steam train mainline trips

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Vintage Trains

Steam trains on britain’s mainline railway.

Departing from Birmingham, Great Britain to Multiple Scenic Locations in GB

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• Calendar April - Nov

The Shakespeare Express

Prices starting at £15 (excl. booking fees).

Travel by Steam from Birmingham or Stratford-Upon-Avon for a charming day. The journey from Stratford runs at express speeds of up to 75 mph.

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• Calendar March - July
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Express Steam

Experience the nostalgic sight and sound of our record-breaking steam locomotives. Travel in our authentic 1960s vintage Pullman restaurant cars, First or Tourist classes all with large picture windows to enjoy the views. Book Now!

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Book a vintage train journey in the uk.

Vintage Trains runs express steam trains on Britain’s mainline railway.

Experience the nostalgic sights and sounds of an express steam engine speeding through the glorious countryside. Whether you’re sampling our fine dining or simply relaxing in our beautifully restored carriages, you’ll enjoy the sumptuous comfort, charm and character of days gone by — welcome to Vintage Trains. An old fashioned train experience.

Vintage Trains, the 21st century’s only charitably-controlled Train Operating Company, is back where it belongs for 2023 — at speed, on the main line. We have enhanced our offer with a high-quality dining experience , varied menus, authentic Pullman coaches and record-breaking, castles climbing hills running at 75mph. Imagine the chink of cutlery and the smell of freshly-cooked bacon and eggs on your great British breakfast or sipping a glass of Champagne over a four-course dinner, all on a steam-hauled express train. All aboard for our vintage train rides!

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Read reviews from our passengers.

I went with husband today on the Shakespeare Express. We had a wonderful time our ticket included a full breakfast on the outward journey and afternoon tea on the return journey. The food was lovely. The staff were friendly and helpful. I would definitely recommend this for a wonderful day out. Can't wait to go again.

The Polar Express was a great family experience. If you’ve watched the movie then this hits the spot. There’s no CGI or fancy light show just good simple family fun. We loved it, great for younger children who’ve seen the movie.

We went for a ride out to Llandudno on Clun Castle. The whole thing was efficiency run and well organised. I've been on many heritage railways before but being able to ride on a steam train on the main railway lines was something else. Thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience!!!

Truly had the best time, did not really know what to expect but we had a fabulous time. The food was excellent, the staff were incredible and the entertainment was hilarious.. this is something you must get involved with if you want the best experience out of it.. all four of us would definitely do this again.

In the Summer I took my family, husband myself, and one of our children who is in a wheelchair, the staff were AMAZING to us, they were so considerate, helpful. Really cant say a big enough thank you to all of them, it made a beautiful day out even better. Looking forward to the Valentines dinning .....minus the kids x

We had a lovely day on a beautiful steam train by vintage trains all the staff were friendly and helpful from start to finish we dined in a Pullman car it is very recommended.

Call us on 01553 661 500

UK Day Trips 2024

List of services.

Sunday 5th May 2024

EXTRA PREMIER DINING SEATS ADDED

These ever-popular summer day trips by steam train run from Bristol Temple Meads, Yatton and Taunton to Devon & Cornwall. 

Saturday 11th May 2024

The Cumbrian Mountain Express provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and about with the added bonus of steam haulage over the Northern Fells, including the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway.

Saturday 18th May 2024

Join us on board this special steam hauled train using a locomotive from the Carnforth pool, running at speed both ways from York to Edinburgh and return.

Sunday 19th May 2024

This is a rare opportunity to travel by steam train over the scenic branch line from Whitland through Tenby to Pembroke Dock. 

Saturday 25th May 2024

The Mancunian is a special train running from Manchester and Stockport to Holyhead.

Saturday 1st June 2024

Our journey will combine the scenic grandeur of the Cumbrian Fells with the exposed Cumbrian coastline that skirts the western edge of the Lake District. 

Saturday 8th June 2024

Join us for an interesting trip from London’s King’s Cross to travel steam hauled on the Blyth and Tyne line to Morpeth. 

Saturday 15th June 2024

The Bath & Bristol Steam Express offers the opportunity for passengers from the South Coast to visit either Bath or Bristol. 

Saturday 22nd June 2024

Wednesday 26th June 2024

A unique experience awaits those who join this day trip by steam train to Swanage. 

Saturday 29th June 2024

This tour offers a wonderful opportunity to travel by a special charter train to the historic city of Chester. 

Saturday 6th July 2024

This trip provides an opportunity for passengers from London and the Midlands to travel steam hauled over the very scenic North Wales Coast line. 

Sunday 7th July 2024

This summer series of steam hauled trains provides an opportunity for passengers from York, Leeds and the Aire Valley to travel over the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway.

Tuesday 9th July 2024

This day trip by steam train provides a unique opportunity to visit the Yeovil Railway Centre and the popular seaside resort of Weymouth for the afternoon.  

Saturday 13th July 2024

Join us for an exillerating main line steam run from London’s King’s Cross to the historic city of York. 

This is a wonderful opportunity for passengers from Merseyside and Lancashire to travel by steam train over two of England’s most scenic railway routes.

Sunday 14th July 2024

The North Wales Coast Express is a special steam hauled summer train that runs from Liverpool and Chester to Holyhead. 

Saturday 20th July 2024

This series of trains from London Paddington to Minehead features haulage by two steam locomotives in one day. 

Wednesday 24th July 2024

We are offering a number of attractive summer day trips from London to Weymouth by steam train. 

Sunday 28th July 2024

Wednesday 31st July 2024

We are offering a number of attractive summer day trips from London to Weymouth by steam train.

Saturday 3rd August 2024

The Cumbrian Mountain Express provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and about with the added bonus of steam haulage over the Northern Fells, including the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway. 

Sunday 4th August 2024

This summer series of steam hauled trains provides an opportunity for passengers from York, Leeds and the Aire Valley to travel over the spectacular Settle & Carlisle Railway

Wednesday 7th August 2024

This day trip by steam train provides an interesting day out to the historic city of Canterbury and the popular north Kent coast resorts. 

