Scenic Train Rides By State (2024): A Complete Guide

Scenic train rides are one of the great pastimes and can be found scattered throughout the country, from Florida to California. Presented here is information on how to find a tourist railroad near you.

While Amtrak still offers the chance to travel from city-to-city and commuter services fulfill an essential need within large metropolitan areas, neither provides the nostalgia of railroading's "Golden Age."

History

What To Expect

State Guide

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin

Individual Excursions

Defunct Lines

Christmas

Premier Experiences

More than a half-century ago one could board a flagship service like Pennsylvania Railroad's legendary Broadway Limited at New York's illustrious Pennsylvania Station and enjoy a lap of luxury during a 16-hour journey to Chicago.

The mighty PRR spared no expense in stocking its top service with every amenity imaginable, from freshly prepared five-star meals to full bedrooms.

The train's other noteworthy perks included air-conditioning and a fully-staffed crew provided by the iconic Pullman Company. But the PRR was not alone, many other railroads, such as the New York Central, Santa Fe, and Union Pacific, offered their own level of opulence.

History

Tailoring to a traveler's every needs some of these trains provided a secretary, nurse, domes for maximum viewing, and even a barber.

Such indulgences cannot be found on Amtrak. However, a few, like dome cars and full-course meals, have made their way to the scenic train ride industry. Within this section you can learn more about a few of these organizations and where they are located.

The scenic train ride concept is not new although it has certainly gained popularity over the last few decades. The oldest organization dedicated to preserving rail history is the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society, Inc. founded in 1921.

The R&LHS remains an active group and you can visit their website by clicking here. Before modern scenic railroads were born enthusiasts sponsored these trips directly on the railroads.

Many companies were happy to host such events before rising insurance premiums and the fear of ligation largely ended the practice.

The trips were not limited to big-name roads like the Southern Pacific, Santa Fe, Burlington, New Haven, Nickel Plate Road, or Baltimore & Ohio. Several small carriers also operated such excursions, names like the Western Maryland, Virginian, and Reading.

It all began in 1934 when the first "fan trip" was hosted by the Massachusetts Bay Railroad Enthusiasts, Inc. along the Hoosac Tunnel & Wilmington Railroad (this system was abandoned long ago but the MBRE still exists).

In his article from the September, 1969 issue of Trains Magazine entitled "Are These People Embalmers Or Enthusiasts?," noted editor David P. Morgan described the term "railfan" quite poignantly.

It carries a range of subcategories, from photography to model trains, but general refers those who simply enjoy the subject of railroads.

Various clubs/organizations sprang up throughout the 1930s, '40s, and '50s. These groups rose in number as many railroads disappeared after the 1970's.

There were 65 such groups in 1934 and 96 by 1959 as noted by the "The Railfan, Inc." (edited by Rosemary Entringer) featured in the June, 1959 issue of Trains Magazine. The next important organization was the National Railway Historical Society (NRHS), formed in 1935.

The NRHS acted as a franchising operation with various chapters formed across the country, many of which are still around today.

But again, the modern movement of museums and scenic train rides sprang up in postwar times as nostalgia took hold when diesels replaced steam and railroads disappeared through merger.

The popular "fan trips" peaked after World War II when, as Mr. Morgan points out, some clubs tried to sponsor as many as five excursions at a time, all with different railroads.

One of the last great adventures at this time were the popular "Iron Horse Rambles" hosted by coal-hauler Reading between October 25, 1959 and October 17, 1964.

The trips were pulled by one of their powerful 4-8-4's, listed Class T-1. Three of these steamers participated in the events (#2100, #2102 and #2124) during a total of fifty "Rambles" operated over a five-year period.

In another article from Mr. Morgan entitled, "Reading's Rambles: How And Why Would A Railroad Partially De-dieselize?" presented in the April, 1961 issue of Trains Magazine, he detailed the program during its height.

In an era when such things truly mattered, then-president Joseph A. Fisher wanted to boost the company's public image.

He felt steam-powered excursions offered the best chance of success, an assessment which proved correct! There were problems with the logistics, however.

The Reading had retired its last steam locomotive in early 1957 and two years later contained only two extant coaling towers (one at Reading and the other in Rutherford, Pennsylvania).

The railroad did have a few of its large and powerful 4-8-4's still on the property although the T-1's were too large to fit within Reading Terminal (Philadelphia).

Nevertheless, Fisher pushed forward with the "Iron Horse Rambles" concept. The first returned to service was #2124. As Mr. Morgan notes, Reading had to look outside the train enthusiast hobby to fill a 975-seat train, hoping that it could at least break-even on the trips.

To do this the excursions were heavily marketed on radio and television, as well as promoted at Trains Magazine. In addition, the railroad offered themed rides to further increase ridership.

Some of these included holiday specials (during warmer months), a fall foliage run, traveling to the historic Gettysburg battlefields, and even a "Touch Of Old Dutch Day" trip to Schwenksville, Pennsylvania (abandoned today). While not every run was a success, particularly during the holidays, trains were typically filled with over 900 passengers.

The all-time record was a Philadelphia-West Milton "Ramble" held on October 15, 1960. On that day the consist was double-headed by #2124 and #2100 and the pair pulled 22 cars containing 1,321 patrons!

The 1960's signaled the last great period of fan trips as railroads focused attention in other areas, particularly discontinuing passenger services, the merger movement, and simply survival.

Over the next few decades a handful of memorable excursions were run, ranging from the American Freedom Train and Chessie Steam Special to Southern Railway's steam program, maintained into the Norfolk Southern era until 1994 (renewed again between 2011-2015 albeit without NS-owned locomotives).

What To Expect

Before embarking on your trip you might want to learn more about the scenic railroads in which you are interested. If you are simply interested in a train ride, you are sure to enjoy any of them! However, if you are looking for a little more there many options to choose from.

Are you interested primarily in a trip with spectacular scenery or one in which a fine meal is served?

For instance, California's Napa Valley Wine Train offers some of the best on-board dining anywhere in the country while West Virginia's tiny Durbin & Greenbrier Valley "Rocket" operates predominately with open-air cars to allow for maximum viewing.

You can also catch murder mystery specials at other locations while themed rides during the holidays are also a big hit, particularly during the Christmas season.

Finally, there is a reason why names like the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge, Strasburg, and White Pass & Yukon Route draw the biggest crowds as their rides are first-class operations providing incredible views with numerous amenities available.

The truth is that while enthusiasts are sometimes looked down upon by society, without them there would be no Strasburg Railroad (one of America's most popular excursions located in Pennsylvania's Amish community), Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge in Colorado, or the White Pass & Yukon Route in Alaska.

These folks, many working as volunteers, do it all for love of the hobby. The Strasburg was originally built as a short-line freight carrier but shutdown in 1957.

In 1959 a group of railfans purchased the defunct short line and began operating excursions. Today, the railroad is a mostly all-steam with authenticity a key to its success.

In recent years it began hauling freight once more and also performs car and locomotive repairs. Scenic train rides operated today carry many similarities to those hosted decades ago.

Tourist companies have been successful at exploiting niches, like dinner train themes, trips for Christmas ("The Polar Express" rides have proven especially popular since Warner Brothers' 2004 acclaimed movie, based from Chris Van Allsburg's 1985 children's book), and the always-popular fall foliage excursions. There are some areas, however, heritage railroads simply cannot simulate.

Because most organizations are only a few miles in length trips last only an hour or less.

As a result, ridership is hampered. As an entertainment venue, folks want to be pampered and indulged. If a train ride is very short with few amenities it feels cheap and not worth the price.

The most successful railroads host trips lasting anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, sometimes longer! In the case of Reading's "Iron Horse Rambles" these operated anywhere from 100 to 175 miles with trains clipping along at track-speed (usually above 25-35 mph).

There was a full crew of 23, which included a boiler-maker, master mechanic, and road foreman to ensure trips went off without hitch and the locomotives were functioning properly. So many qualified personnel on a train is nearly unheard of today, simply due to cost.

