Step aboard a luxurious holiday lights train in Santa Cruz and celebrate New Year's in style with plush 1st Class Coach Cars and stunning scenic views. Discover why this unique trip is the perfect festive escape.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels since the ride is seated with no physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
Roaring Camp Railroads operates historic steam trains dating back to the 1800s, preserving Santa Cruz’s deep railroad heritage.
Conservation
The company emphasizes sustainable operations by protecting surrounding forests and minimizing environmental impact during train excursions.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Step aboard a luxurious holiday lights train in Santa Cruz and celebrate New Year's in style with plush 1st Class Coach Cars and stunning scenic views. Discover why this unique trip is the perfect festive escape.
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.
Arrive Early to Secure Seating
First Class Coach Cars have limited seating; arriving early ensures you get the best spot for window views.
Dress Warmly for the Evening
Even though the cars are cozy, temperatures can drop in the Santa Cruz Mountains during winter nights.
Bring a Camera or Smartphone
You'll want to capture the glowing holiday lights and charming scenery along the route.
Consider Dining Options in Santa Cruz
Plan a meal before or after your train ride to make the most of your evening outing.
Warm Jacket
Keep comfortable during cooler evening temperatures on the train and at the station.
winter
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the festive holiday lights and scenic views throughout your journey.
Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for walking around the train station before and after the ride.
Small Backpack or Bag
Convenient for holding personal items and any refreshments you bring along.