Roaring Camp Railroads
Roaring Camp Railroads
4.5
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
About
See California’s towering redwood trees from two historic railroads. Ride steam trains to Bear Mountain or Beach Trains to Santa Cruz. Visit an 1880s logging town located in the Santa Cruz Mountains of California. Between San Francisco and Monterey Bay in Felton.
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- Tim B19 contributionsStill awesome 42 years later!I first went here in 1980 whenI was 3, and apparently I told my parents it was my "favourite place on earth". 42 years later it is stil the same magical place. It is very well done, and the steam trains are 125 years old and still going strong. They are lovingly looked after by a dedicated team. I don't mind paying $39.95 when you think how much it must cost to run and maintain these trains, railroad line, and huge site. It's a great conservation area and important American heritage site that has been going strong since the 1950s. It's very popular and both trains were sold out on a Friday in May, but it didn't feel crowded. It's a good length train ride through amazing scenery, and you can get off for 10 minutes or so at the top to enjoy the tranquility and redwood forest. The trestle bridge is amazing and the photos and vidoes you get along the way are amazing. It's the steepest railroad in North America and the skill of the engineers is impressive - it takes real skill and experience to run these trains on this line, it must take years to learn how to do it so well. It's no small thing to get a steam train up and running every day that dates from 1895! Clearly the staff take great pride in what they do. I'm so glad it hasn't changed since I was there as a kid - it was great then and it's still just as great today. I'm glad to have supported such a wonderful place over the years. Keep up the great work and don't ever change!Visited May 2022Written May 23, 2022
- Mark Clay MBakersfield, California44 contributionsRoaring Camp Railroad is a roaring good time!We went here at the suggestion of an acquaintance and we weren't let down. We did the logging steam train as the Beach train was off season. The trains, the ride, the staff and train crews, the whole experience was great and, at $33 per person, was easily affordable. We learned a lot about the history of the forest, trains and area in general and met some very nice people. We went in mid October and the weather was great and it wasn't crowded. I highly recommend this excursion as a destination or if you're just in the Santa Cruz area.Visited October 2021Traveled as a coupleWritten October 23, 2021
- Lena KFullerton, California2,290 contributionsSteam Train Rude through the RedwoodsRoaring Camp is a Western Town with not only the train depot, but also a General Store, George's Cookhouse, Blacksmith shop and small schoolhouse. Entrance is through a wooden covered bridge. There are ponds with ducks and trees all around. One must order train tickets online and exchange printout at the train depot for tickets which the conductor will pick up on the train. The conductor also narrates the history of the redwood forest and the steam train during the one and a half hour long train ride through the old growth redwoods. The whole family would enjoy this adventure.Visited July 2021Traveled with friendsWritten July 17, 2021
- HkbrownSanta Cruz, California20 contributionsAnniversary rideWe loved the only car without the top. Choose the left side for seating. The open air car gave us the ability to see the very tops of the tree canopy overhead. Bench seating. The train goes slow enough so we didn’t feel motion sick - others may not like it for the very reason we did. Slow was great for us. LOVED the conductor John! Great knowledge. Great personality. On our ride he used the mike from our car so we enjoyed his visuals. We would take this ride again. Mid October was strong sun and hot at the 12:30 ride but perfect temps when we started in the redwoods full of shadeVisited October 2020Traveled as a coupleWritten October 16, 2020
- Sally WHollywood, Florida21 contributionsFun for Everyone!My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience! We attended the 1:30 Sunday afternoon ride and wish that we'd allowed more time to experience the other activites at the camp prior to the train ride up the mountain and through the Redwood Forest. Please allow yourselves plenty of driving time even if you live or are vacationing nearby. The weekend traffic is congested. Our navigation system re-routed us through a very steep and curvy road! I'd also recommend choosing a spot on the train closer to the conductor (last car on the train) so that you're able to hear the witty and informative narration. Bottom Line: Take the train ride! PS There's also a train from this location that travels to Santa Cruz Boardwalk!Visited September 2022Written September 11, 2022
