Hop aboard the Bubble Train in Felton for a magical ride through California’s Redwood Forest filled with bubbles, music, and magic. Perfect for families looking for whimsical outdoor fun!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
20 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels including young children and seniors, as the experience is seated aboard a train.
Wildlife
History
Roaring Camp Railroads has operated vintage steam and diesel trains since 1963, preserving the region’s logging railroad heritage.
Conservation
The railroad and park partners work to protect the ancient redwoods and minimize impact through educational programs and sustainable maintenance.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Hop aboard the Bubble Train in Felton for a magical ride through California’s Redwood Forest filled with bubbles, music, and magic. Perfect for families looking for whimsical outdoor fun!
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.
Arrive Early to Secure Seating
The train rides can fill up quickly, so arriving 30 minutes early helps get the best spots and avoids long waits.
Dress in Layers for Forest Comfort
Felton’s redwood forest can be cool and shaded even in summer, so bring a light jacket or layers.
Protect Electronics from Bubbles
Bubbles can be soapy and leave residue; keep cameras and phones in protective cases or bags during the ride.
Accessibility Considerations
Roaring Camp Railroads offers accessible services, but check ahead for specific accommodations if needed.
Light jacket or hoodie
Keeps you comfortable during cool forest rides.
spring
Water-resistant phone/camera case
Protects your electronics from bubble residue and unexpected moisture.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Ideal for walking around the train station and nearby trails.
Reusable water bottle
Helps keep you hydrated during warmer months and outdoor waiting periods.
summer