Take a scenic seven-mile train ride through redwoods to the lively Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy history, stunning nature, and up to five hours of seaside fun on this family-friendly adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated during the train ride with optional moderate walking at the boardwalk.
Wildlife
History
Roaring Camp Railroads started as a logging railroad in the 19th century and has preserved historic steam engines for authentic train experiences.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to protect the surrounding redwood forest ecosystem by minimizing train emissions and supporting local habitat restoration projects.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Take a scenic seven-mile train ride through redwoods to the lively Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy history, stunning nature, and up to five hours of seaside fun on this family-friendly adventure.
Roaring Camp Railroads, located in Felton, California, operates scenic train excursions and a year-round calendar of themed events set in the towering Santa Cruz redwood forest. The operation offers a variety of experiences for families, school groups, and adult visitors, combining vintage train travel with live entertainment, food, and hands-on programming.
Key offerings include heritage steam train rides, family-focused events like Day Out With Thomas featuring Thomas the Tank Engine™, seasonal festivals such as the Brewgrass Festival, and specialty evenings like the Moonlight Evening Dinner Train that include dinner, live music, and stopovers at Bear Mountain. Roaring Camp also hosts community-oriented events at the historic Bret Harte Opera Hall, including the Spring Barn Line Dance and Winter Warmer Fest.
Educational programs are available for school groups aged 7–11 through the Living History experience, designed to bring the mountain man era and westward expansion to life. Seasonal attractions include Drive-In Movie Nights among the redwoods, a Chanukah Train with community menorah lighting and kosher refreshments, and competitive culinary events such as the Cook-Off with tastings and craft beer.
Visitors traveling from Santa Cruz can join specialty trains like the Father’s Day Brew Train and VIP tasting trains for Brewgrass. The combination of scenic rail routes, themed programming, and family-friendly activities makes Roaring Camp Railroads a notable destination for both residents and tourists seeking historic rail experiences and community events in Felton, CA.
Location
Felton, CA
Situated in the Santa Cruz redwood forest
Tours Offered
10 Experiences
Heritage rides and themed events
Family Events
Multiple
Includes Day Out With Thomas
Signature Rides
Vintage Steam
Moonlight Dinner Train to Bear Mountain
Reserve tickets for scenic steam train rides, family festivals, or themed dinner trains and secure a memorable day in Felton’s redwood forest.
Book tickets in advance
This popular train ride fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Reserve your seats beforehand to guarantee availability.
Bring layers for varying temperatures
The forest can be cool and shaded, while the beach is often sunny and warm. Dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Arrive early for the best seating
Boarding early increases your chances of sitting on the open-air car, which offers the best views and photo opportunities.
Pack snacks and water
Although there are food options at Santa Cruz, bringing water and light snacks ensures you’ll be fueled during the train ride and beach visit.
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust for varied temperatures between the forest and beach.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat help protect against strong sun at the beach.
summer
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for strolls around the boardwalk and short walks in Felton.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the train ride and outdoor activities.