Hop aboard the scenic Beach Train from Roaring Camp and journey through towering redwoods to the lively Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy history, nature, and beach fun all in one unforgettable day!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours including train and beach time
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; the activity mostly involves sitting on the train and walking at the boardwalk.
Wildlife
History
Roaring Camp was once a bustling logging hub in the late 1800s, and the trains carry on the legacy of historic steam-powered logging railroads.
Conservation
Roaring Camp Railroads supports sustainable tourism practices, including forest preservation efforts and minimizing waste during operations.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Hop aboard the scenic Beach Train from Roaring Camp and journey through towering redwoods to the lively Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy history, nature, and beach fun all in one unforgettable day!
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.
Book Tickets in Advance
This popular ride sells out quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so secure your tickets early.
Dress Comfortably
Wear layers to prepare for cooler temperatures in the redwoods and warmer weather at the beach.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Arriving 30 minutes before departure ensures a smooth boarding process and better seating options.
Pack Beach Essentials
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear if you plan to enjoy the beach after the train ride.
Layered Clothing
Allows you to stay comfortable through varying temperatures between forest shade and sunny beach.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin during beach time and on sunny portions of the train ride.
summer
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for exploring the boardwalk and short walks at the train stations.
Water Bottle
Helps keep you hydrated during the journey and while enjoying the beach.