Saturday 10th August 2024

Thursday 15th August 2024

Sunday 18th August 2024

These ever-popular summer day trips by steam train run from Bristol Temple Meads, Yatton and Taunton to Devon & Cornwall.

Saturday 24th August 2024

This is a wonderful opportunity for those from the Crewe and Manchester areas to travel by steam train over two of England’s most scenic railway routes. 

Join us on this scenic rail tour by steam train through the beautiful Cotswold Hills. Our destination is the cathedral city of Worcester.

Sunday 1st September 2024

Wednesday 4th September 2024

This day trip by steam train provides an interesting day out to the historic city of Canterbury and the popular north Kent coast resorts.

Saturday 7th September 2024

The Stratford Flyer will give passengers from East Anglia a wonderful opportunity to travel from Norfolk to the internationally recognised destination of Stratford upon Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. 

Sunday 8th September 2024

Wednesday 11th September 2024

Saturday 14th September 2024

Saturday 21st September 2024

The “Coast to Coast Express” is a day trip by special train travelling from Liverpool to Scarborough and back, thus linking the Irish Sea with the North Sea.

Saturday 28th September 2024

Join us on this classic rail journey, following part the route of the old Atlantic Coast Express (ACE) that ran from London to the seaside resorts of Devon and Cornwall in South West England. 

Saturday 5th October 2024

The Old Stables, Estuary Road, King's Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 2HL – Phone: 01553 661 500

© 2024 | The Railway Touring Company Limited | Founded by Nigel Dobbing in 1997 | All rights reserved. This work remains the property of The Railway Touring Company Limited and may not be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, without permission. Website: LucidSynergy Ltd.

CALL: +44 20 3640 8887

Steam Train Experience

The very best UK Steam Train Trips

A steam train experience like no other, our steam train trips take passengers onboard beautifully restored, authentic 1920's and 1930's luxury trains across the UK. Departing from London and major cities across the midlands and North of England, our steam train experiences take passengers back to Golden Age of travel when steam travel was at its most popular. With authentic and beautifully restored carriages, a steam train trip with us will leave with you memories you'll cherish forever. A highlight of our steam train experiences is the Settle & Carlisle at Leisure onboard the Northern Belle and hauled by the Princess Elizabeth. Taking passengers through the Lakes & Dales, this is a truly special journey with royal connections. Other highlights include the Golden Age of Travel by Steam onboard the British Pullman , sister to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express . All of our steam train experiences include at least one multiple-course meal prepared fresh onboard by talented chefs. All trips are round-trips and last anywhere between five hours and a full-day. Steam trips with excursions include both a brunch on the outward journey and a four-course dinner on the return journey with around three to four hours time at leisure at the destination outlined in the itinerary.

Timings are provisional and subject to network rail confirmation 7 days prior to departure.

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Call us on 020 3640 8887 or email us below

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Price match, book with a deposit, complimentary concierge, human customer services, no hidden costs, journeys worldwide.

• Loco Hauled

D9000 'Royal Scots Grey' is seen at London King's Cross with 1Z46 Day 1 of the 'Edinburgh Christmas Market' from London to Edinburgh. 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' took over from the Deltic at York. D1924 'Crewe Diesel Depot' was on the back throughout the tour. Photo by Ed, 23rd November 2023.

Magical adventures by steam…

Enter a sumptuous world of relaxation and indulgence when you step aboard our flawlessly restored vintage carriages. with outstanding service, exquisite cuisine, and a selection of champagne and fine wines, a journey with us conjures memories of a bygone era..

DISCOVER OUR

Magical journeys.

Expect a dash of adventure and a hint of glamour as you sweep across the rails with us to magical and alluring destinations.

East Anglia to Chatsworth, Crich & Barrow Hill

London to Chester

London to Chatsworth, Crich & Barrow Hill Beer Festival

Windsor to Norwich & Bressingham Steam & Gardens

London to Paignton & Kingswear via Dawlish

The Garden of England Lunchtime Tour

Expect luxury, glamour and a dash of adventure….

As we steam ahead creating trails of wonder, discover a place where time is slower and the sights, sounds and rhythm of steam travel transport you to the extravagance and sophistication of bygone era.

Curated journeys

Marvel at nature’s canvas as we glide past ethereal landscapes, rolling valleys, bonny heaths, glistening lakes, breathtaking wildflower meadows and splendid sunsets. Wander in the footsteps of ancient Britain. Discover grand castles, steeples, and spires, and inspiring stately homes & gardens. Experience a thrilling day at the races or an invigorating seaside jaunt. A journey with us provides the perfect opportunity to slow down and be transported back to the golden days of luxury rail travel.

A day at the races

This an ideal opportunity to relish an authentically vintage day out in style. Experience the opulence of Britain’s Motor Racing’s golden era at Goodwood Revival, a famously immersive tribute to legendary automobiles and period fashion.

A day to cherish

Trace the footsteps of history, marvel at grand historic homes, explore splendidly landscaped gardens and estates, continue your steam-powered escapade, or indulge in a delightful culinary experience.

To dine for

A tantalising collection of fine dining and gourmand pleasures await you. Whether you prefer afternoon tea, luncheons, or a full day of dining, we aim to exceed guests' expectations as we traverse the rails across some of the most breathtaking countryside be found anywhere in the world.

Pure Escapism

Experience a private enclave of exclusivity and decadence. Join fellow ‘bons viveur’ for an unforgettable epicurean adventure of Champagne and culinary delights in our exclusive new Pullman Dining Class; The Helicon Club featuring The Hippocrene Bar.

Spires & steeples

The spires, steeples, castles, and ancient cities of Britain are a journey back in time through a tapestry of captivating stories and architectural marvels. Each corner of Britain reveals layers of history waiting to be uncovered for those with a passion for timeless tales.

