountainous terrain, but also because of the presence of basalt, a volcanic rock that made drilling and laying the tracks difficult.
In addition to natural challenges, the Johnson Canyon railroad faced ongoing problems after its opening in 1882.
The region was prone to rock slides, fires, and explosions. Shootings were also not uncommon, reflecting the turmoil of the Wild West at the time.
The end of a dangerous era
Because of these persistent problems, the Johnson Canyon Railroad has been called one of the most dangerous in the United States.
Operations were finally abandoned in 1959, and the tracks were removed. What remains today is a mountainous route that passes through the old Johnson Canyon Tunnel, which was once the site of a spectacular fire.
Exploring History Today
Today, the old railway route attracts adventurers and history enthusiasts who want to explore the site. Recently, the canal Sidetrack Adventures has released a video that takes you along this former railroad line, providing a unique look into Johnson Canyon's dangerous and fascinating past.
For those interested in learning more about this intriguing part of US railroad history, the video is worth checking out. Watch it below.
Check out excerpts from the video that show the current route where the old railway line used to run.
The Johnson Canyon Tunnel entrance, one of the most challenging sections of the railroad, took a year to complete.
Even after almost 60 years of abandonment, the tunnel remains in an excellent state of preservation. The iron roof, a peculiar feature, was installed after a fire in 1898, which caused rocks to collapse and resulted in the death of two workers.
Along the trail, you can see the remains of a guardhouse built during World War II. To protect this strategic route, an artillery position was installed outside the tunnel to defend it against possible attacks.
Some abandoned railways are now used in projects such as green trails, where old railway beds are converted into cycling and pedestrian routes, contributing to local leisure and tourism.
However, many of these spaces are still in disrepair, with aging infrastructure and overgrown tracks, while debate over their potential reuse for sustainable transportation projects or historic conservation continues in some American communities.
These remnants of the railroad past remain as a reminder of the crucial role railroads played in the economic and social development of the United States.
