Yosemite Mountain Train / Sugar Pine Railroad

Train watchers and those that simply just love the old steam trains have found a new haven at the Yosemite Mountain Train Sugar Pine Railroad, located conveniently in the Sierras in California. This exciting exhibition portrays railroading as it was from the late 1800's to the 1930's, offering rides, souvenirs and many things to view and do. In fact, it is a great place for a family excursion.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is located in Yosemite National Park, high in the southern section, amongst the Sierra Mountains. This narrowly gauged railroad has a history that reflects the pioneering wonders of California during the late 19th century and up to pre-WW II. Tourists can enjoy the scenes, sights and sounds that the original travelers experienced in varied trip lengths and see the many restored museum pieces amongst its exhibitions.

The railroad was originally owned by the Madera Sugar Pine Lumber Company, who used the route to transport wood from nearby forests to their intended destinations. Huge locomotives were used to pull long trains, some of which have survived to this day.

Though most of the original tracks have long since been removed, a part of it still remains and was reconstructed in traditional ways. Two of the surviving locomotives were given to the museum and are used to pull trains for railroading tourists to ride on.

There are many activities that can be enjoyed there, including the Logger Steam Train one-hour ride, the Jenny Railcars thirty-minute ride, the Moonlight Special, the Melodrama Evening, and shopping for souvenirs in the gift store. The Moonlight Special begins with a barbecue dinner, musical accompaniments and a ride through a nearby canyon. The Melodrama Evening includes the same activities as the Moonlight Special, but adds in a theatrical performance in the nearby forest and a return ride in starlight.

There are special group tours, family excursions and even school trips that can be booked ahead of time. Prices are very reasonable, and the events and rides can be enjoyed throughout the year.