I would like to say a massive THANK YOU for a fabulous day out to Bath last Wednesday. The service from your staff was exemplary. They were quick, polite and friendly. The menu was superb – top marks to the chef! The whole trip was extremely well-organised and all the details were clearly explained. Well done to the whole team (including the office staff and footplate crew of course!) We hope to see you again some time and will definitely be recommending you to our friends.

September 1, 2023 - BATH

June 14, 2022

American Life

The 7 Best Steam Train Trips in the U.S.

The grandeur of the American steam locomotive lives on. Here’s where you can catch a ride behind a steam-powered passenger train this summer.

Jordan Green

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Black smoke still billows from steam locomotives in southeastern Pennsylvania, just as it has since 1832. The Strasburg Rail Road, said to be “America’s oldest continuously operated railroad,” turned 190 years old June 9.

The Strasburg Rail Road is one of the nation’s top destinations for passengers wishing to catch a ride behind a steam train. It’s given thousands of eager riders the chance to see how American railroads operated during their glory days.

Best of all, it’s not the only place where you can trundle down the tracks on steam power. Several railroad organizations offer steam engine excursions – and they’re waiting for you to climb aboard this summer.

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Abilene & smoky valley.

When railroads started retiring steam locomotives in the mid-20 th century, some wound up in city parks. But decades later, the one in Abilene, Kansas, got back on track. The Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad operates former Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe No. 3415, a 4-6-2 (those numbers representing the wheel arrangement) Pacific-type locomotive that pulls passenger excursions on select weekends throughout the year.

The locomotive was restored to service after sitting in a municipal park for 40 years. It’s worked for the railroad for several years and is about to undergo significant rebuilding, so 2022 will be the last chance to roll down the rails behind this engine – at least for a while. Repair work on the locomotive will coincide with continued track rehabilitation work, ensuring smooth rides for years to come.

No. 3415 operated over Memorial Day weekend and drew a large crowd, says Ross Boelling, the railroad’s president and general manager. “There’s only very few Pacifics left,” Boelling says. “It’s the only steam locomotive within a 500-mile radius of Abilene that’s operating. … She always seems to draw a lot of attention.”

The engine will operate during Fourth of July weekend, Labor Day weekend, and during Abilene’s annual heritage celebration in late September and early October. Round-trips on the line last roughly two hours. Tickets for adults ages 12 and over are $40; children ages 3 to 11 can ride for $20, and children ages 3 and under ride for free. For more information, visit asvrr.org .

Cumbres & Toltec

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is planning to fire up its summer season of steam train rides July 1, railroad officials say. The 64-mile railroad operates between Antonito, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico, carrying passengers through tunnels, over streams, past wildlife habitats and across a lengthy, vintage trestle bridge. It also climbs to the top of Cumbres Pass. At more than 10,000 feet, it’s the highest point of elevation a steam locomotive has ever reached in North America. The railroad holds the claim to the largest fleet of narrow-gauge steam locomotives in the U.S.

The railroad has introduced new special trains for the summer season, including dinner and brunch trains powered by steam locomotive No. 168. Ticket prices for regular, full steam excursion train trips start at $135 for adults. The railroad offers shorter trips at lower costs, and tickets are selling out quickly. To purchase tickets, visit cumbrestoltec.com .

“If there was ever a year to book early, this is it,” says Scott Gibbs, the railroad’s president. “Our fans are excited to get back to rail adventures and early sales are strong. We’d hate for anyone to be disappointed, so plan ahead.”

Durango & Silverton

Not many registered historical sites move by rail. But the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Durango, Colorado, does. Winding through the San Juan National Forest, this railroad has been voted as one of the world’s best train rides, according to the American Travel Writers Association.

The railroad can track its history back to the narrow-gauge Denver & Rio Grande Western Railway in the early 1880s. The line between Durango and Silverton was nearly abandoned in the 1940s, but it found a new life serving as a movie set. It’s been featured in several productions, including Around the World in 80 Days , and it’s been a registered National Historic Landmark since the 1960s, according to the railroad’s website.

The railroad provides year-round passenger service behind its steam engines, which date back to the early 1920s. Tickets for the Durango to Silverton round-trip start at $101 for adults and $65 for children ages 4 to 11. Tickets can be purchased by visiting durangotrain.com .

Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon Railway offers steam locomotive-powered rides around one of America’s most impressive land formations. The 65-mile trip, billed as a “legendary journey to an extraordinary place,” travels from the depot in Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of the canyon. A round-trip lasts more than four hours.

The railroad offers several different classes of service, including Pullman class, coach class, first-class, and luxury parlor class. In luxury parlor class, passengers can “ride like a baron,” according to the railroad; this class offers a private bar, snacks, and an open platform on the rear of the car where riders can stand and “see the landscape from a different and unique perspective.” Along the way are Ponderosa pine, spruce, and fir trees, as well as mountain lions, elk, and bald eagles. The train ride includes live musical entertainment, according to the railroad’s website, and passengers can read the railway’s newspaper, the Territorial Times.

Upcoming steam engine excursion dates are July 2, Aug. 6, Sept. 3, Sept. 17 for the railway’s anniversary, and Oct. 1. Tickets for children ages 2 to 15 start at $32, and tickets for adults ages 16 and older start at $67. Children under 2 ride for free. For more information, visit thetrain.com .

Mount Washington Cog

As the world’s first mountain-climbing railway, this Mount Washington, New Hampshire, attraction takes visitors high in the sky behind coal-fired steam locomotives. Riding more than 6,000 feet to the top of the mountain, visitors can see much of the American northeast from the comfort of their seats in the train car – on a clear day, of course.

Robert Arey, the railroad’s director of marketing, says, “Mount Washington is the highest peak in the northeast, so you do get up high in elevation. It’s also home to the world’s worst weather. Some days, you might get to experience being in a cloud … or you might get views of five different states, including Canada, and also the Atlantic Ocean if those conditions are right. It gets you a whole new way to experience the summit of a mountain.”

