Java Creek Bridge

Shortly, we will be crossing the Java East Bridge over the Flathead River. As we cross the trestle, there are dramatic views of the river and valley on both sides of the train. The Java East Bridge marks the place where we leave the Middle Fork of the Flathead River and begin traveling up a steepening grade to the summit of Marias Pass. The double track main line we will be traveling on is constructed of continuous welded rail and concrete ties. This is one of the smoother mountain railroad right-of-ways in the United States. This is the most southerly point of Glacier National Park. 

This is a Pratt deck truss bridge over the Middle Fork of the Flathead River & Java Creek on Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railroad's Hi-Line Subdivision. The bridge was built in 1900. The bridge has undoubtedly been strengthened, but not replaced, since original construction. The total Length is 740 Feet. The length of the longest span is 225 Feet.

Photo taken by Charles Kuehn, May 2010