Beaumont Hill

[Anonymous]

I have heard of a great place called Beaumont Hill. Does anybody have any info on it?

[andrechapelon]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Cajon Kid

I have heard of a great place called Beaumont Hill. Does anybody have any info on it?

Not offhand, but John Signor does. He wrote a book entitled "Beaumont Hill". AFAIK, the book is out of print. The ISBN number is 0-87095-105-X. It was published by Golden West Books in 1990.

I found a used copy on Amazon for $299.95.

Makes me thankful I bought my copy when it first came out.

Andre

[Anonymous]

Beaumont Pass is on the UP (nee SP) between Palm Springs and Colton on the Sunset Route. It's a hill that occasionally utilizes helpers. Much of the RR is right next to I10 or within sight of it. Heavy traffic-mostly intermodals, and ATK 1&2 occasionally, some of which are actually moving. Double track now, with some sidings also thrown in. And for an added bonus you get to experience miles and miles of very impressive wind farm and occasionally some of the worst dust storms outside west TX. Not a rugged mountain grade like Cajon, but a long heavy pull like Sherman. Two thumbs up[tup][tup]

There are NO hills associated with the Beaumont on the other end of the Sunset Route, although I've seen some fire ant mounds there that could pass for hills[:D]

[Anonymous]

The grade from Colton to Beaumont is 1.89% and the grade from the Salton Sea to Beaumont is 1.99%. The scenery that is famous is San Timeon Canyon which follows the railroad from Colton to Beaumont, albeit sometimes it's hidden by orange groves. It is not as popular as the other sights near by but it is an enjoyable day trip for watching Union Pacific trains. Also you can head back to Pepper Street and look at Colton Yard and lots of yard action. Beyond Beaumont to Yuma is barren and desolate railroad, even going through some large sand dunes....with very little access. I found the branch line off the Sunset Route to the Coachella Valley to be extremely interesting for switching.

[tjsmrinfo]

there is a video out produced by video rails i think i have the tape but cant find it to let you know for sure. but it covers the entire line of beaumont hill even has maps and siding locations on it.
hope this helps

tom