- Luckydog12341378Silver Spring, Maryland41 contributionsRedwoods train tripWell done tour into the redwoods. The train was fun and COVID safe. The highlight is the conductor Charles who gave an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and humorous talk as we traveled up and back. A highlight to our 2 week CA trip Great for all ages, easy parkingVisited November 2021Traveled as a coupleWritten November 14, 2021
- Linda WLos Angeles, California86 contributionsLove the train ride and enjoy the forest scenery.We took the train into the forest and enjoyed the train ride. The train will stop in the forest about 5-10 min for passengers to see the redwoods and take some photos. Our train ride was at noon time and we arrived at 10:30am, so we had enough time to explore the area and do a short hike at “Henry Cowell Redwood State Park” (which is just right next to the train depot). Highly suggest to arrive earlier or stay a bit longer since you are already in the area. The hike at the redwood park is absolutely worth it. When you buy the train tickets online, you are required to buy the parking together. Suggest to park at “Roaring Camp” and walk over to “Henry Cowell Redwood State Park” (which is about 3 min walk from train depot.) if you park at “Henry Cowell State Park”, you will need to pay a separate parking fee. Also, don’t forget to get your physical train ticket at the ticket window when you arrive at the train depot. The train conductor does check the ticket during the ride.Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten July 22, 2023
- Kenzie J1 contributionNot Worth ItMy partner and I did the Moonlight Railroad Dinner Party last night and we were so incredibly disappointed by the entire experience. My partner and I are on our engagement vacation and we splurged on this experience thinking it would be a romantic event worth the money. Unfortunately, I feel that I must ask for my money back because of our frustration and disappointment. Overall, we are so sad that we wasted our Saturday night on this completely overhyped and underwhelming experience. Firstly, upon arrival, the man at the parking booth didn’t even check our reservation, and $10 for parking that’s almost 1/2 a mile away?? The “hearty dinner” was everything but. It was cold, over/under cooked, and my vegetarian option was one single mushroom cap? For $60?? Absolutely ridiculous. The train was not as expected at all. It was more like a cart and we were packed in so tight. Nobody checked our tickets the entire night, leading me to believe that there were people on the train without reservations. The email said to go to the will-call, but nobody was there and the office was closed by 7:30pm. There were no employees or signs anywhere directing us or telling us what to do. It was so disorganized. The train ride was long and slow, and we couldn’t hear the conductor with the mic at all. Everyone around us was so confused. When we got up to Bear Mountain, I couldn’t believe the promised “campfire” was a tiny propane stove backyard fire pit. There was also no hot cocoa as promised, only cold cider. And once again, no signs or any employees directing us or telling anyone what was happening. It’s like we were in the dark the entire time, literally and figuratively. The train ride back down felt like torture. So long and boring again. I just can’t believe you’re charging as much as you are for this. The definition of a tourist trap. Do not waste your time and money!!Visited July 2022Traveled as a coupleWritten July 10, 2022
- Bruce FWalnut Creek, California6 contributionsUnique and memorable experienceOur family recently rode the steam train up Bear Mountain on the Roaring Camp Railroad. There are few actual operating vintage steam engines in regular use and this one was a fine example. The trip takes a little over an hour with a brief stop at the top of the mountain, traversing steep grades through the magnificent redwoods. A conductor narrates the trip providing a variety of interesting information about the redwoods, the engine and railroading in general, giving a valuable context for everything one experiences. He was very good a his job and added significantly to the trip. This was a rare opportunity for a unique experience enhanced by the crew and staff, all of whom were very accomplished at his or her job. There is a cluster of buildings at the station which sell food, souvenirs and the like. There are also picnic tables and ample restroom facilities. Masks are currently in general use and the cars are open air, adding to the general comfort level. Age range of passengers ran the gamut.Visited August 2021Written August 7, 2021
- David HTracy, California225 contributionsGreat day for the family with young kidsWe took the family for a little day trip out to Roaring Camp and it was well worth it. My youngest is 3, and the oldest is nearly 8. Right off the bat the kids were very excited to see the train, hear the whistle, and of course ride it. Once the train got rolling the kids were over the moon, and going through the woods was a nice respite from the heat. It had been quite a few years since I had last been to Roaring Camp, but it’s just as good as I remember and I really enjoyed seeing the excitement on my kids faces as they experienced it. Well worth the visit, the little town along the rail line is good, and its perfect for a day out.Visited July 2022Traveled with familyWritten July 30, 2022