To climb the mountain, the railroad’s two operating steam locomotives use a rack system, which operates like a bicycle chain, Arey says. The locomotive powers a cog gear that hooks into the rack, pulling the engine and passenger car up the mountain as the wheels glide along the rails.

Round-trips last three hours: two hours for travel up and down the mountain, and one hour for visitors to explore the summit. The railway normally offers a morning trip and evening trip, and this year, it’s added a third trip on Saturdays because of high demand, Arey says. Steam train rides sell out quickly, and tickets cost roughly $100 per person. To purchase tickets and look at train schedules, visit thecog.com.

Nevada Northern Railway

If you’ve ever watched Willie Nelson’s 1988 TV film Once Upon a Texas Train , then you’ve seen the Nevada Northern Railway in action. The Nevada Northern calls itself “the best preserved, most authentic, American short-line railroad in existence.” In Ely, Nevada, about 250 miles north of Las Vegas, this railroad offers 90-minute rides behind steam engines built in the early 1900s. Along the line, passengers can see vintage mining structures, a ghost town,tunnels, and mountain scenery. Some trains may even get “robbed” by the museum’s actors. The railroad even has a mascot: Dirt the Cat, who reached social media celebrity status for his dirty, furry appearance while hanging around the repair shop.

Passenger trains have been a mainstay in the railroad’s roughly 110-year history, so it’s no surprise that the museum’s steam locomotives have been featured in countless films and other productions. Hands-on events allow train enthusiasts to try their hand at operating the locomotives and other equipment.

Tickets cost $35 for adults, $29 for seniors 65 and older, and $10 for children ages 4 through 12. Children under 4 ride for free, and all children ride free Monday through Thursday each week. To purchase tickets and learn more, visit nnry.com.

Strasburg Rail Road

Though no formal birthday celebrations have taken place, the railroad’s 190th summer promises to steamy and full of fun, says Hope Graby, the railroad’s marketing representative. Ticket prices for regular accommodations onboard trains start at $10 for children ages 2 to 11 and $18 for adults. More ticketing information is available online at strasburgrailroad.com .

The railroad has continued to add new events, including tours of its mechanical shop and opportunities for visitors to run steam locomotives, Graby says. As for the railroad’s next 190 years, it’s full steam ahead.

“The future for Strasburg is really leveraging opportunities to put steam railroading, the importance of it, the impact it has had on our country, in front of new audiences,” Graby says. “Unlike some tourist railroads, we’re a real, working railroad. You don’t have people who are playing parts or actors. You have real conductors, real firemen, real engineers, real mechanics that are doing this day in, day out with extreme love and passion for what they do.”

Featured image: A steam locomotive pulls a passenger train at the Strasburg Rail Road. (Photo courtesy Chris Pollock, via Strasburg Rail Road)

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I’m not familiar with the locations of some trains. However, the article about Strasburg train never gave a state where this train is located. Is it possible to find out its location?

What a great article, from the top picture of the Strasburg Rail Road train, to the bottom feature on it. I love trains for their historical importance, beauty, unique sound and of course the wonderful sight of the steam itself’ especially when its ‘cloud’ white. They’re also a way to experience a little of the 19th century in the 21st.

I was glad to read about the one in Abilene being restored for real service after being in that municipal park for 40 years. I’m sure if it could talk it would say “Thank you for letting me do what I was built to do, once again!” That’s unusual. Once a train like that would be relegated to a park curiosity attraction, the chances of this happening would be slim to none without a lot of serious push for it. The track rehab is equally important as stated.

All of these trains offer unique fun and adventure no other mode of travel offers. I’d love to go on all of them! You’ve done a wonderful job on this feature Jordan, and I appreciate the links too. Thank you!

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Experience the golden age of travel

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Welcome Aboard Take your seat for a nostalgic journey with Tornado . Steam trains remind us of a time when travel was glamorous and exciting; on board our tours we bring this experience to life as we venture across the country to some superb destinations. Book a tour

Look through our programme of tours to see the great destinations on offer. With many joining stations to choose from, your day out with Tornado may start closer than you think!

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF RAIL TRAVEL STUNNING SCENERY

Sit back and relax as we take the scenic route through rolling hills and along coastal paths to reach our destination.

2024 MAIN LINE TOURS

Join us for ‘The Aberdonian’ and ‘The Clyde Aberdonian’ trains. Offering the ultimate day out in Scotland as these tours wind along the stunning coastal route through the summer.

PREMIER DINING

Enjoy silver service at your table as we present a hearty cooked breakfast and sumptuous four course supper, all freshly cooked by the team of on board chefs.

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Union Pacific Steam Schedule

Keep safety top of mind.

• Stand back at least 25 feet from all railroad tracks.
• Railroad tracks, trestles, yards and right of way are private property -  do not trespass.
• Never assume tracks are abandoned or inactive - ALWAYS expect a train .

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Westward Bound Tour

Union Pacific's famed Big Boy No. 4014 , the world's largest operating steam locomotive, will return to the rails this summer with a scenic tour across mountain ranges and high desert vistas in four western states: Wyoming, Utah, Nevada and California.

Big Boy will journey from its home base in Cheyenne, Wyoming on Sunday, June 30 , en route to Roseville, California , before returning to Wyoming by the end of July. It will make numerous whistle-stops in communities along the way, with public display stops scheduled in:

• July 12-13 : Roseville, California
• July 20-21 : Ogden, Utah

Additional route details and approximate times for whistlestops will be shared closer to the tour.

During the tour, the Union Pacific Museum will host a special passenger trip. The unique experience is the annual gala fundraiser for the nonprofit organization and provides a rare opportunity to travel on this historic heritage equipment. More information on the specifics will appear at www.UPtrainTix.com when they become available.

2024 Westward Bound Tour Route

This is one of two public tours planned for Big Boy in 2024, with a second tour planned later this fall with stops in Texas, Arkansas, Kansas, and Illinois, among other states. Details of the second tour will be released later this spring.

