SBC Through Your Eyes: National Trails Highway – Welcome to San Bernardino County

"San Bernardino County Update", yellow arrowhead and "SBCounty.gov

A black and white image of a freight train with windmills in the background. The sky is filled with dark and swirling clouds. — *A freight train on National Trails Highway in Oro Grande.*

We would like to thank Bruce Herwig of Yucaipa for submitting a stunning photo of a freight train on National Trails Highway in Oro Grande.

Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, the Will Rogers Highway and the Main Street of America, was established in 1926. The highway stretched from Chicago to Santa Monica. Before it was paved and designed as Route 66, much of the roadway was part of one of the nation’s first transcontinental highways, the National Old Trails Road. In many areas, this early route became known as the National Trails Highway and later formed a large portion of U.S. Route 66.

The road has played an important role in American history. During the Great Depression, families left the Dust Bowl and traveled west to California in search of new opportunities. During World War II, the highway was used to move troops and supplies across the country. Over time, Route 66 became a destination in itself for travelers seeking the freedom of the open road.

Today, more than 250 miles of National Trails Highway, also known as Route 66, can still be found in San Bernardino County. County Public Works maintains nearly 175 miles from Needles to San Bernardino. Although Route 66 is no longer a main route across the country, it remains a national treasure that can be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come.

Travelers exploring this historic stretch can visit popular stops along the route. Among them is Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, a roadside art installation featuring colorful glass bottles mounted on metal trees. You can also visit the California Route 66 Museum, which celebrates the history and culture of the Mother Road.

Additional County Update News – March 5, 2026