Where can you find the shortest railroad in the Western Hemisphere?

Located in Los Angeles California’s Bunker Hill area, Angel's Flight is the shortest railway in the world. Travelling only 298 feet from Hill Street up to California Plaza and Grand Avenue, this little funicular (inclined) narrow gauge railway is not only a classic LA landmark but also one of the cheapest attractions in town. For just a dollar you can save your aching legs a steep uphill hike.

Rather than being pulled by a conventional locomotive, two cars (named Olivet and Sinai after mountains in Palestine) are hauled up and down between Hill and Grand via a cable system.

The railroad initially operated less than a block away from the current location. From 1901 to 1969 it ran between Hill and Olive streets. However, in 1969 the tracks and both boarding stations were dismantled, and along with the cars, were put into storage for what was supposed to be 2 years, but turned out to be 27. The reason for the shutdown was a controversial urban renewal project. The railway re-opened, still using the original cars and stations, at the new (current) location in 1996.

Like many conventional railroads, Angel’s Flight has had its share of mishaps. Due to a fatal accident in 2001 it was closed for 9 years. In 2013, there was a minor derailing incident; there were no injuries at that time, but it did (thankfully) lead to a major overhaul.

In 2017 Angel’s Flight commenced operations again. It is truly an LA icon.

The photo shows the interior of an original car.