Technologies, particularly the Internet and social media, have greatly enhanced marketing in the modern age but Reading's fully-staffed public relations department worked wonders at spreading the word.

They even went to incredible lengths into identifying the best photographic locations for railfans No Class I railroad would ever bother doing such things today!

State Guide

Arizona

One of the most popular train rides in the country is the Grand Canyon Railway, offering upscale trips through the beautiful Arizona desert. You depart from Williams and 64 miles later arrive at the world-renowned Grand Canyon National Park over trackage (originally owned by the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe).

At the South Rim you can stay at the historic El Tovar Hotel (among other accommodations) or simply enjoy the incredible views. During the trip there are many level of services provided, from standard coach to dome-cars.

There are also several vacation packages to choose from. The popularity of the Grand Canyon has certainly increased since its inception in 1988, and today, the railroad's diesel and steam locomotives pull a well-maintained fleet of restored passenger equipment for unparalleled enjoyment and spectacular views.

The Old Pueblo Trolley opened on April 17, 1993 to preserve Tucson's transit history. The city's first electrified streetcars entered service on June 1, 1906 to replace what had been horse and mule-powered operations (typical in many towns and cities of that time period).

Unfortunately, the classic trolley proved very susceptible to other modes of competition, including standard steam railroads. Early automobiles, notably Ford's Model T, put many out of business by the 1920's while the Great Depression finished off the industry.

The Tucson operation was no different and the last cars ran on December 31, 1930. The idea for the Old Pueblo Trolley first began in 1988 and its equipment is currently housed at the 36th Street Shops.

The group's 1-mile of track begins at University Boulevard, heads south beneath Union Pacific's main line, and then loops around Congress Street/Broadway Boulevard. The organization also operates buses and manages the nearby Southern Arizona Transportation Museum.

The Paradise & Pacific Railroad, located in Scottsdale, is part of the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. The train is based from a Colorado narrow gauge and is exactly 5/12th's the original, carrying passengers on a 1-mile trip around the park.

They also feature a small museum which includes an impressive of collection of preserved wooden depots: one of Santa Fe vintage constructed in 1907 and that once sat at Aguila, North Scottsdale Avenue; a Southern Pacific structure built during the 1930's at Maricopa, North Scottsdale Avenue; and finally another Santa Fe station originally located at Peoria, North Scottsdale Avenue, completed in 1895.

A fourth depot replicates an Arizona & New Mexico Railroad building that once stood in Clifton, Arizona. While there don't forget to see 2-6-0 #6, built for the El Paso & Southwestern by the Burnham, Williams Company (Baldwin) in 1907 and Pullman car "Roald Amundsen," which saw use by every U.S. president from Herbert Hoover through Dwight Eisenhower.

Large-scale, outdoor railroads have become an increasingly popular alternative to the more expensive, standard excursion rides. Some groups do not even charge admission! This organization, based in Glendale (Phoenix), offers just such an attraction.

What is known as the Adobe Western Railroad hosts 30-40 minute trips on the property which includes a rather substantial network of track. Their public rides are offered every Sunday between 12 and 4:30 p.m. from mid-September through mid-May (again, due to summer's extreme heat they are closed outside of these dates).

In addition to their collection of steam locomotives the group also has a fleet of diesels to pull their trains. While rides are free the organization does eagerly welcome donations. To learn more and plan a visit their website for more information.

The Superstition Scenic Narrow Gauge Railroad is an often forgotten attraction, located in the rebuilt gold mining town of Goldfield, situated about 40 miles east of downtown Phoenix.

This historical interpretive center, which opened in 1989 and known as the "Goldfield Ghost Town," tells the story of a small mining community that once produced more than $1.5 million in gold from small, local shafts during the 1890's.

The Superstition Scenic operates roughly 1.5 miles of track as a 3-foot, narrow-gauge around the grounds with cars pulled by a diesel switcher manufactured by the Plymouth Locomotive Works (but dressed to appear as a steam locomotive). Trips last about 20 minutes.

The scenic train rides available in Arizona today are thanks in large part to the Santa Fe Railroad. The Verde Canyon Railroad is no exception as it uses former AT&SF trackage in central Arizona, near the very popular tourist destination of Sedona.

The Verde Canyon has become a popular tourist attraction since it began operations in the early 1990s. Today, the railroad offers several different excursions and special trips.

Although prices average a little higher than what you might find on other tourist railroads the scenery afforded within climate-controlled coaches is well worth the cost!

If you are visiting Sedona, or Arizona in general a visit to the Verde Canyon Railroad, is very much recommended. This is especially true since you can often witness Bald Eagles on the journey and it is the only way to see Arizona's breathtaking Verde Canyon.

California

This little operation is based in Los Gatos and provides 1/3rd-scale California scenic train rides. Its history is not that of your typical scale railroad; it all began with William "Billy" Jones, a longtime Southern Pacific.

In 1939 he located and acquired an 18-inch gauge steam locomotive designed for the Venice Miniature Railway in Venice Beach, California.

Jones then used the little steamer to establish a miniature railroad of his own to host rides for the public.

After he passed away in 1968 a local group formed a non-profit organization called the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad, Inc. to continue operating his collection at the Oak Meadow Park and Vasona Park in Los Gatos.

It reopened in July, 1970. Today, the railroad maintains an engine house, depot, and even a water tank while offering trips over 1 mile of track.

They operate nearly year-round but have various hours depending on the seasons. The attraction has become so popular it now hosts more than 100,000 visitors annually!

Another small railroad, this tourist attraction is based in Yermo and operates a 2-foot, 6-inch narrow gauge line through the ghost town of Calico, California (in its heyday this community produced over $20 million in silver ore from 500 local mines during a 12-year period).

The Calicao & Odessa is based from the actual Waterloo Mining Railroad, a local narrow-gauge system which hauled this silver ore from Calico to the mills of Daggett during the 1880's. (It does not, however, utilize the original right-of-way.)

This museum, located in San Jose, was established in 1982 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Its primary mission aims at preserving the memory and history of rail transportation in the Santa Clara Valley.

The group has two noteworthy steam locomotives under their care, Southern Pacific 4-6-2 #2479 (Class P-10) manufactured by Baldwin in 1923 and Southern Pacific 0-6-0 #1215 (Class S-10) also built by Baldwin (1913).

They are currently working towards the complete restoration and operation of the former while the latter will remain a static display piece.

In addition, they operate a number of trolleys on a short stretch of track. Finally, their long term goals involve opening the San Jose Steam Railroad Museum which will maintain Southern Pacific's historic, six-stall Lenzen Roundhouse and turntable.

The famed Skunk Train, one of California's most popular scenic train rides, operates from Fort Bragg to Willits (where a connection was once made with the now-defunct Northwestern Pacific Railroad).

The heritage of this trackage, which totals 40 miles, can be traced back to the Fort Bragg Railroad that began operations in 1885 for the purpose of moving redwood logs from the rich forests of Glenblair to a mill at Fort Bragg.

After various name changes it became the California Western Railroad on December 19, 1947. Following many years moving timber products the CWR discontinued freight operations in 2001.

The carrier had operated passenger trains for many years and essentially transitioned into a tourist attraction, particularly after freight service ceased. The railroad operates both steam and diesel locomotives year-round while also hosting a number of special events.

The Folsom Valley Railway is part of the Folsom City Zoo in Folsom, California.

The train ride has been in operation since 1970 and utilizes an authentically-scaled steam engine and cars (12-inch gauge) running on about 4/5-mile of track.

In June, 1978 the operation was taken over by Mylon Thorley from the original owners, the Sherman brothers. A little over a decade later there was another ownership change when, on January 1, 1991, Terry Gold acquired the little attraction and he remains the caretaker today.

There are currently two locomotives on the grounds; a 4-4-0 named "Cricket" (built by Erich Thompson of Berkeley Hills, California in 1950) and 4-4-2 #3001 (a project launched by Alan Shelly in 1938, it was later finished more than a decade later in 1949).

If the weather permits the railroad operates during select days of the week every month of the year.

