Journey through towering redwoods aboard an historic narrow-gauge steam locomotive
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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.
Step back in time aboard Roaring Camp Railroads, where lovingly restored 19th-century steam engines climb through towering redwoods, cross 1909 trestles, and follow the sunlit San Lorenzo River all the way to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Friendly conductors weave colorful tales of logging camps and mountain lore, turning every mile into living history. Whether you join a family holiday train, a moonlit dinner ride, or a brisk summit trip to Bear Mountain, Roaring Camp delivers heritage, scenery, and heartfelt California hospitality in one unforgettable journey.
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.
Fun train ride and friendly staff!
jeremy harms
April 1, 2026
Fun train ride and friendly staff!
jeremy harms
April 1, 2026