Adventure Brief
Step aboard Santa Cruz’s Holiday Lights Train 1st Class Coach Cars for a Victorian Christmas experience filled with festive décor, scenic coastal views, and a complimentary boardwalk games card. Discover why this magical holiday ride is a seasonal must-do!
1 hour
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Trip Details from the Operator
Key Highlights
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families and seniors.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seagulls often circle near the shoreline during the ride.
- Occasional sightings of sea lions resting along the pier.
About Roaring Camp Railroads
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.
Book a Redwoods Train Experience Today
Reserve tickets for scenic steam train rides, family festivals, or themed dinner trains and secure a memorable day in Felton’s redwood forest.
Adventure Tips
Book Early for Holiday Dates
The Holiday Lights Train is popular in December, so secure your seats early to avoid missing out.
essential
Bring Warm Clothing
Even in Southern California, coastal evenings can be chilly; dress in layers to stay comfortable during the ride.
info
Check ADA Accessibility
If you require wheelchair access or assistance, contact the operator ahead to ensure accommodations are met.
essential
Use MyBoardwalk Card Soon
Maximize your $10 MyBoardwalk Card by using it on rides and games during the same visit to get the best value.