Roaring Camp Railroads- What Are The Main Attractions?
The Roaring Camp Railroads is the kind of location that takes you back in time thanks to two historic rides on the 100 year old steam engines, one of which is an open air train. You’re still able to get that old California town vibe because of the some of the old structures such as the depot, a general store, an engine house and other structures that are still there. Once a very vibrant logging town, this location still offers charming scenes all around the towering redwoods.
The steam engines will give you rides into the inner redwood country as they depart from Felton all the way to the peak of Bear Mountain.
Attractions
Mount Hermon Adventures- Enjoy fun adventures such as the popular Redwood Canopy Tours, mountain biking, sea kayaking, surfing, paint ball or target sport among other fun activities.
Steam Engine- Have an adventurous 75 minute ride through the tall redwood groves as the train conductor tells the history of the rail road, the forest and the Roaring Camp. These steam trains are among the oldest but they have been maintained incredibly well.
Group Activities- Whether you’re looking to have indoor or outdoor group activities, the Roaring Camp can host groups of 25 people to larger groups of up to 2500. The Bret Harte Hall is over 6000 sq. ft. while the picnic areas are plenty and surrounded by the gorgeous coastal oaks and redwoods. If you’re thinking of team building events, this is the place.
Educational Activities- There is so much to learn while having fun at Roaring Camp Railroads. Living History Days in May offer great insights of a bygone era, Engineering talks and nature walks are great for kids and youth. They can also get a chance to learn how to make candles, gold panning, marshal, crafting among many other activities.
Clubs for the Seniors- Groups of seniors can enjoy a good time the old fashioned way. The Chuckwagon BBQ that rides through the towers of redwood is one such example; the steam train to the beach is another good example.
Events- Weddings, reunions or birthdays can be hosted at the camp.
Roaring Camp Railroads events that can be attended by anyone include their Summer Music Series, The Santa Cruz Mountain Sol Festival, the Moonlight Train Dinner Party, and the Great Train Robberies among many others. For the kids you can book the famous Thomas the Tank Engine events that take place during summer and fall.
Tips
Book the train tickets early especially for the seasonal Roaring Camp Railroads events such as that of Thomas the Steam Engine. You may also be better off arriving early during these events to ensure you get the best deal. The prices are friendly for children.
If you’re going to use the open-air train with your young ones you may need to use noise cancelling headphones or safe ear plugs and jackets to keep them warm.
Parking at the Roaring Camp is available for a fee. If you need wheelchairs you can hire them at the ticket office.
You can bring your own food or buy at the camp; picnic tables are available for hire.
To get there, you need to get to Felton, and then take a short drive inland via Graham Hill from Santa Cruz. Alternatively if you’re coming from San Jose, you’ll use State Route 17.