The Irvine Park Railroad is situated in Orange, California and offers scale-California train rides (1/3-scale) throughout much of the year (except major holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day) within the Irvine Regional Park.

This recreational venue is also home to numerous other outdoor activities such as the Orange County Zoo, paddle-boat and bike rentals, pony rides, and numerous hiking trails.

The railroad began in 1996 and has transformed into one of their most popular attractions, running a sort of semi-circle loop over a portion of the property.

Also, be sure to visit the park for special events, such as their Easter Extravaganza, events for Halloween, and a special "Christmas Train!"

Finally, visit their website to learn more about hosting parties on the grounds (which includes pavilion/moon bounce rentals and even enjoy an outdoor get-together at the "Locomotive Loop").

Don't let the name fool you! Scenic train rides can be found at this tourist attraction.

Knott's Berry Farm provides a laundry list of family activities and is essentially a theme park. Some of these include a roller-coaster, water slides, and virtual reality game.

They even have the Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant (opened in 1934) and a hotel accommodations. Finally, one of their very popular attractions is the Calico Railroad, which operates tours around the park.

This is not a scale-train ride. The equipment is actual, full-size locomotives and cars operating on three-foot ("narrow-gauge") track.

There are also a pair of 24-inch gauge locomotives on the premises including 0-4-0T #3 (built by the Vulcan Iron Works in 1908) and 4-4-0 #83 (this locomotive is operational and was built by Crown Metal Products in 1982).

One of the most luxurious of scenic train rides can be found through LA Rail, designed to whisk passengers back in time and experience what rail travel was like during the industry's "Silver Age" of streamliners.

The cars operate largely between Santa Barbara, Los Angeles and San Diego running as part of Amtrak consists. They also offer long-distance trips from time to time.

Their current fleet includes Pacific Sands (10-roomette, 6-bedroom Pullman sleeper), Silver Splendor (Vista-Dome lounge-diner), Pacific Trail (44-seat coach), Overland Trail (39-seat club/lounge), and Tioga Pass (open-observation business car).

One of the most popular scenic train rides, and well known throughout the country, is the Napa Valley Wine Train.

They offer one of the best dinner train experiences you can enjoy anywhere featuring a wide range of options (including wine, of course) aboard their train which operates through the beautiful Napa Valley region.

The train itself is operated by the Napa Valley Railroad, a reborn entity tracing back to 1864. It originally connected Calistoga and Crockett (48 miles).

The purpose of the original, just like today, was to bring tourists to Napa Valley (in this case to Calistoga, a resort city).

If you find yourself vacationing or traveling through this region's famous vineyards you may want to consider stopping for a visit to this very posh train, which spares no expense in the meal and journey!

The Napa Valley Wine Train was initially started in 1987 by local preservationists and railroad enthusiasts among stiff opposition from local communities.

After a lengthy court battle the railroad won out and was granted the right to operate the then ex-Southern Pacific trackage between Napa and St. Helena.

The Niles Canyon Railway features a number of different scenic train rides on its 1 hour, 15 minute round trips, pulled by both steam and diesel locomotives.

It is one of many tourist lines in the state providing excursions on a former Southern Pacific (SP) route. This particular corridor extends a little under 10 miles with a history that can be traced back to the Civil War era.

The SP discontinued service in the mid-1980s and subsequently abandoned the line. However, thanks to the hard work of many volunteers a section was rebuilt a few years later and today provides a popular tourist attraction for thousands.

The railroad has since grown to the point it now hosts several specials throughout the year.

This museum is operated by the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Association (PSRMA) with two locations, Campo and La Mesa.

Throughout much of the year they offer excursions via a 16-mile round trip over trackage originally built by the San Diego & Arizona Railway (SD&A).

It was later sold to the Southern Pacific in 1932 whereupon the property became known as the San Diego & Arizona Eastern Railway.

There are two preserved depots maintained by the PSRMA, a former SD&A wooden structure in Campo and San Diego & Cuyamaca Railway trolley building, built in 1894, which served La Mesa.

The museum maintains a fairly sizable collection of steam and diesel locomotives along with an assortment of other equipment.

Their notable pieces include Coos Bay Lumber 2-8-2T #11 (built by Alco in 1929) that is under restoration and an eclectic collection of diesels.

Located in Poway, the Poway-Midland Railroad operates on a 0.5-mile segment of track in the city's park using a 0-4-0 steam locomotive (originally built by Baldwin Locomotive Works in April, 1907 for Cowell Cement) and a trolley car.

The arrangement carries an usual 3-foot, 6-inch narrow-gauge alignment. This little organization, owned by the city, and headed by the Poway–Midland Railroad Volunteers, Inc., has been open since 1991.

According to the railroad, its history can be traced back to a Colonel John Porter who built a small attraction on his property near Aubrey, known as the "Rattlesnake Creek Railroad."

He passed away in 1980 before the idea could be fully put into operation. However, the city subsequently purchased his railroad in 1986, which led to the volunteer group's formation and eventual operation of the property.

Some of their other better known pieces include an 1894 Los Angeles trolley car, Fairmont Speeder built in 1956, and a cable car manufactured in 1906 that originally operated in San Francisco.

Railtown 1897 is located in Jamestown offering excursions pulled by steam locomotives and restored vintage railroad equipment.

They house their collection within the town's historic shops and roundhouse. Excursions are offered throughout much of the year with special events also hosted.

These trips are presented under the name of the Sierra Railway, with ties to this trackage. It dates back to 1897, originally projected to connect the California Central Valley with the Gold Country foothills.

At its largest length the railroad ran 57.43 miles from Tuolumne (serving the West Side Lumber Company's mill there) to Oakdale where interchange was established with the Southern Pacific and Santa Fe.

The name "Rail Town 1897" first appeared in 1971 when the railroad began marking excursions and slowly grew from that time forward.

In 1982 California's Department of Parks and Recreation purchased the property, renaming it as Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Today, they offer a wide range of trips and special events throughout the year.

Located inside Tilden Regional Park at Berkeley the Redwood Valley Railway offers miniature train rides on weekends year-round and weekdays during the summer.

The attraction has been around for many years; it all began in 1952 when Erich Thomsen established the Tilden South Gate & Pacific Railway, a 12-inch gauge system (later expanded to 15-inch in 1968).

Today, the railroad operates 1.25 miles of track and draws over 160,000 passengers a year.

These miniature railroads have become increasingly popular over the years, particularly the more authentic venues with live steamers and scale-structures/equipment.

The Roaring Camp offers a number of different scenic train rides to experience. They also host special dinner trains throughout the year featuring entertainment.

What became the Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad was the dream of F. Norman Clark who wanted to bring back the majesty of the steam locomotive.

His idea began in the late 1950s when steam was all but gone from main line railroads. Eventually, Clark located a 2-Truck Shay in Dixiana, Virginia that had long been removed from service and rusting away.

The Shay was a classic geared steam locomotive, created by Ephraim Shay in the late 19th century and designed to pull heavy loads at slow speeds up steep, circuitous, and poor trackage.

This made it ideal for service in the timber industry while it also found use in other applications. After acquiring it in 1958 he located nearly 200 acres of ground for lease on the Big Trees Ranch in Santa Cruz County near Felton.

This area is home to a preserved virgin stand of giant redwoods, part of which now comprises the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

With property acquired Clark set about constructing a 3-foot, narrow-gauge railroad that totaled just over 3 miles. Whether intended or not he was able to add to its realism by featuring very steep grades on the route, some of which topped out at over 9%!

In 1985 the Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge expanded its business when it launched the Santa Cruz, Big Trees & Pacific Railway.

This new system took over the former Southern Pacific's Felton Branch between Felton and Santa Cruz, a one-time narrow-gauge system.

With declining customers and washouts SP cutback the line to Rincon, which was later restored to Santa Cruz under Mr. Clark.

The Fox River Train, previously known as the Sacaramento RiverTrain, is based out of West Sacramento, features upscale dinner train packages offering entertainment with your meal during the three-hour trip. They also provide special trains and events throughout the year.

