Commentary: Highway bandits, Charles Lindbergh and the 700 curves; The story of the Ridge Route over Tejon Pass
Two versions of the Ridge Route over the Tejon Pass were built before the Interstate 5 was completed in 1970, connecting L.A.
Reported by 1 outlet — LA Times California. See all sources ↓
The Ridge Route was a mountain road over Tejon Pass that linked Los Angeles with California’s Central Valley. It had about seven hundred curves and was known for highway bandits in the early 1900s. Aviator Charles Lindbergh once flew low over the road while testing aircraft. Two different versions of the road were built before Interstate 5 opened in 1970 and replaced it.
Why it matters
The Ridge Route shows how early engineers dealt with tough terrain and crime to move people and goods. Its replacement by Interstate 5 illustrates how modern highways changed travel in California.
- What was the Ridge Route?
- A winding mountain road over Tejon Pass that connected Los Angeles to the Central Valley.
- Why was it famous for bandits?
- Its remote curves made it an easy spot for thieves to stop travelers in the early 1900s.
- When did Interstate 5 replace it?
- Interstate 5 opened in 1970 and took over the route.
How outlets are framing the same story
Here's how each outlet is covering the story — compare their headlines and timing at a glance.
All outlets present the story in the same way, focusing on the history and replacement of the Ridge Route.
- Coverage card1 outlet1CoverageScouting report
Commentary: Highway bandits, Charles Lindbergh and the 700 curves; The story of the Ridge Route over Tejon Pass
Sources1TypeCoverageLA Times California