Fall Splendor Excursion: Scenic Train Ride Along Oregon’s Tillamook Coast
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking is required during the Wheeler layover.
Overview
Experience Oregon’s fall colors from a vintage train on the Tillamook Coast. This 2-hour scenic ride offers stunning views of Nehalem Bay, autumn forests, and charming Wheeler town.
Fall Splendor Excursion
Starting at $24 • 2.25 Hour • All ages welcome!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Tillamook Coast this fall on a scenic train excursion! Journey through coastal forests and enjoy stunning views of Nehalem Bay and the Pacific Northwest mountains. With options for vintage steam or diesel locomotives, this memorable adventure is perfect for families, nature lovers, and photographers alike.
The Best Way to see the Tillamook Coast in Fall!
Rates
- Adult (ages 13-54): $30
- Child (ages 3-12): $22
- Infant (ages 2 and under): Free!
- Senior (ages 55+) or Veterans (must have valid ID): $25
Duration
Approximately 2.25 Hours
About
Join us for a scenic excursion along the Tillamook Coast and behold the changing of the season first-hand! This popular excursion travels through the coastal forests along the Pacific Ocean and Nehalem Bay with spectacular views of the coastline and the mountains along the way!
This excursion departs from Rockaway Beach for a train ride that is 45-minutes each way to and from the quaint town of Wheeler. Enjoy a 45-minute layover at Wheeler where you can shop, eat and enjoy views of the mighty Nehalem River.
Motive Power: For the first time ever, select weekends of Fall Splendor this year are scheduled to be pulled by our historic 1925 steam locomotive, McCloud River Railroad #25. Other weekends are scheduled to be pulled by one of our vintage diesel locomotives. Below are the dates where each type of motive power is scheduled to operate:
Steam Locomotive Dates: October 4-6 October 18-20 October 25-27 November 1-3
Diesel Locomotive Dates: September 27-29 October 11-13 November 8-10 November 15-17
Note: We reserve the right to substitute motive power at any time with or without notice.
Seating Options:
Open Car - OUTSIDE CAR has no roof, so bundle up!
Covered Car - OUTSIDE CAR has a roof but no windows, so bundle up!
Wilson River Car - 1920s passenger car. Has cushioned coach seating and is fully enclosed with windows and a roof.
Neahkahnie Car - 1910s dining car. Has tables and chairs and is fully enclosed with windows and a roof.
DUE TO LIMITED SEATING, SWITCHING SEATS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE.
Note: This Excursion is NOT Wheelchair Accessible.
All Tickets are Round Trip Tickets
Adventure Tips
Dress in Layers
Oregon Coast weather can change quickly; bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the ride.
Arrive Early to Board
Check in at least 15 minutes before departure to secure priority boarding and your assigned car.
Bring a Camera
Open-air cars provide great photo opportunities of Nehalem Bay and fall foliage—don’t forget your lens!
Use Restrooms Before Boarding
There are no restrooms on the train; use facilities at stations or during the Wheeler layover.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters frequently glide along the Nehalem River.
- Seabirds including bald eagles and herons are common sights along the coast.
History
The railroad played a key role in early 20th-century timber transport and shaping the local economy along the Tillamook Coast.
Conservation
The operators emphasize minimal environmental impact by preserving historic equipment and encouraging visitors to respect natural habitats near the rail line.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rockaway Beach
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Jacket
Keeps you warm against the coastal breeze during the autumn journey.
fall specific
Camera
Capture stunning vistas and wildlife along the route.
Binoculars
Great for spotting wildlife and distant landscape details.
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the trip.