The history of this line can be traced back to a noteworthy interurban, one of the longest end-to-end system of its kind, the Sacramento Northern Railway (SN).

It's so-called "Woodland Branch," originally built by the Northern Electric Railway, ran 16-miles from West Sacramento to Woodland and remains in operation today.

The SN would later join one of California's largest railroads, the Western Pacific. In 1991, WP-successor Union Pacific sold this trackage to the Yolo Shortline Railroad which went on to merge with the Sierra Railroad in 2003 and began hosting the current dinner train after that time.

Arguably the most interesting of all scenic train rides is the San Francisco Municipal Railway. Perhaps nothing more is as quintessentially San Francisco as the city's cable cars, which have been in nearly continuous service since 1873.

The Municipal Railway keeps alive this important part of the city's history and it remains a popular tourism draw today. The system covers a nearly 50 square-mile region and hosts more than 240 million riders annually.

There are currently 82 different lines in service which are covered via bus, trolleybus, light rail, streetcar, and cable cars.

This little operation, located in Sonoma and within a small theme park, offers a range of miniature train rides operating on the 15-inch scale.

The two locomotives featured include 2-6-0 #1 (built by Winton Engineering, 1960) and 4-6-4 #5212. The railroad can trace its history back to 1958, founded by Stanley L. Frank of Oakland.

As a successful businessman who held an MBA from Harvard, Frank sought to establish a 10-acre outdoor attraction which would enable the public to ride miniature trains. It began operation in 1968 and has evolved into a popular entertainment venue ever since.

While there be sure to visit their carousel and scale-roundhouse which houses the locomotives and other equipment! TrainTown is open throughout much of the year although their dates vary depending upon the seasons.

Also operated by the same organization that owns the Skunk Train and Roaring Camp, the Sierra Railroad offers their Sierra Railroad Dinner Train, which features both dinner and entertainment.

This narrow-gauge operation, operates 4 miles of ex-Madera Sugar Pine Lumber Company trackage near Fish Camp, California in the Sierra National Forest.

It all began in 1961 thanks to the vision of Rudy Stauffer who rebuilt part of the network (Which peaked at 140 miles running all over the mountains to reach timber reserves. Its fleet totaled seven locomotives and more than 100 log/skeleton cars.) that had closed and been removed in 1931 due to the Great Depression and loss of timber reserves.

The organization has two operating Shay geared steam locomotives, both of West Side Lumber heritage; 3-Truck #15 built by the Lima Locomotive Works in 1913 and 3-Truck #10, also manufactured by Lima in 1928.

Finally, during select times throughout the operating season the railroad operates specials known as the Moonlight Special, which feature dinner and entertainment.

Colorado

Colorado train rides at the Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad are somewhat unique in that its width is only 2 feet, not the standard 3-feet of most others.

It is based in Cripple Creek, Colorado, is another of the state's many narrow-gauge tourist attractions.

The little railroad has been in operation since the summer of 1967, growing into a popular entertainment venue since that time.

Its operation covers a total of 4 miles, utilizing former segments of two historic narrow-gauge systems; the Midland Terminal Railway and Florence & Cripple Creek Railroad.

They currently have four small steam locomotives on the property, all of various historical stature:

The CC&VNG operating season is normally from late May through early October.

Aside from the Durango & Silverton, the most popular of all scenic train rides is found at the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic, which enjoys tens of thousands of visitors annually.

Its heritage interweaves with the nearby Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge as both utilize former sections of Rio Grande's famed 36-inch gauge network in southwestern Colorado.

The creation of the C&TS begins in the 1960's when the D&RGW sought abandonment of this unprofitable trackage which had garnered only lukewarm revenue for decades.

In its final years the railroad witnessed an increased interest as a tourist attraction, playing host to many excursions. As a result, the state stepped in and purchased the Durango-Silverton section in 1970.

Together with New Mexico, Colorado also acquired the Antonio - Chama segment, creating today's Cumbres & Toltec Scenic. The original steam locomotives and all structures can still be found along both preserved sections.

The most popular of all the state's scenic train rides is the marquee Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge, which operates the fabled narrow gauge lines of the former Denver & Rio Grande Western.

Folks from far and wide have ridden this national treasure which continues to use the same steam locomotives that operated under the D&RGW.

After completing the deal with the Rio Grande in 1970, Colorado received all remaining steam locomotives, freight cars/equipment, and buildings/shops.

In total, the D&SNG received eight original Denver & Rio Grande Western steam locomotives while the C&TS picked up nine. Today, nearly all are operational.

Currently, the Durango & Silverton’s passenger trains are pulled by these vintage and authentic narrow gauge locomotives that operate a 45-mile route between Durango and Silverton. The railroad also hosts many special events and trains throughout the operating season.

If you are interested in scenic train rides centered around interurban/trolley history you may want to visit the Fort Collins Municipal Railway, based in Fort Collins.

This tourist train operates 1.5-miles of the former Denver & Interurban Railroad, an interurban public-transit system that once served the city.

The history of the D&I, a subsidiary of the Colorado & Southern, can be traced back to its opening in Fort Collins on December 29, 1907.

This system also operated a much larger network stretching 51 miles from Denver to Boulder which then looped back to the former city. It also maintained a short branch to nearby Eldorado Springs.

Early on the D&I enjoyed some success as few steam railroads served its cities. However, as the automobile's popularity grew, Dr. George Hilton notes in his book, "The Electric Interurban Railways In America," deficits began appearing in 1920.

As a means of curbing losses, service throughout Fort Collins was suspended on July 10, 1918. Today, the Fort Collins Municipal Railway operates restored Birney Safety Car #21. They normally run on weekends and host special excursions throughout the year.

Arguably the most unique of all scenic train rides can be found aboard Galloping Goose #5. This uniquely restored, historic rail car was returned to operating condition in 1998. It now offers rides on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic and Durango & Silverton during select times of the year.

The narrow-gauge Georgetown Loop Railroad (maintained by the Colorado Historical Society as the Georgetown Loop Historic Mining & Railroad Park) operates a 2-mile segment of the former Colorado Central Railroad's narrow-gauge (36-inch) trackage between Georgetown and Silver Plume.

Colorado scenic train rides are largely centered around the state's historic narrow-gauge railroads and this attraction is now different.

Its heritage can be traced back to 1881 as a Colorado Central subsidiary known as the Georgetown, Breckenridge & Leadville Railroad to serve the area's thriving silver mines.

The Colorado Central was a far-reaching endeavor envisioned by William A.H. Loveland to build a standard-gauge main line from Golden to Hazard, near Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Its narrow-gauge lines would subsequently serve the aforementioned mining towns but due to the very rugged topography around Clear Creek, engineers had to devise some incredible features to maintain manageable grades.

These included horseshoe curves, 4% grades, four bridges across Clear Creek, and the Devil’s Gate High Bridge. The latter structure rose 95-feet over the gorge and is the Georgetown Loop's featured attraction today.

The Leadville, Colorado & Southern is based in the historic mining town of Leadville (also known as the "the highest incorporated city in North America") and takes passengers through the spectacular Rocky Mountains on 2.5 hour trips, which depart from the town's restored Denver, South Park & Pacific (Colorado & Southern) brick/stone depot constructed in 1883.

As far as scenic train rides are concerned this attraction operates the last component of the DSP&P still in existence.

The DSP&P grew into the second-largest narrow-gauge railroad throughout the Rocky Mountains with a network that wound its way some 340 miles from Denver to Gunnison and Leadville along with various branches.

The DSP&P, also known as the "South Park Line," was incorporated on October 2, 1872, and remained profitable until about 1883.

It was reorganized as the Denver, Leadville & Gunnison Railway in August, 1889 at which time it came under Union Pacific's control. Following UP's bankruptcy on October 13, 1893 the property became a part of the new Colorado & Southern in 1898, which itself came under Chicago, Burlington & Quincy's control in 1908.

Most of the DSP&P was abandoned over the years except for very short segments, such as the LC&S's 10.5 miles which allows for 21 mile round trips.