The month-long "Westward Bound" tour will honor Union Pacific's rich railroad legacy and celebrate the railroad's employees and communities it serves. For part of its journey, the Big Boy's consist will include an assortment of rail cars giving spectators a glimpse into what the locomotive looked like pulling freight in its heyday.

"The Big Boy locomotive symbolizes the pivotal role railroads played in shaping our nation's history, and the technological advances we have witnessed within our industry," said Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena. "We are thrilled to share this living piece of history with our employees and the public, and we love seeing the enthusiasm this locomotive generates wherever its whistle blows."

Last fall, we had anticipated including Boise, Idaho, and Portland, Oregon on the Westward Bound tour. As planning continued, we determined that the network capacity on our northern corridor could not accommodate Big Boy No. 4014 along with anticipated demand on a single track. Our goal is to share the Big Boy with as many rail fans as possible across our network, and we look forward to seeing everyone track side – 25 feet back this summer and fall.

Union Pacific Steam Club

To be notified when more details about the steam schedule are available, join the Official Union Pacific Steam Club at http://UP.com/SteamClub !  Steam club members always get notified first when news about Union Pacific's steam program is released!

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Roaring Camp Railroads

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Roaring Camp Railroads - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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These Steam Trains Bring You From the Towering California Redwoods to the Pacific Ocean

Riding from 300-foot-tall redwoods to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk might be the best way to sightsee in California.

Chelsee Lowe is a Los Angeles-based writer with an obsession with good eats and interesting stories. She regularly contributes to Travel + Leisure , TravelAge West , Ventura Blvd , and L.A. Parent , writing about food, family travel, and more.

California's iconic coastal redwoods are majestic: They are the tallest trees on Earth, often growing more than 300 feet high and living as long as 2,000 years. Back in the mid-1800s, the logging industry in the West relied on trains to move the redwoods' tremendous tree trunks from the coastal forests and mountains to flatter, inland regions. Today, coastal redwood forests are preserved, of course, but in some places, trains continue to move on down the track, helping nature buffs (and train buffs) enjoy these scenic areas via locomotive.

VSCC and Walter Scriptunas

In Felton, California, about seven miles outside of the Santa Cruz, Roaring Camp does just that. Trains have run here since 1875, so guests today get a feeling for life back then, with historic engines pulling them through the redwood forest along narrow-gauge grades — and so close to redwood trees you can almost touch them. 

The trains are working pieces of history themselves. One of the few operating steam trains here is Dixiana. Named for the Virginia area it served for years as a mining train, Dixiana is a two-truck steam engine that makes that cartoon-famous (and wildly loud) “toot, toot” when the conductor releases the steam valve. It pulls open-air cars along its route — a slow ride, as it would have been back in the day. The wind may not blow your hair, but you’d be hard-pressed to beat your view.

There are two journeys available at Roaring Camp. Diaxana carries guests for 75 minutes up Bear Mountain and back to the village. For a longer experience, try the three-hour ride connecting Roaring Camp to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . You can start your ride at either of these stops, then enjoy a trip to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, through a gorge and 19th-century tunnel as you go. This route is part of the historic Santa Cruz Big Trees & Pacific Railway, operating since 1875.

Families heading to Roaring Camp can tack additional kid-friendly activities onto their day. There’s gold panning and candle making, for example, plus lots of outdoor space to run or picnic.

Reserving train tickets in advance is suggested. Prices start at $25 for kids (those under age two are free) and $40 for adults. There’s a full calendar of special events, too, including educational weekend rides in March, an Easter Egg Hunt in April, and themed dinner and movie nights throughout the year.

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• FATHER'S DAY BREW TRAIN
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Upcoming Events

Redwood Forest Steam Train

Travel over trestles, through towering redwood groves and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain as conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad and the forest. In the 1880s, narrow-gauge steam locomotives were used to haul giant redwood logs out of the mountains. Roaring Camp’s steam engines date from 1890 and are among the oldest and most authentically preserved narrow-gauge steam engines providing regularly scheduled passenger service in America.

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Santa Cruz Beach Train

Returning march 30th.

Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road Felton, CA 95018

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These Scenic Train Trips Through West Virginia Have Spectacular Mountain Views and Fine Dining on the Rails

West Virginia is a haven for scenic train rides — and one travel writer sampled the steam trains on offer to find the best trips.

I’ve been looking forward to a glass of wine in an elegant train car. I’ve even brought along a bottle of wine in my knapsack, just in case you have to bring your own. Unfortunately, at the last minute, I discover that West Virginia's Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad serves no alcohol on its cocktail-hour excursion. Not even BYOB. 

Departing from Romney , West Virginia’s oldest town, the Potomac Eagle gets its name from its route along the South Branch of the Potomac River and the abundance of eagles there. That’s especially true in the high-walled, thickly forested canyon called the Trough, so named by George Washington on a 1748 surveying expedition. I'm on the Sunset Trough trip , a three-hour ride that, according to my research, offers "eagle sightings in a soft canyon glow."

The train has two engines, one at either end. Pulling us on the first leg of the journey through West Virginia's Trough Canyon is the Potomac Eagle 8250, an ungainly-looking, hard-working diesel road switcher built in 1955 for the Canadian Pacific Railway. Hauling us home on the opposite end is the powerful, photogenic 1755, which was used as a prop in the 2023 Tom Hanks film "A Man Called Otto." On both trains are coaches, dining cars, and even an open-air gondola, or what railroaders simply call a "gon," for those who want a wide view of the Trough and its eagles.

Meal service begins shortly after our 5 p.m. departure. Based on ticket class (and price), the food ranges from snack-bar items to a four-course dinner prepared on the train. The railroad has new owners, who are not only angling for an alcohol license (expected soon), but have invested heavily in the onboard cuisine.

“We do all the food preparation and cooking right here on the train,” says Gretta Ramsey, the line’s food and beverage manager, “which is important if you want to present a high level of meals. We’ve been able to upgrade the menu with more choices, more local food items, and in general, higher-quality ingredients.”

