Fort Steele Steam Railway

At the heart of Fort Steele Heritage Town, a provincial historic site in the East Kootenay region of British Columbia, the Fort Steele Steam Railway (also known as the East Kootenay Railway Company) offers visitors the chance to ride behind a genuine steam locomotive through the beautiful Kootenay landscape. The railway operates on standard gauge track within the heritage townsite, which recreates the bustling 1890s gold rush community that sprang up at the confluence of the Kootenay and St. Mary’s Rivers. Among the remarkable locomotive collection are a three-truck Shay geared steam locomotive and a 1923 Montreal Locomotive Works 2-6-2 Prairie type steam engine. The steam railway is one of the many authentic living history experiences at Fort Steele, which features over 60 restored and reconstructed heritage buildings, costumed interpreters, working tradespeople, and period performances. Visitors can experience the drama of the Victorian gold rush era, explore the town’s streets, and ride the steam train for a complete immersion in British Columbia’s frontier past. Fort Steele Heritage Town is one of BC’s most comprehensive and authentic heritage sites and the steam railway is a highlight of any visit.