The tourist line utilizes a diesel, GP9 #1714 painted in LC&S colors, to pull its trains. There is also a preserved steam locomotive on display, Colorado & Southern 2-8-0 #641 (built by Alco's Brooks Works in 1906).

Unquestionably the most unique of all scenic train rides is this cog railway operates up Pike's Peak, along a line that covers nearly 9 miles and hosts trips lasting more than 3 hours.

While this isn't a traditional tourist train it's tough to find one that affords such spectacular scenery. With tourism to Pike's Peak rapidly growing by the 1880's, the first attempt at constructing a railroad to the summit was chartered in 1884.

It was to use standard adhesion to scale the mountain with a ruling grade of 5% and switchbacks to keep grades manageable.

While some work was completed the plan stalled due to monetary issues. So, a cheaper alternative was arranged; a plain dirt wagon road.

Before this latest plan could be completed, Zalmon Simmons rode a mule to the top and was so awestruck by the beauty that he firmly believed it should be available for the general public.

Realizing that a railroad would be the best and most efficient means of transporting guests to the top, and with resources already available, Simmons founded the Pike's Peak & Manitou Railway in 1888.

In 1889 the road was renamed as the Manitou & Pike's Peak Railway and began construction within the year. In 1890 the M&PP was opened about half way to the appropriately named Halfway House Hotel and by 1891 the route was completed to the Pike's Peak summit at 14,115 feet, 8.9 miles from Manitou.

If you're interested in additional scenic train rides geared towards trolleys the Platte Valley Trolley offers just such an attraction.

They operate from mid-April through the end of October every weekend using trolley cars along a route that allows for about a 25-minute ride. This heritage streetcar system is maintained by the Denver Tramway Heritage Society and was inaugurated on July 4, 1989.

In what many would argue is the most breathtaking of all scenic train rides, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad operates part of the Denver & Rio Grande Western’s trackage through this beautiful natural wonder.

The Royal Gorge Route owns 24 miles of this legendary stretch of the Rio Grande, departing daily from Cañon City, Colorado.

The Royal Gorge Route was created in 1998 after Union Pacific decided to sell 12 miles of the Royal Gorge pass although the Class I railroad continues to own the rest of the dormant route.

While the river and gorge remain the top attraction the Hanging Bridge also draws visitors, a structure built by the Santa Fe during the two railroad's war for the canyon.

The structure uses angled supports anchored to each side of the canyon walls to sustain the bridge's weight over the river. It is a fascinating design that remains the keynote feature (during the Rio Grande's days it was a popular spot for publicity photos).

Today, the Royal Gorge Route offers a variety of adventures from cab rides and group charters to several different excursions.

The Tiny Town Railroad is located in Morrison offering scenic train rides using authentic, miniature steam locomotives.

This attraction is somewhat unique in that the railroad operates through an entire, scale town, complete with every store and building one could imagine!

Its history can actually be traced back over a century when George Turner built the "town" of "Turnerville" as an entertainment venue for his daughter in 1915.

Just five years later it had garnered so much interest it opened to the public. By 1924 it contained some 125 buildings with roughly 20,000 visitors making the trek each year to see the town!

Since that time it has had boom and bust periods although its modern era can be traced back to 1987 of what by then was known as "Tiny Town" was underway.

By 1989 more than 60,000 folks were visiting the site annually, a number that has grown considerably since that time. Admission to the town is required with an operating season lasting from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Delaware

This tourist line has grown into a popular attraction since it first began in 1966 on a former Baltimore & Ohio branch.

Today it operates 10.2 miles between Wilmington and Hockessin and continues to pull trains with steam locomotives.

The history of railroading in the Red Clay Valley begins with the chartering of the original Wilmington & Western Railroad in 1867, intended to push rails along the creek and handle freight to the Port of Wilmington.

After only five years of construction the line was opened between Wilmington and Landenberg, Pennsylvania on October 19, 1872.

While less than 20 miles in length the corridor provided connections with the Baltimore & Ohio and Pennsylvania Railroads while offering a respectable level of freight.

Unfortunately, bankruptcy still found the company in 1877 and it was later reorganized under new management as the Delaware Western Railroad (DWRR).

For a time even passenger traffic was quite strong thanks to the opening of a popular resort at Brandywine Springs.

The prosperous years, however, survived only until the early 1920s; in 1923 the resort closed causing a great loss of passenger business and the Great Depression ended all passenger trains after September 28, 1930.

Alas, the line's biggest blow also came during the depression when the PRR elected to discontinue service to Landenberg resulting in a significant loss of freight business.

As a result, the B&O cut the branch back to Southwood during the early World War II era which left a route consisting of 11.3 miles.

The 1960s saw the beginnings of what later became today's popular Wilmington & Western. In 1966 the Historic Red Clay Valley, Inc., using the former W&W's name, leased part of the line to host steam-powered excursions during the weekend.

This continued for about a decade until the Chessie System, a conglomerate comprising the B&O, Chesapeake & Ohio, and Western Maryland, opted to abandon the line.

Fortunately, thanks to local fundraising efforts Historic Red Clay Valley was able to purchase the entire property in 1982.

Since then, the W&W has steadily grown in popularity although it has experienced its own setbacks thanks to Mother Nature's wrath. Throughout the year they also host several special events.

Hawaii

The Hawaiian Railway Society, based in Ewa on the island of Oahu, operates short 90-minute scenic train rides on a former stretch of the Oahu Railway & Land Company (OR&L).

During the journey you will hear about the history of this railroad and the sugar cane operations that were once prolific in the area.

According to Dr. Hilton's book, the OR&L was chartered by Benjamin Franklin Dillingham on September 11, 1888, a franchise signed into law by King Kalakaua.

Its purpose was to serve sugar plantations, opening its first segment between Aiea and Honolulu on September 16, 1889 (9 miles).

In the succeeding years it headed west, followed the coast, and reached Kaena Point on June 1, 1898. The railroad eventually wrapped its way around the island and terminated at Kahuku on December 28, 1898, interchanging there with the Koolau Railway.

In 1906 it completed one notable a branch, an 11-mile spur from Waipahu Junction at Pearl Harbor to Wahiawa which served a pineapple plantation.

This line was later extended to a connection with the main line near Waialua during World War II for defensive measures.

The Kauai Plantation Railway is based in Lihue on the island of Kauai. A relatively new tourist train it operates a 2.5-mile section of former Kauai Railway.

This small system was established in 1906 by the Theodore H. Davies & Company to serve sugar mills situated along the island's southern shore.

It would eventually open an 11-mile route running eastward from Eleele Landing (Port Allen) to the Koloa Mill with another short branch (2 miles) serving the town of Koloa.

In addition, it utilized trackage to the west owned by the McBryde Sugar Company and Hawaiian Sugar Company to serve the Makaweli Sugar Mill.

The railroad was built to the odd width of 2-feet, 6-inches but did carry common-carrier status (although few passengers ever rode its trains). It was a short-lived affair and was abandoned in 1933.

Today's tourist attraction operates with a Whitcomb diesel locomotive but plans to restore steam locomotives that were original to the narrow-gauge.

The Pineapple Express, located in Wahiawa on the island of Oahu, provides train rides at the Dole Plantation. This attraction offers a wide range of things to do from tours of the property to scenic train rides on their Pineapple Express.

The excursion uses open-air cars powered by a three narrow-gauge "steam locomotives" (3-foot), although all three are actually diesel-powered.

The two-mile trip lasts about 20 minutes and provides narration of the plantation and its history. There are two different rides available named the Pineapple Express, and Aloha Express.

The plantation is open nearly year-round and there is an admission required to ride the train.

Indiana

The Hesston Steam Museum, operated by the LaPorte County Historical Steam Society and based in Hesston, is an organization dedicated to the preservation of steam-powered machines.

Among their collection are several operating narrow-gauge steam locomotives of various types, leisurely taking passengers on short trips along 2.5 miles of track. They also run scale trains of various size.

The Indiana Railway Museum, which also operates the popular French Lick Scenic Railway, is based in French Lick, Indiana. They operate a 20-mile round trip excursion over former Southern Railway trackage through the Hoosier National Forest.

