Roaring Camp Railroads
Ride vintage steam trains through majestic redwoods, stepping back in time for a magical journey. Explore history and nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Roaring Camp Railroads
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride vintage steam trains through majestic redwoods, stepping back in time for a magical journey. Explore history and nature.
"This is the best outing you can take from. Just a nice chill area to kids and dogs explore to having some fun on the railway, it’s perfect and very accessible."
🎟️ Book Ahead, Especially Summer
Tickets sell out quickly in peak season. Book online in advance to guarantee your spot!
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Save money and enjoy your own snacks on the train or during layovers. Food options are available but can be pricey.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Steam Train Ride Through Redwoods
Felton, CA
Experience a magical 75-minute journey on a vintage steam engine through ancient redwood forests.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Train
Felton to Santa Cruz
Take a scenic train ride from the redwoods directly to the lively Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Sequoia Lights Installation
Roaring Camp
Explore a luminous art installation after dark, transforming the redwoods into a magical nighttime wonderland.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Accessibility & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ahead, Especially Summer
Tickets sell out quickly in peak season. Book online in advance to guarantee your spot! +1
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Save money and enjoy your own snacks on the train or during layovers. Food options are available but can be pricey. +1
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trains and in the park, making it a great outing for the whole family.
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The grounds and trains are surprisingly accessible, making it a great outing for all mobility levels.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead, Especially Summer
Tickets sell out quickly in peak season. Book online in advance to guarantee your spot! +1
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Save money and enjoy your own snacks on the train or during layovers. Food options are available but can be pricey. +1
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trains and in the park, making it a great outing for the whole family.
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The grounds and trains are surprisingly accessible, making it a great outing for all mobility levels.
🎩 Wear a Hat & Sunscreen
The sun can be strong, especially on the open-air train cars. Protect yourself from the elements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical steam train ride through the redwood forest, often comparing it to a fairytale experience. The accessibility for wheelchairs and the dog-friendly policy are frequently highlighted as major positives. While the scenery and historical aspect are highly praised, some guests noted issues with sound systems on certain rides and found the on-site food to be average.
"I am a wheelchair user and I’m training my own service dog. This was an absolute dream of an outing. I have adult kids and I want to do something that would just be fun and accessible that I could bring the puppy. I cannot tell you how easy it was to navigate the space with my wheelchair or anything that wasn’t easy. Someone ran up to help. The food was really good. This is the best outing you can take from. Just a nice chill area to kids and dogs explore to having some fun on the railway, it’s perfect and very accessible"
Owl & Twine Cottage Core Lifestyle Shop
"Wow! This place offers history and magnificent views in one location. Then there is the steam locomotive ride up the Santa Cruz mountains. The ride is so beautiful and peaceful. There is a walking trail if you don’t want to ride the train. A vast and roomy park so even with a small crowd the venue never seemed crowded. The food options were simple and similar to a concession stand and were average. The stop at the top of the mountain for a restroom break and chance to take pictures and walk around I was a highlight of the visit. Would strongly recommend anyone near the Santa Cruz area to check this place out."
Brandon Hudson
"We took the early train and the Conductor was knowledgeable about the area and gave several facts about the operations of the train.
It was a very enjoyable experience !
We also liked the fact our grandson was able to get his “passport “ stamped and learned about the operations of a historical town.
Definitely worth a visit!"
Denise Morford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Roaring Camp Railroads is located at 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA 95018. You can drive directly to the Felton location. Alternatively, you can catch the train from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and ride it to Roaring Camp. +2
Yes, there is parking available at the Roaring Camp location in Felton. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.
While direct public transport to Roaring Camp is limited, you can take public transport to Santa Cruz and then catch the train from the Beach Boardwalk to Roaring Camp. +1
Boarding in Felton typically offers the classic steam train ride through the redwoods. Boarding at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk allows you to ride to Roaring Camp and explore the historical area before returning.
Yes, Roaring Camp Railroads is located in Felton, which is a short drive from Santa Cruz. You can also take a train directly from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to Roaring Camp. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary depending on the train experience and season. It's best to check the official Roaring Camp Railroads website for current pricing. Reddit users have mentioned costs around $100 for two people for certain routes.