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
743 reviews
Excellent
445
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54
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24
Hkbrown
Santa Cruz, CA20 contributions
Oct 2020 • Couples
We loved the only car without the top. Choose the left side for seating. The open air car gave us the ability to see the very tops of the tree canopy overhead. Bench seating. The train goes slow enough so we didn’t feel motion sick - others may not like it for the very reason we did. Slow was great for us. LOVED the conductor John! Great knowledge. Great personality. On our ride he used the mike from our car so we enjoyed his visuals. We would take this ride again. Mid October was strong sun and hot at the 12:30 ride but perfect temps when we started in the redwoods full of shade
Written October 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sally W
Hollywood, FL21 contributions
Sep 2022
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience! We attended the 1:30 Sunday afternoon ride and wish that we'd allowed more time to experience the other activites at the camp prior to the train ride up the mountain and through the Redwood Forest. Please allow yourselves plenty of driving time even if you live or are vacationing nearby. The weekend traffic is congested. Our navigation system re-routed us through a very steep and curvy road! I'd also recommend choosing a spot on the train closer to the conductor (last car on the train) so that you're able to hear the witty and informative narration. Bottom Line: Take the train ride! PS There's also a train from this location that travels to Santa Cruz Boardwalk!
Written September 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Luckydog12341378
Silver Spring, MD41 contributions
Nov 2021 • Couples
Well done tour into the redwoods. The train was fun and COVID safe. The highlight is the conductor Charles who gave an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and humorous talk as we traveled up and back. A highlight to our 2 week CA trip
Great for all ages, easy parking
Great for all ages, easy parking
Written November 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda W
Los Angeles, CA86 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
We took the train into the forest and enjoyed the train ride. The train will stop in the forest about 5-10 min for passengers to see the redwoods and take some photos. Our train ride was at noon time and we arrived at 10:30am, so we had enough time to explore the area and do a short hike at “Henry Cowell Redwood State Park” (which is just right next to the train depot). Highly suggest to arrive earlier or stay a bit longer since you are already in the area. The hike at the redwood park is absolutely worth it.
When you buy the train tickets online, you are required to buy the parking together. Suggest to park at “Roaring Camp” and walk over to “Henry Cowell Redwood State Park” (which is about 3 min walk from train depot.) if you park at “Henry Cowell State Park”, you will need to pay a separate parking fee. Also, don’t forget to get your physical train ticket at the ticket window when you arrive at the train depot. The train conductor does check the ticket during the ride.
When you buy the train tickets online, you are required to buy the parking together. Suggest to park at “Roaring Camp” and walk over to “Henry Cowell Redwood State Park” (which is about 3 min walk from train depot.) if you park at “Henry Cowell State Park”, you will need to pay a separate parking fee. Also, don’t forget to get your physical train ticket at the ticket window when you arrive at the train depot. The train conductor does check the ticket during the ride.
Written July 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kenzie J
1 contribution
Jul 2022 • Couples
My partner and I did the Moonlight Railroad Dinner Party last night and we were so incredibly disappointed by the entire experience. My partner and I are on our engagement vacation and we splurged on this experience thinking it would be a romantic event worth the money. Unfortunately, I feel that I must ask for my money back because of our frustration and disappointment. Overall, we are so sad that we wasted our Saturday night on this completely overhyped and underwhelming experience.
Firstly, upon arrival, the man at the parking booth didn’t even check our reservation, and $10 for parking that’s almost 1/2 a mile away?? The “hearty dinner” was everything but. It was cold, over/under cooked, and my vegetarian option was one single mushroom cap? For $60?? Absolutely ridiculous. The train was not as expected at all. It was more like a cart and we were packed in so tight. Nobody checked our tickets the entire night, leading me to believe that there were people on the train without reservations. The email said to go to the will-call, but nobody was there and the office was closed by 7:30pm. There were no employees or signs anywhere directing us or telling us what to do. It was so disorganized.
