easy
1.5 hours
No special fitness level required; suitable for all ages and abilities
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.
Tickets Avail Sept 2
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.
Tickets on Sale Now!!
Please Note
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!
Approx 1 Hour & 30 Minutes
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.
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.
All guests are served hot cocoa and a cookie.
Peak = High Demand Days Regular = Normal Price Days Value = Best Savings Days
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tickets sell quickly during the holiday season; reserve your seats at least a month in advance to secure your preferred seating tier.
Get to the depot 45–60 minutes before departure to enjoy holiday shopping, photos, and entertainment without rushing.
Parlor cars accommodate wheelchairs and offer table seating—select this option if accessibility is a priority.
To maintain safety and comfort, pets are prohibited onboard; please leave furry friends at home.
Mt. Hood Railroad has been serving the Columbia River Gorge region since 1906, preserving a century of rail heritage that enriches this seasonal experience.
The railroad and local organizers emphasize minimizing environmental impact by encouraging carpooling and offering shuttle parking during peak holiday events.
Dress in cozy layers or holiday-themed attire to stay comfortable and celebrate the season.
winter specific
Capture the magical moments and scenic views throughout the ride.
Keep hands clean during the ride for health and hygiene, especially around food and shared spaces.
Bring payment options to enjoy on-site coffee and holiday treats from vendor carts.
winter specific