At a brief stop just before entering the Trough, guests can leave their assigned cars and move to the open gon. But with rain threatening, not everyone wants to. Too bad, because no sooner do we enter the Trough than an eagle dive-bombs from high above us to inches over the water’s surface. Another eagle does an Icarus over the canyon until it’s out of sight. Two eaglet siblings, barely fledged, cautiously pump their wings above the river, then return to their nest.

We’re lucky to have Robert “BJ” Lefever on this train. Lefever is an eagle spotter. He knows their nests, predation patterns, and how to find them in treetops, even surrounded by hundreds of identical treetops. Standing in the open gon, he shouts out the location of each bird so loudly that his voice often cracks. In less than five minutes in the Trough, we sight six eagles, with more to come. And Lefever is always the first to spot them. 

“They call me ‘eagle-eye’ around here,” he says with a laugh. 

The next day, I sampled a different scenic train of West Virginia. In the tiny town of Cass, 110 miles from Romney, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is holding its annual Parade of Steam when I arrive. The railroad rolls out all five of its Shay steam locomotives, tooting their whistles, chuffing black coal smoke, and fuming chutes of white steam through its piston valves and exhaust ports. The Parade of Steam is a veritable Miss America pageant of the Iron Horse.

The scene, when I arrive, is heart-stopping in its magnificence. These locomotives, weighing between 40 and 154 tons, are formidable beasts, loud and oily and reeking of burnt coal. Ash and embers fly through the air, leaving the bystanders blinking and rubbing their eyes. Engine grease soils the tracks. The noise is ungodly, ear-splitting. Water drips from the undersides of the locomotive boilers, leaving muddy paths alongside the wheels. 

It is, in other words, spectacular.

Watching it all is visitor Patrick Tabor, a miner in a rock quarry near Roanoke, Virginia, three hours away. 

“I’ve always been a railfan,” he tells me. He’s booked on two rides this weekend. “I grew up where there’s lots of railroad history. I especially like the steam trains.” 

Another visitor, Nathan Watson, was originally from Cass, so he’s familiar with the steam locomotives and their sorrowful whistles resounding among the valleys. 

“My grandpa was a brakeman here,” he says, “and lived across the river. I used to bum rides on the trains when I was a kid. I just love ’em.”

The railroad started in 1901 to carry timber down from the mountains to the Cass mill built by the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Co. The grades are steep, as much as 9 percent, so the company used Shay locomotives, a revolutionary design that relies on geared wheels and which improves the traction. The lumber and mill business ended in 1960, and West Virginia’s state park system bought the rolling stock, engines, and right of way soon after. Tourist excursions began in 1963. 

At the ticket office, a sign above the guichet says, “Special Rides Today.” When I inquire, the woman behind the grillwork says they have hour-long steam-driven rides in old parlor cars along the Greenbrier River, the next one leaving in 15 minutes. I unhesitatingly pay 30 bucks and quickly find passenger car 3607 on the train, make my way to my assigned four-person table, and take seat A, a window perch on the left side of the car.

Our train follows the Greenbrier Branch right of way of the former C&O Railroad, which back in the day would send trains to Cass to pick up milled lumber and bring it to market on the mainline. As it turns out, we are riding on a slightly abbreviated version of Cass Scenic Railroad’s newest itinerary, the Greenbrier Express , using the same cars and steam locomotives.

The Greenbrier River Valley is teeming with wildlife. Passengers may spy mergansers and mallards, deer, and even black bears. On this day, we see all those things and more, except for the bears. The shallow river, 30 feet broad, takes up most of the valley floor, leaving the train clinging to a steep hillside. The steam whistle echoes lugubriously among the slopes. Photogenic cascades froth down the sides of the hills, passing below our tracks and flowing into the river.

The rolling stock behind our locomotive includes a coal car, U.S. Mail Rail Post Office 706, West Virginia Central diner 202, Western Maryland Railroad passenger cars 3607 and 835, and Chesapeake & Ohio caboose 90658. Despite the mismatched cars, it is one hell of a handsome train.

The next day, I find myself again in Cass. I’ll stay overnight in one of the former Cass Company houses , built for the mill and railroad workers in the early 1900s and now available for rent. But at the moment, the big event is one the most scenic rail journeys in the country: the ride to Bald Knob, the third-highest peak in West Virginia. 

Onward and Upward to Bald Knob

As we board at the Cass station, each passenger receives a plastic bag containing a “hobo lunch” (hamburger bun, cold cuts and cheese, macaroni salad, cookies, apple sauce, and bottled water). Some of the passengers dig into the chow right away, while others hang onto it, waiting until we reach Bald Knob, two hours up the mountain.

Our engine, Shay No. 11, was built by the Lima Locomotive Works of Ohio in 1923. The Shays were designed for power and grip, not for speed. They can reach 11 mph if called upon, but average only about 6 mph on most trips. 

The rolling stock on the Bald Knob excursion consists mainly of gondolas once used to carry cut trees to the mill. The state park put roofs over the cars and double-sided wooden bench seats lengthwise down the centers. Some far-thinking passengers have brought light jackets, in case the weather turns cold on the mountaintop, and which they use as seat cushions for the five-hour round-trip ride.

Our climb begins at an elevation of 2,452 feet; the summit, 11 miles away, is at 4,842 feet. Not every steam locomotive can make such a climb, especially considering the curves we have to contend with. 

We come to a switch, where we reverse direction onto a new set of tracks. Our locomotive, which had been pushing us, is now pulling us. Coal smoke unexpectedly flows back into the open passenger cars. The train crew advises us to squint and look away if a cloud of smoke comes at us. Eyewash is available for anyone who needs it. Many do.

We pass three grand vistas where the tracks are higher than the treetops on the downslope side. Range after range of mountains come into view, fading from forest green to powder blue on the far horizon. The timberlands here are rich and varied: maple, oak, beech, birch, mountain ash, and the placer gold of timber, red spruce, prized by the lumber mills for its grain, strength, and beauty. 