The train ride was long and slow, and we couldn’t hear the conductor with the mic at all. Everyone around us was so confused. When we got up to Bear Mountain, I couldn’t believe the promised “campfire” was a tiny propane stove backyard fire pit. There was also no hot cocoa as promised, only cold cider. And once again, no signs or any employees directing us or telling anyone what was happening. It’s like we were in the dark the entire time, literally and figuratively. The train ride back down felt like torture. So long and boring again.
I just can’t believe you’re charging as much as you are for this. The definition of a tourist trap. Do not waste your time and money!!
Firstly, upon arrival, the man at the parking booth didn’t even check our reservation, and $10 for parking that’s almost 1/2 a mile away?? The “hearty dinner” was everything but. It was cold, over/under cooked, and my vegetarian option was one single mushroom cap? For $60?? Absolutely ridiculous. The train was not as expected at all. It was more like a cart and we were packed in so tight. Nobody checked our tickets the entire night, leading me to believe that there were people on the train without reservations. The email said to go to the will-call, but nobody was there and the office was closed by 7:30pm. There were no employees or signs anywhere directing us or telling us what to do. It was so disorganized.
The train ride was long and slow, and we couldn’t hear the conductor with the mic at all. Everyone around us was so confused. When we got up to Bear Mountain, I couldn’t believe the promised “campfire” was a tiny propane stove backyard fire pit. There was also no hot cocoa as promised, only cold cider. And once again, no signs or any employees directing us or telling anyone what was happening. It’s like we were in the dark the entire time, literally and figuratively. The train ride back down felt like torture. So long and boring again.
I just can’t believe you’re charging as much as you are for this. The definition of a tourist trap. Do not waste your time and money!!
Written July 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bruce F
Walnut Creek, CA6 contributions
Aug 2021
Our family recently rode the steam train up Bear Mountain on the Roaring Camp Railroad. There are few actual operating vintage steam engines in regular use and this one was a fine example. The trip takes a little over an hour with a brief stop at the top of the mountain, traversing steep grades through the magnificent redwoods. A conductor narrates the trip providing a variety of interesting information about the redwoods, the engine and railroading in general, giving a valuable context for everything one experiences. He was very good a his job and added significantly to the trip. This was a rare opportunity for a unique experience enhanced by the crew and staff, all of whom were very accomplished at his or her job. There is a cluster of buildings at the station which sell food, souvenirs and the like. There are also picnic tables and ample restroom facilities. Masks are currently in general use and the cars are open air, adding to the general comfort level. Age range of passengers ran the gamut.
Written August 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David H
Tracy, CA225 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
We took the family for a little day trip out to Roaring Camp and it was well worth it. My youngest is 3, and the oldest is nearly 8.
Right off the bat the kids were very excited to see the train, hear the whistle, and of course ride it. Once the train got rolling the kids were over the moon, and going through the woods was a nice respite from the heat.
It had been quite a few years since I had last been to Roaring Camp, but it’s just as good as I remember and I really enjoyed seeing the excitement on my kids faces as they experienced it.
Well worth the visit, the little town along the rail line is good, and its perfect for a day out.
Right off the bat the kids were very excited to see the train, hear the whistle, and of course ride it. Once the train got rolling the kids were over the moon, and going through the woods was a nice respite from the heat.
It had been quite a few years since I had last been to Roaring Camp, but it’s just as good as I remember and I really enjoyed seeing the excitement on my kids faces as they experienced it.
Well worth the visit, the little town along the rail line is good, and its perfect for a day out.
Written July 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kimberly W
Los Gatos, CA2 contributions
Aug 2022
We are retired but really enjoyed this train ride. The conductor (didn’t catch his name) had us laughing with his wit and jokes. We planned on spending the day and leaving on the 4 pm ride but even though it’s a dog friendly train, keep in mind Santa Cruz is NOT. No dogs on boardwalk, main beach, or wharf . Even Las Palmas taco bar was closed and this was a Sunday! Returned on the noon train but the ride made up for the dog inconveniences. Will do it again on a sunny day and no Fido.
Written August 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kwilk
Walnut Creek, CA26 contributions
Jun 2022
This was an excellent activity for locals and visitors! We were a group of both and all loved the train ride into the mountains and amazing trees. The conductor was super informative and also hilarious, and the trees are incredibly beautiful and majestic. So worthwhile. We did the train ride at noon (it’s 90 mins) and then went to the beach boardwalk for the afternoon. Perfect Santa Cruz day!
