Eucalyptus Trees.......They Do Get Weary

A collection of SP MK rebuilds works a train at South Fontana, California - June 2003

It has been estimated that if Cajon Pass had not existed, then a crossing of the San Gabriels would have required an ascent to at least 5,000 ft.  Certainly nothing was going to cross the mountains in the vicinity of Pomona or Fontana. Above you can see almost the sheer vertical wall of Ontario and Cucamonga Peaks. Inexperienced hikers often venture into these mountains, and very quickly get into trouble. The big outdoor sign is aimed at motorists on Interstate 10, and the poor straggly Eucalyptus trees show their years long battle with the fierce Santa Ana Winds. These winds increase markedly in intensity to the east, as the ridge of the San Gabriels declines greatly towards Lytle Creek, and Cajon Pass.