Climb aboard Steam Locomotive #16 for an intimate, one-hour ride through Pennsylvania’s scenic Aughwick Valley. Experience the power, history, and skill behind this living piece of America’s steam railroad heritage.
Climb aboard Steam Locomotive #16 for an intimate, one-hour ride through Pennsylvania’s scenic Aughwick Valley. Experience the power, history, and skill behind this living piece of America’s steam railroad heritage.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by East Broad Top · Rockhill, Pennsylvania
challenging.
1 hour.
Good physical condition required; must be able to climb steep ladders, maintain balance, and stand or sit for an extended period without assistance.
Yes, all locomotive riders must be at least 18 years old due to safety and liability reasons.
No, participants must be able to climb steep ladders and stand or sit unassisted; the experience is not ADA accessible.
Closed-toed shoes and full-length pants are required; guests must also bring or purchase safety glasses.
Photography and videography are not permitted onboard to ensure safety and avoid distracting the crew.
Rides operate rain, snow, or shine, so guests should be prepared for all weather; there are no refunds for cancellations due to weather.
One or two riders at a time can be accommodated on the jump seat, depending on arrangements made with the railroad in advance.
Established in 1873, the East Broad Top Railroad is one of the most complete narrow-gauge railroads preserved in the United States, still operating its steam locomotives.
The East Broad Top Railroad Foundation focuses on preserving historic equipment and minimizing environmental impact by maintaining original infrastructure with sustainable practices.
East Broad Top is a fully restored narrow-gauge railroad based in Rockhill, Pennsylvania, preserving one of the nation's most complete 3-foot gauge rail systems. The railroad operates historic steam locomotives, gasoline-electric motorcars, and vintage equipment to offer public excursions, special events, and behind-the-scenes tours. Guests can choose from scenic steam train rides, trolley rides in partnership with the Rockhill Trolley Museum, seasonal celebrations, and exclusive guided tours led by skilled staff. Historic attractions include one-hour steam train excursions, the M-3 and M-1 gasoline motorcar journeys, and specialty experiences such as the Master Mechanic's Tour and Archivist's Tour. The Master Mechanic's Tour grants visitors access to the roundhouse and rare narrow-gauge steam locomotives, while the Archivist's Tour offers a view of preserved documents and artifacts at Orbisonia Station. The property also hosts the Central Pennsylvania Ragtime & American Music Festival and seasonal events like Christmas in Coal Country. Ticketed options include general admission train and trolley combinations, boxed lunches for pickup, and festival all-access passes. Seating on several motorcar excursions is limited, and many experiences provide insider access to restoration facilities and historic collections. Interpretive staff, preservation-focused programming, and the railroad's tangible archive materials support the site's educational value. East Broad Top's commitment to restoration, public programming, and collaboration with local museums makes it a trusted destination for visitors seeking authentic narrow-gauge railroad history. Visitors can explore restoration workshops, observe ongoing repairs, and learn from volunteers and staff who maintain the historic equipment and archives through scheduled programs and seasonal demonstrations.
Book with East Broad Top