Special events and excursions are also operated throughout the year such as dessert trains, Halloween specials, and the Polar Express for the Christmas season.

The Indiana Railway Museum's mission is to preserve Indiana's railroading history and the industry's in general.

The IRM features more than 65 pieces of historic railroad equipment, is proudly maintained by more than 400 members/volunteers/paid staff, and enjoys more than 25,000 visitors annually.

The history of the organization begins in 1961 when a group of locals from Westport launched a small tourist line using a diesel locomotive and three passenger coaches.

The museum moved operations in 1971 to Greensburg and again moved in 1978 to French Lick when the Southern Railway offered 16 miles of a former branch between West Baden and Dubois (passing through French Lick). Today, the museum operates about 10 miles of this line between French Lick and Cuzco.

This excursion is located in northeast Indiana with trips departing from various locations including Angola, South Milford, Pleasant Lake, and Hillsdale (Michigan). The trips are operated in a partnership between the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society and the Indiana Northeastern Railroad, the latter a short line freight carrier.

The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society is well known as being home to Nickel Plate 2-8-4 #765, a famous Berkshire type steam locomotive which has handled many public excursions for many years.

The Indiana Rail Experience runs from May through December with several special events hosted throughout the season, including fall foliage trips and Christmas trains. Visit their website for complete scheduling and available trips.

The Ohio River Scenic operates over the former Southern Railway's Cannelton Branch, running 22.7 miles from Lincoln City to Cannelton via Evanston. The line hosts freight service as the Hoosier Southern Railroad.

They offer several special excursions every year from Valentine's Day trips to Mother's Day specials, in addition to several events during the holiday season. You can also take part in a locomotive cab ride.

This attraction has grown in popularity in recent years, thanks in part to the scenery afforded throughout southern Indiana and, in particular, along the Ohio River.

What would certainly be considered one of Indiana's more popular excursions is the Whitewater Valley Railroad based in Connersville.

Like the former Carthage, Knightstown & Shirley this operation utilizes former Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago & St. Louis (better known as the "Big Four," a New York Central subsidiary) trackage.

Its 19-mile line connects Metamora and their trains are powered by one of several diesel locomotives on the grounds.

While there are currently no steam locomotives in use the group has several preserved. These include:

The railroad also hosts a number of special events throughout the year such as the Polar Express and "A Day Out With Thomas" the tank engine.

Missouri

The Belton, Grandview & Kansas City Railroad is based in Belton, Missouri and offers a 5-mile excursion on former St. Louis-San Francisco ("Frisco") trackage.

The line was one of three the railroad once maintained between Springfield and Kansas City! Today's attraction began as the Kansas City Railroad Museum in 1964, an organization operated by the Smoky Hill Railway & Historical Society.

Following a handful of moves they settled on a location in Belton during 1995. Today, the railroad operates several seasonal specials and also offers cab rides.

Their locomotive collection includes a pair of steam locomotives on static display as well as a few diesels.

The former include Okmulgee Northern Railway 2-8-0 #5 (built by American Locomotive's Cooke Works in 1923 and St. Louis-San Francisco 2-10-0 #1632 (manufactured by Baldwin in 1918).

The group's two diesels include Chesapeake & Ohio GP9 (originally numbered 6142) and a little 25-ton switcher manufactured by the Plymouth Locomotive Works.

The Branson Scenic Railway is a tourist attraction operated in conjunction with short line freight carrier Missouri & Northern Arkansas Railroad between Galena and Self, Missouri (trains depart from Branson).

This particular corridor date back to 1902 when the White River Railway was founded that year. It eventually became part of the Missouri Pacific, better known by railroaders and railfans as the “MoPac.”

The Branson Scenic came about in 1993; since its inception the railroad operates either north to Galena or south to Self, depending on how the freight line's operations are playing out that particular day.

Because the trains pass through Missouri's beautiful Ozark Mountains visitors can experience passage through a number of tunnels and bridges during their journey.

Overall the railroad is quite scenic and well worth the trip through a region sometimes forgotten for its beauty and ruggedness.

This attraction is located within the Frank Vaydik Line Creek Park at Kansas City offering 16-inch-gauge scale train rides.

The all-volunteer, 501(c)3 non-profit organization was formed in 1984 when the Kansas City Parks & Recreation Department wanted the former Kansas City Zoo railroad to restore the operation.

The three diesels which normally operate are based on Electro-Motive's successful "F" series line of streamlined, cab model locomotives;

This attraction is located at Rothwell Park in Moberly offering 12-inch-gauge scale train rides on a 1-mile loop.

While there are no live steam locomotives operating they do have a nice collection of diesel locomotives which are based on actual model types.

The St. Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern Railroad is based in Jackson and since 1986 has offered a 10-mile excursion through the rolling, open countryside of southeastern Missouri.

The railroad normally uses a former Pennsylvania Railroad E8A (built as #5898-A in 1951) to pull its trains but also has 2-4-2 #5 on-hand, a steam locomotive which is currently out-of-service and under a long term restoration (it was manufactured by the H.K. Porter Company in 1946 for the Central Illinois Public Service).

The St. Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern name is quite historic, as it formed a primary component of the modern Missouri Pacific, a system pieced together in larger part through the efforts of notorious tycoon Jay Gould.

The current tourist attraction offers a number of special runs throughout the year such as a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, "The Santa Express," and Chuck Wagon Dinners.

This little operation, maintained by the Wabash, Frisco, & Pacific Association, is another 1-foot-gauge, scale train ride, located in Glencoe.

The railroad operates miniature, live steam locomotives which power trains on a 2-mile, round trip which last about a half-hour.

The history of this attraction is much older than what most realize. The group was formed in 1939, utilizing 4-4-2 #171 which operated over about 1 mile of track on 30 acres of property near Brown Road and Natural Bridge.

Unfortunately, rising property values near what is today St. Louis Lambert International Airport forced them to move with a final run being made on July 19, 1959.

They have been based at their current location since 1961. Since that time the group has added numerous buildings, including a car barn, roundhouse, and a locomotive fleet totaling four steamers! They are open every Sunday between May and October (rain or shine!).

Nevada

The Nevada Northern Railway looks to generally preserve the history of the state's once profitable copper industry.

The railroad has been in operation (albeit not continuously) since 1905. Unfortunately, freight operations have not been performed since 1986 when the Kennecott Minerals Company turned over much of the property to the White Pine Historical Railroad.

Today, the railroad is operated as part of the Nevada Northern Railway Museum. They offer several different special train rides including BBQ Trains, wine trains, charters, the Chocolate Express, and holiday specials.

Also, between the Nevada Northern and the museum they have nine steam locomotives on-hand, five of which are operational (and two of those are original Nevada Northern locomotives).

Finally, be sure to check out their many pieces of rolling stock and locomotives on display, including several steam locomotives.

The Nevada Southern Railway is based in Boulder City, Nevada in the southern region of the state.

It operates on trackage once owned by a railroad known by the same name, a government-sponsored operation which helped construct the Hoover Dam.

Today the railroad offers a number of special rides and events throughout the year and their coaches are fully climate controlled.

The organization also houses a collection of rolling stock and locomotives, including three steam locomotives (all of which sit on display). These include:

While on the grounds also be sure and visit the Nevada State Railroad Museum's even more impressive steam collection, which currently includes six examples, three of which are operational.

The Virginia and Truckee Railway began with its 1869 chartering to provide transportation services to the Reno and Carson City areas.

While the V&T provided a means of moving vast quantities of silver ore it also offered a way to ship in lumber, men, and other materials needed to extract this product.

As mining dried up and with little other traffic available, the railroad ceased to exist by 1950.

It gained a new purpose soon after its closing as a backdrop for countless Hollywood western films, and it was then the railroad earned its popularity.

However, this too played out by the 1960s at which point most of the rails were taken up.

They began to be re-laid by the 1970s although the railroad's true rebirth began during the early 1990s when a major push was undertaken to rebuild the line as a tourist attraction.