Finally, we pull into Bald Knob, two hours from Cass. Picnic tables are scattered about a vast meadow. From down in the valley, I can hear the high, lonesome whistle of another Shay, a sound at once joyous and mournful.

I take a seat by myself at one of the picnic tables and look into my day pack to see if any of my hobo lunch remains. Imagine my surprise when I open the pack and find the bottle of wine I’d bought days earlier and failed to use as a BYOB on the Potomac Eagle. I also discover a Par Mar gas station 16-ounce paper coffee cup (“Buy this size and save up to 1¢ per gallon”), which I’d picked up that morning. What are the odds? 

No alcohol is allowed here or anywhere else in the state park. Yet high atop the knob, surrounded by dramatic and distant views of the wild mountains of West Virginia, I can’t resist. I open the wine, fill the coffee cup halfway, and raise a surreptitious toast to railroads everywhere, the older the better.

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News & Reviews News Wire Grand Canyon No. 4960 concludes April operations with Earth Day excursion

Grand Canyon No. 4960 concludes April operations with Earth Day excursion

Next steam trip in May to feature guest whistle

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WILLIAMS, Ariz. — While the busy steam season for most locomotives is beginning to build up around this time, 2-8-2 No. 4960 is already in full form n the Grand Canyon Railway. The Mikado-type recently completed three April round trips from Williams to Grand Canyon National Park.

While the locomotive performed well during the public excursion on April 6 [See, “ Grand Canyon No. 4960 operates first… ” News Wire, April 11, 2024], the private charter on April 15 met a new challenge, according to railway chief mechanical officer Eric Hadder. Heading the four-car train unassisted, the tender’s coil heater wasn’t working, leading to the use of the direct bubbler to heat the waste vegetable oil, he said. “This resulted in adding a significant amount of water to the fuel tank, which caused problems later in the day with keeping the fire lit.”

Prior to the Earth Day public excursion later that week, the coil heater was repaired, Hadder said, in addition to the fuel tank being drained and refilled. The trip on April 20 showed better performance with no mechanical issues from No. 4960 as it pulled a 15-car train and F40 No. 4128 as a diesel assist.

Over the years, the 2-8-2 received multiple modifications to make it both economically efficient and environmentally friendly. A prior post on GCRY’s Facebook page indicates enough snow melt during the winter was harvested to cover the entire steam season. The post also states that 12,000 gallons of water and 1,200 gallons of waste vegetable oil are used per trip, hence the railway’s tradition of a steam-powered excursion scheduled during the Earth Day celebration. New this year was parking No. 4960  in front of the Grand Canyon Depot with stairs leading up to the cab for visitors to look inside during the layover.

Another short turnaround will lead up to the next steam excursion on May 4. While no reports of any changes in maintenance and preparations, Hadder confirmed a new wrinkle to the upcoming trip. No. 4960 is planned to carry the whistle of Texas & New Orleans No. 982. This Houston-based 2-10-2 is under the care of the Texas Railway Preservation Association, which is currently fundraising for the locomotive’s future relocation and return to operation. Yhe non-profit organization and GCRY have partnered in a ticket raffle for a chance to ride the May 4 excursion. A March 12 post on the TRPA Facebook page says “all proceeds of ticket raffle admission go towards the upcoming — quiet and fast —  relocation of 982 to its restoration site, tooling, and new insurances!”

For more information, visit the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel website . The “Steam Saturdays” schedule is available here .

2 thoughts on “ Grand Canyon No. 4960 concludes April operations with Earth Day excursion ”

Environmentalist probably up in arms about all the pollution that the 4960 produced. especially on Earth Day. Wouldn’t be surprised that in a few years they will be forced to go all green with Solar locomotives.

I had the pleasure of riding the Earth Day excursion. 4960 performed well, and the crew freely answered my questions about the waste vegetable oil conversion. There was quite a line to look up in the cab at the Grand Canyon depot, too. I would highly recommend taking a ride behind this engine!

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Home Explore France Official Tourism Board Website

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The most unusual train trips in France

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Nature and Outdoor Activities

Reading time: 0 min Published on 19 March 2024, updated on 25 April 2024

A far cry from the TGV high-speed train, these slow trains allow you the time to admire the scenery of France from a different angle. Forget timetables and go off the beaten (railway) track, to let your mind escape and unleash your imagination. These quirky little gems of France beckon you for an alternative adventure of the meditative kind.

Heading into the salt marshes of Hauts-de-France

Embark on the Somme Bay Railway for a 27-kilometre trip. This genuine steam locomotive and its old-fashioned carriages will take you around the Bay of Somme and into another era. Between marshland, salt marshes and the seaside resort, this train ride is a great way to enjoy a breath of fresh sea air. You can even opt for a gourmet dinner served on board!

The Loire Valley and the Châteaux of France

The Loire Valley is famous for its abundance of châteaux, but this unique region also boasts a beautiful wilderness. The Loir Valley Tourist Train (TTVL) is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. It has retained all its fifties charm and is an absolute must. Between the wine-growing village of Thoré-la-Rochette and the troglodyte village of Trôo, the 3-hour trip takes you through the Saint Rimay tunnel and past the old wine cellars, Caves de La Rochette. With a bit of luck, you’ll see the TGV Atlantique high-speed train at the exact spot where it broke the world railway speed record in 1990 (513.3 kph).

In the heart of nature in Brittany

Swept by the coastal winds, the Trieux Steam Train offers the unique charm of a ride into yesteryear, aboard an ancient locomotive with seventy-year-old carriages that are fitted with wooden seats. The train travels slowly along the Trieux estuary for about twenty kilometres, between Paimpol and Pontrieux. The varied landscape ranges from ocean to forest, inviting you on an adventure in an unspoilt and authentic region.

Further inland, the Napoleon Express explores across the countryside of Brittany and into the heart of the Blavet Valley, between Pontivy and Lambel-Camors. This train from the period between 1960 and 1980 takes you on a 35-km journey across Morbihan and into the Camors forest. There are a number of stops along the way, so you can pick your destination and plan your day out accordingly.

