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Roaring Camp Railroads: A Ride Through History

Ride historic steam trains through majestic redwood forests at Roaring Camp Railroads, a unique California experience.

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Experience the romance of steam railroading at Roaring Camp, a living history attraction nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Ride vintage steam trains through redwood forests and relive California's pioneering past.

A brief summary to Roaring Camp

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to explore the grounds and enjoy the recreated 1880s logging camp before your train ride.
  • Consider the open-air train cars for an immersive experience, but bring earplugs for sensitive ears.
  • Combine your visit with a hike in the adjacent Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
  • Check the schedule for themed train rides and special events throughout the year.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Santa Cruz, take the Santa Cruz Metro Route 35 bus towards Felton. The bus runs hourly and the ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the Graham Hill Rd & Hwy 9 stop, which is a 14-minute walk to Roaring Camp. A single ride costs $2-$7.

  • Driving

    From Santa Cruz, head north on Highway 9 towards Felton. Follow Highway 9 to Graham Hill Road. Turn left onto Graham Hill Road, and Roaring Camp will be on your left. Parking at Roaring Camp costs $10 per vehicle. Alternatively, you can park for free at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park next door and walk to Roaring Camp.

Unlock the Best of Roaring Camp

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Discover more about Roaring Camp

Roaring Camp Railroads, established in 1963, offers a unique journey through time and nature. Located in Felton, California, it provides visitors with an immersive experience of steam railroading amidst the towering redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The name "Roaring Camp" originates from the area's colorful past, when it was named by Mexican authorities in the 1840s due to the boisterous nature of Isaac Graham's settlement. Graham, a mountain man, established the first water-powered sawmill west of the Mississippi in 1842. The heart of Roaring Camp lies in its collection of meticulously preserved steam locomotives, some dating back to the 1890s. These narrow-gauge engines, some of the oldest still in operation, take passengers on scenic rides through the redwood forests to the summit of Bear Mountain. Conductors share stories of the region's history, railroading, and the natural wonders of the redwood forest. Besides the Redwood Forest Steam Train, Roaring Camp also offers the Santa Cruz Beach Train, which travels to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Beyond the train rides, Roaring Camp recreates an 1880s logging camp, complete with a covered bridge, general store, blacksmith demonstrations, and candle making. Visitors can explore the grounds, pan for gold, and enjoy the atmosphere of a bygone era. Roaring Camp is adjacent to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, allowing visitors to combine their train experience with a walk among ancient redwoods.

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