Today, about 15 miles are operable although rebuilding of the route is not yet complete along with additional restorations of locomotives and equipment.

New Hampshire

Based in North Woodstock, New Hampshire the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train offers only trips where meals are served on-board.

The 20-mile trip operates southward to Thornton over a section of what was formerly a Boston & Maine branch.

The upscale attraction (which has been featured in TripAdvisor and even the Wall Street Journal) began in the spring of 1989 and currently utilizes three cars:

This excursions largely operate four days a week, including weekends. You can also book the train for special events or large groups.

The Conway Scenic Railroad, based in North Conway, New Hampshire is one of New England's most popular scenic train rides, offering first-class dining services through beautiful New England in the Mt. Washington Valley.

They also offer standard excursions as well as numerous seasonal trains and special events such as "A Day Out With Thomas" the tank engine.

The attraction's first train departed on August 4, 1974 when Bill Levy and Carroll Reed acquired a 7-mile segment of Boston & Maine's Conway Branch from Conway to Intervale.

To lead the trains former Canadian National 0-6-0 #7470 (Class O-18a, manufactured by the Grand Trunk Railway in 1921) was also acquired.

The operation was extended through Crawford Notch in late 1994 following Maine Central's abandonment of its fabled Mountain Division in 1984. This trackage is currently owned by the state of New Hampshire.

The original owners sold out to Russ and Dot Seybold in 1999, who subsequently sold their interest to the Profile Mountain Holdings Corporation in early 2018.

The Hobo Railroad, based in Lincoln, New Hampshire offers train excursions along the Pemigewasset River with trains boarding from the local town depot.

The railroad also features dinner trains and special excursions throughout the year. The attraction began in 1986 as the Plymouth & Lincoln Railroad, owned by husband and wife team, Edward and Brenda Clark.

It ran a total of 7 miles from Woodstock to Lincoln over the same trackage (ex-Boston & Maine) currently used by the Café Lafayette Dinner Train.

Over the years, the operation has expanded to the point that it now also maintains the former Boston & Maine line from Concord to Lincoln, all of which is owned by the state of New Hampshire.

This property predominantly handles excursions but the 19-mile segment from Tilton to Concord also hosts freight trains of the New England Southern Railroad.

The Mount Washington Cog Railway is one, if not the, most popular such attractions in the country.

As its name implies the company offers scenic train rides traveling up Mount Washington, some of which still utilize steam power. It is the world's oldest cog railroad system dating back to the late 1860s.

The operation was conceived by Sylvester Marsh who believed the railroad would become a popular tourist attraction after he climbed New Hampshire's Mount Washington in the early 1850s.

His idea proved to be quite a success and, just like the Manitou & Pike's Peak Railway in Colorado, thousands of folks continue to descend upon Bretten Woods annually to ride the train.

Interestingly, the railroad does not scale the entire mountain but begins about a quarter of the way up with grades reaching incredible levels, peaking at 37.4%! (In regards to standard railroads, a 3% grade is considered steep!)

For much of its existence the Mt. Washington line relied on standard steam power to shove trains up the slope but today it uses cheaper, and more environmentally friendly, bio-diesel units alongside its steamers.

The White Mountain Central Railroad is based in Lincoln and departs from the local train station on a 2.5-mile excursion that usually lasts about 30 minutes.

The railroad is rare in that it operates a pair of geared steam locomotives which include Beebe River Railroad 2-Truck Climax #6 (built by the Climax Locomotive Works in 1921) and International Shoe Company 2-Truck Heisler #4 (built in 1929).

There area also two additional small steamers which are operational; East Branch & Lincoln Railroad 2-4-2ST #5 (built by Baldwin in 1906) and Koppers Company 0-4-0T #1 (a 1930 product of H.K. Porter).

Finally, the Clark Family also has East Branch & Lincoln 2-Truck Shay #5 (a 1919 product of the Lima Locomotive Works) on display. It is owned, along with the Hobo Railroad and Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train, by the Clarks.

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, based in Weirs Beach, New Hampshire offers several different excursion trains and special events throughout the year, operating on trackage once owned by the Boston & Maine Railroad.

It is yet another property owned by the Clark Family with trips running along the beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee.

New Mexico

What was formerly known as the Santa Fe Southern Railway (which closed in 2014), this new excursion launched on December 3, 2021 and is based in Santa Fe along the former AT&SF branch line to Lamy.

Passenger trains board from the restored mission-style depot on 410 South Guadalupe Street in Santa Fe.

The Santa Fe Southern operation had a rollercoaster history; it was mothball between 2012-2014 and then came under new management.

This group hoped to revitalize the attraction as an upscale operation with fine dining, first-class accommodations, and other special events. However, the project fell through and operations closed again at the end of the 2014 season.

In 2020, a group of entrepreneurs purchased the property and worked for more than a year to restore the operation for continued excursion service.

They will host holiday-themed rides and other special events throughout the year with excursions centered around entertainment and a moving stage.

New York

One of the most popular scenic train rides in New York can be found at the Adirondack Railroad, first launched in 1992 as the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.

Today, it operates between Utica and Thendara/Carter with work to reopen the section between the latter point and Tupper Lake. For many years the railroad had attempted to reopen the entire branch to Lake Placid, a distance of over 150 miles, but that dream was never realized before the northern section was converted into a trail.

The Adirondack offers several different special excursion trains throughout the year including their Wine Train, The Polar Express during the holidays, Halloween Trains, and even the very popular Murder Mystery trains.

The Arcade & Attica Railroad, based in Arcade, New York operates on trackage originally built and owned by the Buffalo, Attica & Arcade Railroad.

The railroad also hauls freight with its train rides running between late May and December. They host several special events throughout the season.

Another popular New York train ride is the Catskill Mountain Railroad based in Kingston. It operates on trackage built by the Ulster & Delaware Railroad, later acquired by the New York Central. It travels through the beautiful Catskill Mountain region and carried a record year recently witnessing more than 40,000 annual riders.

The Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad is operated by the Leatherstocking Railway Historical Society. The group utilizes trackage originally built a railroad known as the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley. Trains operate through the upper Susquehanna River Valley and are powered by a few historic diesel locomotives.

The Delaware & Ulster Railroad, operated by the Catskill Revitalization Corporation, is based in Stamford. The system utilizes part of the same corridor (ex-New York Central) which the Catskill Mountain Railroad hosts excursions (originally built by the Ulster & Delaware Railroad).

Their trains travel through the scenic Catskill Mountain region, currently running between Roxbury to Arkville. According to the railroad:

"After a hiatus for track work, the Delaware & Ulster is scheduled to return for the summer of 2023, running through fall foliage season and potentially beyond.

Visitors will once again be able to relax on the open car or coach and will also be home to the "Silver Rose" dining train, offering delicious food and drink aboard an exquisite vintage train car.

The Delaware & Ulster Railroad is located just three hours north of New York City via the New York State Thruway. Our station and other facilities are fully accessible with ample parking for motor coaches, buses, and automobiles.

Special Instructions: Groups/passengers can call our office at (845) 586-3877 but our most up to date information will be at our website.

North Carolina

One of the more unique scenic train rides in North Carolina can be found at the Charlotte Trolley which tells the history of Charlotte's former interurban operations. The trolley operates on the weekend, Saturday and Sunday, and current has two cars operational.

Without question, the most popular of all North Carolina train rides can be found at the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad in Bryson City.

This attraction has been in operation since 1988 using tracks once owned by the venerable Southern Railway, which the company called its Murphy Branch.

Train rides are hosted throughout much of the year although they also offer special events, such as "Thomas The Train" and holiday festivities. The railroad is covered in more detail here.

The New Hope Valley Railway, based in New Hill, hosts North Carolina train rides on trackage originally built by the New Hope Valley Railroad, which later part of the Seaboard Air Line system.

They currently have a multitude of various diesel locomotive switchers they use to power their trains along with one operable 0-4-0T steam locomotive.