Heading for the D-Day beaches in Normandy

The 19th-century train of the Eure Valley Railway offers an alternative way to explore between the chalky cliffs and historic beaches of Normandy. From Pacy-sur-Eure station, soak up the enchanting olden-day atmosphere on this trip into railway history on a section of the old line that ran between Rouen and Orleans.

Volcanoes and peaks of the Alps, Auvergne and the Jura Mountains

Auvergne is well known for its mountainous terrain and bucolic scenery. But this region is also dotted with dormant volcanoes. Aboard the Panoramic of the Domes electric train , you’ll climb quickly to the top of the Puy-de-Dôme, the only one of the region’s 80 volcanoes to feature in theUnesco World Heritage register. At an elevation of 1,465 metres, the summit offers a 360° panoramic view over this world-unique geological ensemble.

For fans of mountain landscapes, the Mont-Blanc Tramway is an absolute must. Embark at Le Fayet or Saint Gervais for a ride on the highest rack railway in France. Skiers and walkers can admire the breathtaking Alpine scenery and, once at the top, take to the ski slopes or hiking trails for an experience beyond time.

More than 1,000 metres above sea level, the Coni’fer is the highest railway line in the Jura Massif. At the tranquil pace of bygone days, it will take you across the pastures and forests of Haut-Doubs. The railway, which doubles up as an art exhibition venue, has just celebrated its 30th anniversary. A great opportunity to discover the unusual story behind this train from yesteryear.

© Benjamin Becker Jura Tourisme - The Hirondelles Railway

The Hirondelles Railway offers one of the most beautiful train rides in France. It crosses Jura, from Dole to Saint-Claude. Open both summer and winter, the 120-kilometre itinerary between mountains and plains features a succession of viaducts. Passengers can enjoy some stunning views of this mountainous area.

Exceptional panoramic views in the Basque country

To see the Basque Country from above, catch the Train of La Rhune to climb slowly to the top of this legendary mountain. You’ll travel across the mountainside, between forests and ravines, to admire a 360° panoramic view from the top, over the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Spanish Pyrenees on the other.

The Pyrenees are home to Europe’s highest narrow-gauge railway, the Little Train of Artouste . Reaching an elevation of 2,000 metres, the itinerary begins with a 15-minute ride in a gondola lift to reach the departure station in Pyrénées Atlantiques. The 55-minute trip that follows reveals views of the Ossau Valley like you’ve never seen it before.

Varying landscapes of the Pyrenees

The ‘ Train Jaune ’, in Pyrénées-Orientales is a historical and very special train that takes you into the Catalan mountains. Explore the regional nature park on one of Europe’s highest railways, from the thermal baths of Llo to the ski resort of Font Romeu, via the Spanish town of Puigcerdà.

• Again in Pyrénées-Orientales, another train stands out from the crowd by its colour: The Red Train . The 60-kilometre itinerary offers the ultimate change of scene, with commentary along the way through the Agly Valley and the Upper Aude Valley. If you’re feeling energetic, take the railbike, a light railway vehicle propelled by your own pedal power. This cross between train travel and cycling offers an alternative transport experience that’s both original and eco-friendly.

Outstanding views in the Dordogne Valley

The Dordogne Valley is packed with charismatic villages and sites that have some amazing stories to tell, such as Rocamadour, Collonges, Sarlat, Lascaux and the Padirac Chasm. This atypical valley is truly a jewel offered to nature lovers, with caves, chasms and other must-see sites. The best way to explore it is, without a doubt, on the Steam Train of Martel . A steam train or a powerful diesel locomotive will take you along a corniche with an 80-metre drop. This fabulous trip through the lush green valley will have you daydreaming as you gaze at the panoramic views that unfurl before your eyes.

Deep into the Lorraine forest

In Moselle you can catch the Forest Train of Abreschviller , for a unique ride on a steam train, deep in the forest. On this 12-kilometre trip you’ll visit the Sarre Rouge Valley to admire its natural riches. Various activities are available to keep the children entertained, as well as their parents.

The viaducts and turquoise waters of Provence

To admire the Provence scenery of lavender fields, vineyards, olive groves and pine forests, take a ride on the Train des Pignes whose beauty transports you before you’ve even boarded! This vintage steam locomotive pulls carriages that are more than a hundred years old. The trip is slow-paced and beautiful too, lasting nearly 3½ hours between Digne-les-Bains and Nice, via some lovely authentic villages.

The Blue Coast Train , between Marseille and Miramas, is owned by the SNCF (French national railway company). Between the azure-blue of the coves and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, the itinerary unfurls in an alternation of viaducts, stations, amazing panoramic views and other wonderful surprises.

The French Riviera in the South of France is the stuff of dreams, with a mild climate and turquoise-blue coves that make it a dream destination. Fancy an experience that’ll take your breath away? The Train of Wonders takes you on a guided tour into the heart of the region inland from Nice and Menton. Deemed to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, this itinerary takes you to see the Roya Valley which extends between the Mediterranean coast and the Mercantour National Park. This trip has plenty of surprises in store. Starting at sea level, the train reaches an elevation of 1,000 metres after travelling just a hundred kilometres or so. The Train of Wonders continues to operate in winter, when passengers can admire the snow-covered landscape.

Breathtaking views in Corsica

Nicknamed ‘U trinighellu’ by the locals, the Balagne railway in Corsica is a train like no other. Firstly, it offers a shuttle service serving the local beaches. So stop for a dip in the warm turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, then hop back on to visit L’Île Rousse and Calvi! This train is an ode to life in the slow lane, with some outstanding views of this incredible island.

Further reading : Nos itinéraires coups de cœur pour parcourir la France à vélo Se déplacer en France en mobilités douces

By Hugo Garcia

Hugo is a qualified sociologist who writes for a variety of different media. He is a true all-rounder whose experience in the field gives substance to his articles.

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