Roaring Camp Railroads

Roaring Camp Railroads operates two historic narrow-gauge steam train lines through the spectacular redwood forests and coastline of Santa Cruz County, California, offering a rare opportunity to ride genuine steam-powered trains through some of the world’s tallest trees. The Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad, established in 1963, climbs steeply through ancient coastal redwood groves on the steepest passenger-carrying narrow gauge railroad in North America, operating 1880s-era Shay locomotives that grip the rails with a gear-driven system specially designed for mountain climbing. The Bear Mountain Summit Excursion climbs to 2,800-foot Bear Mountain for sweeping views of Monterey Bay. The second line, the Santa Cruz Beach Train, operates over the historic 1875 South Pacific Coast Railroad route, carrying passengers from Roaring Camp down to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk through the spectacular San Lorenzo River Gorge. Themed events include Civil War reenactments, harvest festivals, and holiday trains. The redwood grove setting and authentic Shay locomotives make Roaring Camp one of the most atmospheric and visually striking heritage railroads in the western United States.