Roaring Camp Railroads

Roaring Camp Railroads operates two distinct railroads from its historic property in the redwood-forested hills above Santa Cruz. The Redwood Forest Steam Train runs the Bear Mountain Loop on a narrow-gauge track through some of the most spectacular old-growth coast redwood groves in California. The Santa Cruz Beach Train runs a standard-gauge railroad down through the San Lorenzo River gorge to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk.

The steam locomotives are the stars of the show — Roaring Camp is one of the very few places in the United States where families can ride behind a genuine working steam engine through a natural landscape. The locomotives date from the late 1800s and early 1900s and are maintained in operational condition. Watching the fireman stoke the boiler and hearing the engine's whistle echo through the redwood canyon is an experience with almost no modern equivalent.

The Bear Mountain Loop takes approximately 75 minutes round trip and climbs through groves of trees that predate European contact with North America. Several of the coastal redwoods along the route are estimated to be 1,500-2,000 years old. The train stops at the summit for photos before descending on the opposite side of the mountain, giving riders views from multiple angles.

The camp property itself is worth exploring before or after the train ride. The 1880s-era general store sells period-appropriate goods alongside modern snacks and souvenirs. The covered BBQ area with picnic tables is ideal for families who pack their own lunch. Occasionally the camp hosts special events including Civil War reenactments, chili cook-offs, and themed holiday trains.

For families with train-obsessed children, Roaring Camp is a once-in-a-childhood destination. For families who just want a beautiful outdoor experience, the combination of steam power, old-growth redwoods, and fresh mountain air creates a memory that outlasts any theme park ride.