The Tweetsie Railroad, based in Blowing Rock, North Carolina has been operating since 1957 and utilizes a section of the historic East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad (nicknamed the "Tweetsie," this classic narrow-gauge system once served both its namesake states).

If there are two North Carolina scenic train rides you should experience it is the Tweetsie and Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

Today, they use 3 miles of track to host trips, most often employing their, 4-6-0 "Ten wheeler", #12, to pull excursions. A further history of the railroad can be found here at the site. Finally, for more reading about the original ET&WNC system please click here.

North Dakota

Located in Mandan (across the Missouri River from Bismarck) this organization offers a 9-mile trip along the Heart River to Fort Lincoln State Park carrying passenger in restored streetcars.

Oregon

The Eagle Cap Excursion Train, based in Elgin, operates train rides in northeast Oregon on trackage owned by the Wallowa Union Railroad Authority, a short line freight carrier.

The trains utilize RDC's (short for "Rail Diesel Cars," a self-propelled vehicle manufactured by the Budd Company) for their excursions that follow the Grande Ronde River.

This organization hosts scale-train rides (15 and 24-inch gauge equipment) and is located in Canby. Their season begins each year on Memorial Day.

Owned and operated by the Southern Oregon Railway Historical Society the park features a "1 1/2-inch scale live steam train rides, HO scale model layout, displays of full size railroad equipment used in the area, a garden railway (G scale) layout and a working exhibit of Morse telegraphy."

The Mount Hood Railroad hosts train rides between Hood River and Parkdale (about 60 miles) along a corridor that carriers a heritage dating back to 1906.

The company currently provides freight service alongside its passenger trains and offers guests a wide range of amenities within climate-controlled cars.

The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad is based in Tillamook. It is one of the state's most popular train rides and has operated on the Port of Tillamook Bay Railroad since 2002 using a historic Climax geared steam locomotive.

Along with standard excursion trains the railroad also operates special and seasonal trains throughout the year, including dinner trains.

The Sumpter Valley Railroad, based in Sumpter, is located in northeast Oregon. It operates on trackage originally owned by the Sumpter Valley Railway.

The railroad was created to preserve this corridor and today hosts popular train rides while continually restoring the trackage. They currently have two operational steam locomotives on their property.

Located in Portland at Washington Park the railroad is a 2-foot, 6-inch narrow-gauge scale train. It transports visitors between the Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, International Rose Test Garden, and the World Forestry Center.

The Willamette Shore Trolley is operated by the Oregon Electric Railway Museum, the largest trolley/interurban museum in the Pacific Northwest. It currently operates trolley service on a 6-mile section of railroad between Lake Oswego and Portland.

South Dakota

The state's only notable excursion line, the "1880 Train" features historic steam locomotives and one of the only places in the country that utilizes the "Mallet" compound design (2-6-6-2T #110).

The railroad's trackage is a section of the former Chicago, Burlington & Quincy's Keystone Branch running between Hill City and Keystone, South Dakota.

They also host a number of specials during the year, including the Holiday Express; a Christmas-decorated train allowing kids to see Santa and receive a small gift.

As one of the premier such attractions in the country, the Black Hills Central is a must-see! They not only operate another steam locomotive, 2-6-2T #103, but also display several other steamers on their property.

Texas

The Austin Steam Train, based in Austin, Texas, hosts excursions through the "Hill Country" using tracks once owned by the Southern Pacific.

The line is 163 miles long and used as both a commuter and freight rail line with the Steam Train having permission to operate excursions. Along with their standard trips the association also features murder mystery specials, seasonal rides, and charters.

This attraction is located at 1700 Colonial Parkway in Fort Worth and boasts a 5-mile trip from the Forest Park Depot to the Duck Pond in Trinity Park. The rides last about 30-45 minutes. The little railroad has been in operation since 1959.

The Grapevine Railroad, based Grapevine, Texas operates train rides between its headquarters and Fort Worth on trackage originally owned by the St. Louis Southwestern Railway (Cotton Belt).

Along with two operable steam locomotives the railroad also has a GP7 diesel on hand. It operates numerous specials throughout the year (such as hosting "A Day Out With Thomas" the tank engine) along with their standard excursion schedule.

The Historic Jefferson Railway, also known as the Jefferson & Cypress Bayou Railway, is a 3-foot, narrow-gauge located in Jefferson, Texas.

It has been in service since 1985 and uses 4-4-0 #7 for power, hosting trips on a 3-mile journey through the Big Cypress Bayou. The railroad also features several special rides and other trips throughout the year.

The only operating vintage trolley service in the state, the McKinney Avenue Transit Authority serves its namesake street in Dallas (in the Uptown district) as well as a section of St. Paul Street and Cole Avenue. Service is provided via restored trolley cars that are climate controlled.

The state's most popular train ride is the Texas State Railroad, based in Rusk and Palestine, Texas. Using trackage once owned by the Southern Pacific the railroad features two operating steam locomotives and a vintage diesel locomotive (Alco RS2). Along with their standard excursions the railroad hosts numerous specials throughout the year.

Wisconsin

The Lumberjack Steam Train is located in Laona, Wisconsin and operated by the Camp 5 Museum which preserves the area's logging history. Their trains are pulled by a 2-6-2 steam locomotive (built for the Fairchild & North-Eastern Railway by the Vulcan Iron Works in 1916), that boards from the restored Soo Line depot in Laona.

This tourist attraction is located in Eau Claire and offers visitors the chance to ride a one-quarter scale train ride.

The East Troy Electric Railroad Museum is Wisconsin's only heritage interurban railway, operating between East Troy and Mukwonago using restored trolley cars.

The Mid-Continent Railway Museum, based in North Freedom, preserves the region and state's rail history. In doing so it also operates an excursion, lasting 50-minutes via trackage originally owned by the Chicago & North Western.

Based in Osceola, Wisconsin, along the border with Minnesota, this tourist railroad hosts rides operated by the Minnesota Transportation Museum with a typical season running between May and October.

Their longest excursion is a 20-mile round trip lasting nearly two hours. They also offer a wide range of special holiday excursions and brunch/dinner trains.

This attraction is located in Wisconsin Dells and features a fascinating, 15-inch scale trains available to ride, pulled by live steam locomotives!

The history of the property dates back to the 1940s and currently offers trips on their 3-mile right-of-way. Throughout the year they also host special excursions.

This miniature train is part of the larger Little Amerricka amusement park located in Marshall. The 16-inch scale trains use live steam locomotives pulling guests around the grounds.

The Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad acts as both a freight and tourist railroad, hosting scenic train rides over former Chicago & North Western Railway trackage between Spooner and Springbrook.

The railroad has steadily grown and now hosts dinner trains between February and December each year. Along with dinner trains they also operates season specials, such as during Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

As with many zoos the Milwaukee County Zoo is home to a miniature train which operates around the grounds and shuttles guests to different areas of the park.

Individual Excursions

Defunct Lines

Premier Experiences

There are many great scenic railroads to experience but if you are truly interested in riding the best-of-best, there is a reason why names like the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge, Strasburg Railroad, Grand Canyon Railway, Verde Canyon Railway, and White Pass & Yukon are so popular.

They host long rides in very-well maintained equipment (usually climate-controlled), provide a range of special events throughout the year, operate through absolutely spectacular scenery, offer some type of dining/cuisine/beverages, and furnish trips lasting hours.

The Grand Canyon Railway stands out, in particular. The company operates the former Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe's 64-mile Grand Canyon Branch from the main line at Williams, Arizona to the canyon's South Rim.

There, travelers can stay at the Santa Fe's historic El Tovar Hotel (among other accommodations) or simply enjoy the incredible views.

During your trip the train provides many levels of service, from standard to coach to dome-car settings. If you have the means, this railroad is very much worth a visit!

Scenic Train Rides By State (2024): A Complete Guide

History

What To Expect

State Guide

Arizona

California

Colorado

Delaware

Hawaii

Indiana

Missouri

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Mexico

New York

North Carolina

North Dakota

Oregon

South Dakota

Texas

Wisconsin

Individual Excursions

Defunct Lines

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