Journey through towering redwoods aboard an historic narrow-gauge steam locomotive
75 Minutes
Steam train ride, Narrated history
Ride a century-old steam locomotive through majestic redwood forest on a 75-minute journey to Bear Mountain. Hear engaging commentary about local history and logging heritage.
Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. A $5 reschedule fee applies if you need to change your appointment time. Up to two infants under 2 may ride free per paid adult. Parking is $10 and paid at the gate upon arrival.
Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you arrive late and miss your train, there may not be space on another departure.
The Redwood Forest Steam Train Ride is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes roundtrip.
The ride travels over trestles, through towering redwood groves, and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain.
Yes. Conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad, and the forest during the ride.
5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA. Please check in with the ticket office at Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton when you arrive to obtain your boarding pass.
Roaring Camp Railroads invites guests to experience the magic of the Santa Cruz Mountains aboard beautifully preserved historic trains. Known for its Redwood Forest Steam Train and Santa Cruz Beach Train, Roaring Camp blends scenic adventure with rich local history, carrying riders through towering redwoods, across trestles, and along stunning mountain routes. It’s a memorable way for families, couples, and explorers of all ages to discover the beauty and heritage of the region.
This historic steam train operation draws visitors mainly for its scenic ride through towering redwood forests. Most guests praise the educational and fun experience, with conductors sharing fascinating details about the trees, local history, and the mountain terrain. The train climbs some impressive hills and ventures deep into the forest, offering views that genuinely wow riders. Beyond the train ride, there's a charming general store, entertainment like a blacksmith demonstration, and various family activities that add to the old-fashioned camp atmosphere. The main concern worth noting involves crowding and overselling on certain days, particularly during special events like Thomas the Tank Engine weekends. Some visitors found themselves uncomfortably packed into train cars with confusing boarding procedures and unhelpful staff guidance. A few guests also mentioned that the actual redwood viewing from the train can be limited compared to simply walking the nearby trails. The quality of special events seems to vary by year, with some regulars noticing fewer activities and more wear than previous visits. Despite these hiccups, the majority find it a worthwhile family outing that combines natural beauty with educational entertainment.
It was our first time visiting Roaring Camp, and we had an absolute blast! Sitting in the train and taking in all the beautiful scenery was such a cool experience. What made it even better was the history they shared during the ride—it was so interesting to learn about the train and the area while enjoying the view. It’s a perfect mix of fun and education. We highly recommend it for a great day out!
Tanya Pena
July 6, 2026
It was our first time visiting Roaring Camp, and we had an absolute blast! Sitting in the train and taking in all the beautiful scenery was such a cool experience. What made it even better was the history they shared during the ride—it was so interesting to learn about the train and the area while enjoying the view. It’s a perfect mix of fun and education. We highly recommend it for a great day out!
Tanya Pena
July 6, 2026