Want to enjoy California’s beautiful redwood forests without having to don hiking boots? This steam train from Roaring Camp is an absolute must! Hop on this authentic train from 1890 for an open-air trip through the redwoods in the Bay Area. Roaring Camp is currently offering several special holiday train routes complete with epic decorations, Christmas carols, and more.
Holiday and special events trains
The Santa Cruz train route always has fun seasonal events throughout the year! Here are some upcoming holiday trains you don’t want to miss.
Holiday Lights Train
Nov. 24-25, Dec. 2-3, 9-10, 16-23
Roaring Camp recently announced the return of their beloved holiday lights train in Santa Cruz. Take in the gorgeous vintage train decked out with sparkling holiday lights and decorations.
Holiday Tree Walk
Nov. 24-26, Dec. 2-3, 9-10, 16-17
Bring the family to for a wintery journey through the redwoods aboard the Redwood Forest Steam Train. Sip hot cider while greeting Santa Claus and enjoy winter-themed activities.
Chanukah Train
Dec. 7
Board a Chanukah-themed train through the streets of Santa Cruz complete with Chanukah stories, dreidel games, and kosher treats from Chabad by the Sea.
New Year’s Train
Dec. 26-Jan. 3, 2024
Ring in 2024 aboard a beautifully-decorated vintage train with light-up hula hoopers and live DJs.
Redwood Forest Steam Train
Departing daily
This 19th-century steam train will take you up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain. The 75-minute roundtrip is like a gorgeous voyage into the past, on locomotives that date back to 1890! These narrow-gauge trestles were once used for hauling redwood logs in the late 19th century, and there are very few such trains still in operation today. Enjoy the views as conductors explain the history of Roaring Camp, the trains, and the surrounding forest.
Santa Cruz Beach Train
Returning Spring 2024
This route takes you through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, down the San Lorenzo River Gorge, and along the waterfront of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Highlights include passing over a 1909 steel truss bridge and through an 1875 tunnel! The route opened that same year in order to transport beachgoers to Santa Cruz, as well as lumber.
Roaring Camp Railroads is located at 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA.