Southern California’s regional passenger rail network and the modern evolution of commuter rail transportation in the nation’s second-largest metropolitan area.
Overview
Metrolink is Southern California’s regional commuter rail system, connecting six counties through a network of rail corridors that link residential communities with major employment centers, educational institutions, transportation hubs, and cultural destinations.
Since beginning operation in 1992, Metrolink has become a vital part of Southern California’s transportation infrastructure, providing an alternative to the region’s heavily traveled freeway network while preserving and expanding the role of passenger rail in Southern California.
In October 2022, the regional network expanded with the launch of Arrow, a San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) service operated by Metrolink between San Bernardino and Redlands. While marketed under a separate brand, Arrow functions as part of the broader Southern California regional rail network and represents the latest chapter in passenger rail investment throughout the region.
For Western Rail Archive, Metrolink and Arrow represent the present and future of Southern California passenger rail, while also reflecting the legacy of the region’s historic railroads.
Quick Facts
| System Name | Metrolink |
| Service Began | 1992 |
| Headquarters | Los Angeles, California |
| Primary Service Type | Regional Commuter Rail |
| Counties Served | Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, and northern San Diego counties |
| Current Operating Lines | Antelope Valley; Ventura County; San Bernardino; Riverside; Orange County; Inland Empire-Orange County; 91/Perris Valley |
| Associated Service | Arrow (SBCTA service operated by Metrolink) |
| Primary Hub | Los Angeles Union Station |
Historical Background
Origins
The Southern California region was once served by an extensive network of passenger rail services operated by private railroads, including Southern Pacific, the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway, Union Pacific, and Pacific Electric.
As automobile ownership increased and freeway construction accelerated during the twentieth century, many passenger services disappeared. By the late twentieth century, worsening traffic congestion prompted renewed interest in passenger rail transportation.
Creation of Metrolink
Metrolink began operation in 1992 as a regional commuter rail network designed to connect major Southern California population centers.
The system initially focused on providing commuter access to downtown Los Angeles while utilizing existing railroad rights-of-way that had originally been developed by freight railroads decades earlier. The network expanded steadily over time, eventually reaching communities throughout Southern California.
Modern Expansion
By the 2020s, Metrolink had evolved beyond a traditional commuter railroad. The agency increasingly emphasized reverse commuting, weekend travel, special events, airport connectivity, student travel, and broader regional mobility.
Introduction of Arrow
Arrow service was introduced in San Bernardino County to provide modern passenger rail service between San Bernardino and Redlands. The service reconnects communities that have historically played important roles in California railroad history.
The Metrolink Network
Antelope Valley Line
Connects Los Angeles with Glendale, Santa Clarita, Palmdale, Lancaster, and communities throughout northern Los Angeles County.
Ventura County Line
Follows historic Southern Pacific routes through the San Fernando Valley through Simi Valley toward Moorpark, Camarillo, Oxnard, and Ventura (Oxnard & Ventura).
San Bernardino Line
Connects downtown Los Angeles with communities including El Monte, Covina, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, and San Bernardino.
Riverside Line
Provides service between Los Angeles, Industry, and Riverside County.
Orange County Line
Links Los Angeles with Fullerton, Anaheim, Irvine, San Juan Capistrano, and other Orange County communities, continuing to Oceanside in northern San Diego County.
Inland Empire-Orange County Line
Connects Inland Empire communities directly with Orange County destinations.
91/Perris Valley Line
Opened as the 91 Line in 2002 and extended to Perris in June 2016, the line connects Los Angeles and Fullerton with Riverside, Moreno Valley, Perris, and additional communities along the corridor.
Arrow Service
Overview
Arrow operates between San Bernardino and Redlands and serves communities in the eastern portion of the Inland Empire. It connects with the broader Metrolink network at San Bernardino–Downtown station.
Why Arrow Matters
- Restores passenger rail access to communities with historic railroad roots
- Supports regional mobility
- Encourages transit-oriented development
- Expands transportation options within the Inland Empire
Equipment and Operations
Locomotives
Metrolink has operated several generations of diesel-electric locomotives throughout its history. These locomotives have become familiar sights across Southern California and are popular subjects for rail photographers.
Passenger Cars
Metrolink’s fleet has included cab cars and passenger coaches designed for high-capacity regional service. The trains’ distinctive livery has become part of the visual identity of Southern California passenger rail.
Arrow Equipment
Arrow uses modern self-propelled Stadler FLIRT diesel multiple units designed for efficient service on a shorter regional corridor. Its equipment differs noticeably from traditional locomotive-hauled Metrolink trains.
Why Metrolink Matters
Metrolink preserved and expanded passenger rail in Southern California during a period when the region remained heavily dependent on highways. The system supports regional mobility, preserves important rail corridors, and reconnects communities through passenger transportation.
Railfan and Photography Information
What to Photograph
- Push-pull commuter train operations
- Station architecture
- Rail crossings
- Mountain and desert scenery
- Coastal operations
- Special event trains
- Arrow equipment
### Notable Viewing Locations
- Los Angeles Union Station
- Fullerton
- Glendale
- Oceanside
- San Bernardino
- Redlands
- Oxnard & Ventura
- Simi Valley
- Lancaster
Safety
- Remain in public areas
- Follow posted regulations
- Respect railroad operations
- Never enter track areas
- Use designated crossings and platforms
Safety should always take priority over photography.
Relationship to Southern California Railroad History
Modern Metrolink routes operate over corridors historically associated with Southern Pacific, Santa Fe, Union Pacific, and various predecessor railroads. Today’s commuter trains often pass former depots, freight facilities, junctions, and railroad landmarks that remain important subjects for historical research.
Related Railroads
- Amtrak
- Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway
- BNSF Railway
- COASTER / SPRINTER
- Pacific Electric Railway
- Southern Pacific Railroad
- Union Pacific Railroad
Related Locations
- Fullerton
- Glendale
- Lancaster
- Los Angeles Union Station
- Oceanside
- Oxnard & Ventura
- Perris
- Pomona
- Redlands
- Riverside
- San Bernardino
- Simi Valley
- Temecula / Murrieta
Related Museums
Gallery
Photo gallery coming soon.
- Metrolink locomotives
- Cab cars and coaches
- Arrow operations
- Station photography
- Night photography
- Historic comparisons
- Special event operations
- Regional landscapes
Western Rail Archive Notes
Metrolink and Arrow demonstrate how passenger rail remains relevant in the twenty-first century. While rooted in corridors established by nineteenth- and twentieth-century railroads, today’s trains serve a modern Southern California whose transportation needs continue to evolve. Together, they represent one of the most significant ongoing railroad stories in the American West and form a cornerstone of the Western Rail Archive collection.
Archive Status
| Page Status | Category | Type | Gallery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundational Article | Railroads | Commuter / Regional Rail | In Development |