You can purchase tickets online through the official Roaring Camp Railroads website, or at the ticket booth on-site. Booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially for summer and holiday trains. +1
Yes, trains, particularly the popular steam train rides and holiday specials, can sell out, especially during the summer and holiday seasons. Booking in advance is strongly advised. +1
A standard train ticket typically includes the scenic train ride. Some packages or special events may include additional activities or access. The Felton location offers a historical area to explore during layovers.
Information on discounts is best found on the official Roaring Camp Railroads website. Keep an eye out for special promotions or group rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The classic steam train ride through the redwood forest is approximately 75 minutes long. The train ride from Felton to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and back can be longer, around 1.5 to 2 hours total.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the trains and at Roaring Camp, making it a great option for pet owners.
Roaring Camp Railroads is noted for its accessibility. Wheelchair users have reported easy navigation of the grounds and assistance from staff.
In Felton, you can explore the historical village, visit the general store, and enjoy the natural surroundings. There are also walking trails nearby, including access to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
The Sequoia Lights is a special nighttime event featuring a lantern-lit journey through the redwoods, creating a magical art installation experience. It's often described as having a 'twilight vibe'.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food options available, often described as similar to a concession stand. However, many visitors recommend packing your own lunch and snacks to save money and have more variety. +1
Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic basket with food and drinks is a popular and recommended option for visitors. +1
Food options are generally simple, akin to concession stand fare. Reviews suggest it's average, so packing your own is often preferred.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, one Reddit user inquired about bringing wine, suggesting it might be permissible for personal consumption during layovers. It's best to confirm directly with Roaring Camp.
Felton has a few local eateries, and Santa Cruz offers a wide array of dining options, especially near the Beach Boardwalk. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The steam train itself, the massive redwood trees, and the vintage station buildings offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Sequoia Lights at night provide a unique, magical backdrop.
Yes, you can take photos from the train, especially from the open-air cars. Be mindful of other passengers and ensure your camera is secure.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can offer beautiful lighting through the redwoods. The Sequoia Lights event provides unique nighttime photography opportunities.
Any camera, from a smartphone to a DSLR, can capture great shots. Consider a wide-angle lens for the redwoods and a telephoto lens for capturing train details.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks and private properties for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check Roaring Camp's specific drone policy before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, as popular trains sell out quickly.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for weekday visits outside of peak summer or holiday seasons, as these times may have slightly lower crowds and potentially more availability.
❤️ Couples & Date Ideas
+1Consider taking the train from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for a day that combines coastal fun with a historical mountain escape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roaring Camp Experience: More Than Just a Train Ride
+1The journey isn't just about the train; it's about the immersion. The conductors often share historical facts about the railway and the region, adding an educational layer to the scenic tour. The Sequoia Lights installation transforms the forest into a magical wonderland after dark, providing a completely different, ethereal experience.
Beyond the rails, the Felton location offers a charming historical village with a general store and opportunities for gold panning. It's a place where families, train enthusiasts, and nature lovers can all find something to enjoy, making it a well-rounded destination.
+1Navigating Roaring Camp: Practical Tips from Visitors
When it comes to comfort, packing your own lunch and snacks is a common tip, as it's more economical and offers greater variety than the available concession-style food.
Roaring Camp is also praised for its accessibility. Wheelchair users have found the grounds and trains to be very navigable, with helpful staff readily available. Furthermore, the park is dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets to join in on the fun, which is a significant plus for many visitors.
The Roaring Camp & Big Trees Railroad: A Historical Gem
The railroad's primary route takes visitors through the stunning redwood forest, showcasing the immense scale and beauty of these ancient trees. These steam locomotives, like the Dixiana Shay No. 1, were originally designed for logging operations, built for torque to navigate steep grades and rough terrain.
Riding these engines provides a visceral connection to that history, with the rumble of the tracks and the distinctive whistle echoing through the trees. The experience is often described as feeling like you've stepped back into the 1880s. Beyond the main redwood route, Roaring Camp also offers a unique train service connecting Felton to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This route provides a different perspective, linking the mountain scenery with the coastal vibe of Santa Cruz.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit