Ring in the New Year aboard Santa Cruz's Holiday Lights Train! Enjoy festive lights, live DJ beats, and scenic forest views on this unique train ride experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and physical abilities.
Wildlife
History
Roaring Camp Railroads has operated historic steam train journeys in Santa Cruz County since the 1960s, preserving the region’s logging heritage.
Conservation
The railroad emphasizes sustainable practices by protecting local forest ecosystems and minimizing environmental impact during their tours.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Ring in the New Year aboard Santa Cruz's Holiday Lights Train! Enjoy festive lights, live DJ beats, and scenic forest views on this unique train ride experience.
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
Even with the canopy cover, temperatures can drop in the evening—bring layers to stay cozy throughout the ride.
Arrive Early to Secure Parking
Parking fills quickly during the holiday season, so plan to arrive early to ensure a convenient spot.
Bring a Camera with Flash
The light displays are spectacular but dim, so a camera with a flash or good low-light performance is recommended.
Check Accessibility Options
If you require mobility assistance, contact Roaring Camp Railroads ahead of time to learn about accommodations.
Warm Jacket
Keeps you comfortable during the chilly evening ride.
winter
Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for walking to and from the boarding area.
Camera with Low-Light Capability
Helps capture the glow of holiday lights after dark.
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Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your time at the park and waiting periods.