Roaring Camp Railroads

Overview

Roaring Camp Railroads offers scenic steam train rides through the redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains. This historic railroad provides a unique journey into the past, with beautifully restored trains and knowledgeable conductors.

Roaring Camp Railroads is significant for its preservation of historic steam trains and its role in showcasing the natural beauty of the redwood forests. It offers a unique blend of history and nature, making it a popular tourist attraction.

Historic Site Scenic Railway

Location

Address

5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, California

Neighborhood: Santa Cruz Mountains

Coordinates

37.074300, -122.080200

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$25

Children

$12 (ages 3-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May and October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3 hours

Full Experience

Full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild and pleasant

• Flowers
• Lush greenery

summer

Hot and sunny

• Extended operating hours

autumn

Cool and crisp

• Fall colors
• Harvest activities

winter

Cold and rainy

• Holiday decorations
• Winter wonderland

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Check weather forecast
Wear comfortable shoes

What to Bring

essential

Tickets ID Water

seasonal

Jacket in cooler months Umbrella in rainy season

not allowed

Large backpacks Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Uneven terrain
• Steps and steep inclines

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $20

parking $10

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, Walking shoes or hiking boots, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 2 weeks in advance
• Official website
• 48 hours notice for refund
• Available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Roaring Camp Railroads App

Size: 50 MB

Features: Ticket booking, Train schedules, Interactive map, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe and picnic areas

Charging Stations: Visitor center and cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: San Jose International Airport (SJC)

Distance: 35 miles

Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

taxi

$80-$100 45 min

public_transport

$10 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 10 miles

car

Gas and tolls if applicable 20 min

bus

$2.50 30 min

taxi

$30-$40 20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic significance and beautiful natural surroundings

Historical Significance: Preserves the history of steam trains in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Insider Tips

Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds
Check for special events and themed train rides
Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic areas

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
• Try local cafes and restaurants in Felton

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is the...?

how_much How much does it cost?

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for dramatic shots of the train

Result: Great shot of the historic steam locomotive

#RoaringCamp #SteamTrain #SantaCruz

Redwood Forest

Best Time: Midday

Tips: Wide shots to capture the towering redwoods

Result: Breathtaking images of the redwood forest

#Redwoods #Nature #Outdoors

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Designated photography spots

prohibited areas Tunnels and restricted zones

flash photography Not allowed in tunnels

commercial photography Permit needed for commercial use

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Restricted to designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed but must be used responsibly

Nearby Attractions

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Distance: 1 mile

Walking: 20 min

Type: State Park

Felton Covered Bridge

Distance: 0.5 miles

Walking: 10 min

Type: Historic Site

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk