Ride the Holiday Lights Train in Santa Cruz for a festive holiday adventure filled with caroling, hot cider, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Enjoy cozy canopy-covered cars and extra fun at the boardwalk with a $10 MyBoardwalk Card!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; no strenuous activity involved
Wildlife
History
Roaring Camp Railroads began operating in the 1960s, preserving historic steam locomotives and timber industry heritage in Santa Cruz.
Conservation
Efforts are made to minimize environmental impact by using sustainable boarding practices and protecting surrounding forest habitats.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Ride the Holiday Lights Train in Santa Cruz for a festive holiday adventure filled with caroling, hot cider, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Enjoy cozy canopy-covered cars and extra fun at the boardwalk with a $10 MyBoardwalk Card!
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.
Location
Felton, CA
Situated in the Santa Cruz redwood forest
Tours Offered
10 Experiences
Heritage rides and themed events
Family Events
Multiple
Includes Day Out With Thomas
Signature Rides
Vintage Steam
Moonlight Dinner Train to Bear Mountain
Reserve tickets for scenic steam train rides, family festivals, or themed dinner trains and secure a memorable day in Felton’s redwood forest.
Dress Warmly
Temperatures can drop in the evening, so wear layers and bring a warm jacket.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the departure to find parking and check in comfortably.
Bring a Camera
Capture festive moments on the decorated train and scenic route, but keep your camera secure while moving.
Use Your MyBoardwalk Card Wisely
Plan your boardwalk activities ahead to make the most of your $10 card for rides and games.
Warm Jacket
Keeps you comfortable during chilly evening rides.
winter
Camera or Smartphone
Capture festive moments and scenic views.
Comfortable Shoes
Helpful for walking around the boarding area and boardwalk.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the entire experience.