A backshunt is a railway track configuration in situations where a change in (almost opposite) direction is required and a traditional curve cannot fit. There are two main applications of a backshunt. To climb or drop a steep incline using a Zig zag (railway) To change direction on to a parallel track, often used in industrial sidings. Example Backshunts Part of the old Cleator and Workington Junction Railway was maintained in Rowrah as a backshunt from Rowrah Head Quarry on to the Whitehaven, Cleator and Egremont Railway. (Google Maps Overlay) See also Headshunt References Railway track layouts