Written June 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RichH6109
Yorkshire75 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
My family and I visited Roaring Camp at the end of July 2022.
Our primary reason for visiting was to enjoy the 75 minute train ride through the redwoods. This was fun but expensive - there isn’t a great deal to do or see and the five minute stop at Bear Mountain is hardly sufficient to explore further.
The rest of the location is fun. My kids enjoyed panning for gold and staff were great (particularly Steve). Recommended.
Our primary reason for visiting was to enjoy the 75 minute train ride through the redwoods. This was fun but expensive - there isn’t a great deal to do or see and the five minute stop at Bear Mountain is hardly sufficient to explore further.
The rest of the location is fun. My kids enjoyed panning for gold and staff were great (particularly Steve). Recommended.
Written August 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
oceans192018
Peoria, IL1 contribution
Does the Redwoods Forrest 75 minute train ride have a restroom? looks like all open log cars?
Billy_WizzKent
North West England, UK134 contributions
Toilets at the top of the hill, in the summer all cars were open
We want to take the Santa Cruz boardwalk train and what to bring some beach gear and snacks and drinks with us. Can you bring large coolers onto the train?
Gary W
1 contribution
Is the Roaring Camp railroad open right now during Covid? If so, what times?
Francisco A
Santa Cruz, CA
Google Roaring Camp for website link to hours
Mike and Amy S
Knightdale, NC72 contributions
We are planning our day for the steam train ride and the tickets say 12:30-2. Is that pretty accurate? Is the train back by 2:00 generally?
Lin H
62 contributions
We have done the trip on two different occasions and both times the train times have been accurate. It is however in a lovely location with things to see and do in the area that the train starts and finishes and if your schedule allows it is worthwhile trying to allow a little extra time to have a look around. Hope this helps 🙂
I need address plrase
Duffyruns
Parker, CO77 contributions
5401 Graham Hill Rd
Felton, CA 95018
pfbmm
California Desert, CA1 contribution
Can you buy food at the Felton station area after arriving from Santa Cruz?
Pete L
6 contributions
See other responses-bring a picnic lunch to save money! There are a number of wonderful markets and farmers markets surrounding the stop where you will board. With a little planning you can end up with locally grown treats that will enhance your experience.
how to get to Roaring Camp Railroads by public transport?
Will S
121 contributions
hi -I am not sure that the bus stops there every day- Metro Santa cruz would know this stuff.
Jill W
Seattle, WA91 contributions
Can you take a Lyft from Santa Cruz to roaring Camp Railroads. We are staying in Santa Cruz and won’t have a car.
skyedalmt
14 contributions
I would suggest catching the train in Santa Cruz to Roaring Camp and then taking the train back. However, I guess it all depends on the number of people in your group. If you take the train, you won't regret it. My son loved it.
Ap
101 contributions
Can you bring food and eat during the train ride?
indymel2018
Brownsburg, IN5 contributions
I would not recommend it. It is a bumpy ride and a lil crowded. It really just a time to appreciate the amazing beauty of the forest and take it all in. Eating would distract from that and might disrupt the other guests. There is a campground and nice areas to eat before or after the ride. Enjoy!
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Claim your listingRoaring Camp Railroads (Santa Cruz) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Roaring Camp Railroads
- Roaring Camp Railroads is open:
- Sun - Sat 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Hotels near Roaring Camp Railroads:
- (0.50 mi) Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort
- (0.49 mi) Charming & colorful cabin with a furnished deck & forest views - dog-friendly
- (0.58 mi) Fern River Resort Motel
- (0.56 mi) Smithwoods RV Park
- (0.63 mi) Mount Hermon Christian Camps & Conference Center
- Restaurants near Roaring Camp Railroads:
- (0.77 mi) Cowboy Bar and Grill
- (4.64 mi) Marianne's Ice Cream
- (5.87 mi) Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
- (5.84 mi) Linda's Seabreeze Cafe
- (4.99 mi) Laili Restaurant
Roaring Camp Railroads Information
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