Scenic Beach Train to Santa Cruz from Roaring Camp
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.
Overview
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.
Beach Train | Roaring Camp to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Round Trip Ticket • 1 or 5 hour layover at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk!
Select Your Date & Time
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating seven-mile train journey from Roaring Camp through stunning redwood forests to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Experience the charm of a historic logging town and enjoy up to five hours of beachside fun before returning. This family-friendly adventure combines history, nature, and seaside excitement!
#Felton to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Train
One ticket is good for both your trip there and back.
All aboard! Join us for a historic, seven-mile train ride through the beautiful redwood forests of the Santa Cruz mountains. Your journey starts at the town of Roaring Camp, a recreated 1880's logging town where you'll find everything from gold-panning to a Town Marshal.
From here, you'll board the train and start winding down the hill towards the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you'll have one hour up to five hours to enjoy the beach, wharf and boardwalk before the train departs back for Felton.
Rates (before fees)
- Adult (Ages 13 and up) - $41.95
- Child (Ages 2-12) - $27.95
Infants under 2 are welcome to ride for free!
Duration
- 3 hours or 7 hour all day stay at the beach
Itinerary
Depart: Felton - 10:00am
- Arrive: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 11:00am
- One Hour Layover at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Depart: Santa Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 12:00pm
- Arrive: Felton - 1:00pm
or
- Five-Hour Layover at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Depart: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 4:00pm
- Arrive: Felton - 5:00pm
Depart: Felton - 2:00pm
- Arrive: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 3:00pm
- One Hour Layover at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Depart: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 4:00pm
- Arrive: Felton - 5:00pm
Please note: Your round-trip ticket is valid only for the times booked with your reservation. Please plan accordingly.
About
Departing from the Santa Cruz Mountains, travel through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, down the scenic San Lorenzo River Gorge, across a 1909 steel truss bridge and through an 1875 tunnel before arriving at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
When this route opened in 1875 it carried lumber as well as picnickers and tourists to the Big Trees and Santa Cruz. Today, The Santa Cruz Big Trees & Pacific Railway operates passenger and freight services on one of the oldest and most historic lines in California. A family-friendly event, you'll experience all the best of Santa Cruz with this iconic, round-trip train ride!
What to Bring
- Light jacket
Adventure Tips
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.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black-tailed deer often seen along the tracks
- Northern spotted owls in the dense redwood canopy
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.
Select participants and date
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
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 specific
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.