Have you ever thought of taking a ride on a historic steam train? The first steam locomotive put to use in the states was back in 1829, but many associate the trains with the romance of the Victorian era. If you’re looking for ideas for a fun family vacation this summer, you might consider a destination that offers the opportunity to take a journey back in time as you ride the rails through some of the most picturesque locations in the nation.
Durango, Colorado
Durango is located in the southwest region of Colorado and offers almost an endless number of recreational activities and fun attractions. It’s also home to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The narrow gauge train was built specifically to handle narrow mountain routes, and this route between Durango and Silverton is one of the most breathtaking in the country.
Rides are offered all year long, with several different packages available as well as a wide variety of seating options from luxury cars to the basics. For those who want an added adventure, consider combining the trip with white-water rafting or a horseback ride. Reservations should be made as early in advance as possible.
Just 48 miles west of Durango, you’ll find Mesa Verde National Park, a fascinating place to explore with thousands of archaeological sites such as cliff dwellings, interpretive loops, and scenic pullouts with views of ancient cliff dwellings.
Felton, California
For those who might be thinking of visiting California’s spectacular central coast region, you’ll find Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton, just 10 minutes from Santa Cruz, set among the beautiful towering redwood trees.
Riders travel over trestles as they ride the rails through the majestic redwood groves and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain. There is also a “beach train” offered, which will take guests through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and directly to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
In addition to the wild roller coaster rides at the Boardwalk, Santa Cruz offers miles of trails perfect for biking and endless golden sand for sunning or just staring out at the beautiful expanse of the Pacific Ocean.
Baker City, Oregon
The Sumpter Valley Railroad depot is located 23 miles southwest of Baker City, Oregon, in the beautiful northeast region of the state. The historic “Stump Dodger” treats passengers to an old-fashioned narrow gauge steam train ride through the heart of Gold Rush Country between McEwen and the historic mining town of Sumpter.
This less-traveled region of Oregon is perfect for those who would prefer to avoid the hassle of crowds, with the town tucked away in the trees of the breathtaking Elkhorn Mountain Range. Sumpter is on the Elkhorn Scenic Byway and is surrounded by mountains, rivers, streams, and lakes. It’s filled with history and fascinating stories of the old west, and people come for miles to visit its flea markets, held on Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day weekends.
The town of Baker City itself has a beautifully restored historical downtown district filled with antique shops, museums, coffee shops, and even an eclectic wine bar/art gallery.
K.C. Dermody is a freelance writer and a Featured Contributor for Travel. She has traveled to nearly all 50 states and many countries worldwide and has a passion for imparting what she has learned from her experiences to others.
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