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Experience the Magic of the Polar Express Train Ride in Hood River, Oregon - Hood River

Experience the Magic of the Polar Express Train Ride in Hood River, Oregon

Hood Rivereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness level required; suitable for all ages and abilities

Overview

Step into a holiday classic on the Polar Express Train in Hood River, Oregon. This 1.5-hour scenic ride blends festive storytelling with stunning Columbia River Gorge views, creating a memorable winter adventure for families and visitors.

Events
Train
Hood River, Oregon

Polar Express Train

Tickets Avail Sept 2

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About This Adventure

Embark on a magical train journey to the North Pole, running from late November to early January! Experience the warmth of the holiday season with cheerful staff, festive music, and delicious hot cocoa and cookies. Enjoy cozy seating options and create unforgettable family memories aboard the Mt. Hood Railroad.

An interactive trip to the North Pole!

Runs LATE NOV to EARLY JAN

Tickets on Sale Now!!  

CALLOUT: All Tickets are sold by the seat, so if you want an entire table, you will need 4 tickets

Please Note

  • Infant in arms available for ages 2 and under.
  • Child ages 2-12 in their own seat.

About

This train experience will capture the spirit of the season with its warmth and charm. Your family will love it!

Feel holiday magic in the air the moment you arrive! You’ll be greeted by our cheery staff and directed to gather your ticket before the conductor calls “All aboard!""

The music begins as we depart the station and you will instantly be wrapped in the Christmas Spirit!

We are excited to welcome everyone aboard to enjoy this joyful experience and continue the holiday tradition of Mt. Hood Railroad! Ho Ho Ho!

Duration

Approx 1 Hour & 30 Minutes

Arrival Time

Before the train departs, there is a welcoming introduction in the depot, so we advise arriving AT LEAST 45 minutes before departure to allow ample time for parking and making your way into the depot for the pre-boarding entertainment.

Parking

We strongly encourage you to pre-pay for parking when making a reservation; this will save you time and make everything easier when arriving. If the parking lot is full, then an overflow auxiliary lot will be available with a shuttle for the same price.

Food & Beverages

All guests are served hot cocoa and a cookie.

Ticket Types: Prices are based on 3 tiers depending on the day:

Peak = High Demand Days Regular = Normal Price Days Value = Best Savings Days

Seating

All Seats are Individually Sold and are assigned by Mt. Hood Railroad according to your ticket type. Food is available for pre-purchase for all customer types.

  • VIP passengers will ride in a comfortable booth with a table (seats 4) and receive a complimentary snack and beverage, as well as souvenir Polar Express mug.
  • Premium relaxes in cozy bucket seats in groups, but there is no table (groups of 4). Premium receives a keepsake Polar Express tumbler.
  • Parlor enjoys chairs and a table (seats 4).
  • Standard has a booth with bench seating, but there is no table.

Note: VIP and Parlor have a table that seats 4, so if your group has fewer than 4 tickets, you might be seated with someone else to fill the table. If you want to ensure you don't share a table, please make sure the number of tickets equals a multiple of 4.

If you would like to be seated with another group, please book everyone under one reservation -- or put the first & last name of the group you want to sit with in the comment section when booking.

Wheelchairs

Parlor seating is the only option that can accommodate wheelchairs, so please select that option for pricing. Keep in mind, since this is a historical train, the width of the door is 30 inches. We have a lift, but unfortunately, we are unable to load or store electric wheelchairs. Also, wheelchairs will not fit through the bathroom doors, so please keep that in mind.

Assistance with Boarding

If anyone in your party needs a lift to board the train (such as use of walkers), please let us know in the comments when booking your reservation, so we can plan accordingly.

Pets

No Pets are allowed for health & safety reasons. Please don't put our staff in the uncomfortable situation of having to issue a $100 violation or refuse to let you board the train again after the layover in Pine Grove. It diminishes enjoyment for all involved.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Peak Days

Tickets sell quickly during the holiday season; reserve your seats at least a month in advance to secure your preferred seating tier.

Arrive Early for Pre-Boarding Fun

Get to the depot 45–60 minutes before departure to enjoy holiday shopping, photos, and entertainment without rushing.

Choose Parlor Seating for Accessibility

Parlor cars accommodate wheelchairs and offer table seating—select this option if accessibility is a priority.

No Pets Allowed

To maintain safety and comfort, pets are prohibited onboard; please leave furry friends at home.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles soaring along the Columbia River
  • Grey squirrels in the surrounding forested areas

History

Mt. Hood Railroad has been serving the Columbia River Gorge region since 1906, preserving a century of rail heritage that enriches this seasonal experience.

Conservation

The railroad and local organizers emphasize minimizing environmental impact by encouraging carpooling and offering shuttle parking during peak holiday events.

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Adventure Hotspots in Hood River

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm, Festive Clothing

Essential

Dress in cozy layers or holiday-themed attire to stay comfortable and celebrate the season.

winter specific

Camera or Smartphone

Essential

Capture the magical moments and scenic views throughout the ride.

Hand Sanitizer

Essential

Keep hands clean during the ride for health and hygiene, especially around food and shared spaces.

Cash or Card for Vendor Purchases

Bring payment options to enjoy on-site coffee and holiday treats from vendor carts.

winter specific