Trains have been integral to Nevada’s history since the early days of mining silver and gold. Steam locomotives were utilized to transport ore and building materials. Nowadays, numerous historic Nevada railroads continue to offer passenger excursions. Additionally, several museums in Nevada aim to preserve the state’s railroad heritage. If it operates on rails in Nevada, you’ll find it here.
Southern California Trains – Northern California Trains
Virginia & Truckee Railway Long Line
Virginia & Truckee Railway is probably the best train ride in Nevada. The train travels along the original route of the Queen of the Short Lines from just east of Carson City to historic Virginia City. Steam and diesel pulled passenger cars along a 14-mile journey through the Virginia mountain range. The trip up to Virginia takes about 1.5 hours. The trip back to Carson City (downhill) takes 1 hour and fifteen minutes. There is a three-hour stopover in Virginia City, so plan a full day if you decide to take this trip.
Virginia City-Gold Hill Short Line
If you drive your car to Virginia City, you can still ride a train. Departing from the Original V&T 1870 Depot, the Virginia City-Gold Hill takes passengers on a 30-minute round trip to Gold Hill station and back. The train travels through numerous mines and a tunnel. Both open and closed passenger cars are used on this trip. The Virginia City-Gold Hill Short Line runs daily from May through October.
Nevada Northern Railway Museum
Train excursions are offered on weekends from April through January, with daily service between Memorial Day and the end of September. Suppose you want to do more than ride the train. Nevada Northern Railway offers several unique packages that let you operate the train. Visitors to the Nevada Northern Railway Museum can walk around the grounds and check out the shops where locomotives are serviced and restored.
Nevada State Railroad Museum Boulder City
If you are looking for a fun day trip from Las Vegas, the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Boulder City should be on your list. Be sure to visit on the weekend when the museum runs excursion trains along the Boulder City branch line. Every other weekend they also feature free miniature train rides.
Rail Explorers Las Vegas
This might be as close as you ever get to driving a train engine. Passengers provide the power for this trip with pedal-powered rail carts. Tours last about 90 minutes and take you on a section of rail that was once used in the construction of Hoover Dam. Carts travel one way for four miles. The return trip is on a real train included with your journey.
Nevada State Railroad Museum Carson City
Nevada State Railroad, Museum Carson City, features Nevada’s railroad heritage. It offers visitors unique hands-on experiences, from operating historic railroad equipment to train rides aboard historic Virginia and Truckee Railroad equipment and fascinating visual exhibits.
Nevada Railroads for Kids
Idlewild Park Reno Miniature Train
Idlewild Park in Reno features a miniature train that offers rides during the summer. Tickets are only two bucks per person. Idlewild Park provides tons of family fun, with a large playground and two small lakes for fishing. 2055 Idlewild Dr, Reno, NV.
Carson & Mills Park Railway
The Carson City Railroad Association runs a miniature train through Mills Park in Carson City. The ride lasts about 10 minutes and is open on weekends in the summer. Mills Park also has a skate park and aquatic facility. 851 E William St, Carson City, NV.
Nevada Monorails
Las Vegas Monorail
Fast, affordable, but unfortunately, not always convenient. The Las Vegas Monorail runs four miles from the MGM Grand to just short of the Stratosphere. Most of the stations require a long walk to the strip. However, staying at a hotel near the monorail is a great way to avoid the traffic. Several extensions have been planned, but none have ever completed construction. Las Vegas Monorail has five stations. A one-way ride costs $5.00. Considering the cost of a taxi in Las Vegas, it’s a deal. $1.00 tickets are available with a Nevada driver’s license. Locals only.
Bonnie Springs Ranch Railway
They are closed Permanently. Bonnie Springs Ranch near Las Vegas has a fun little train that adults and children will enjoy. The train trip lasts about twenty minutes and takes passengers on a loop around the ranch. Spectacular desert vistas are just one of the Bonnie Springs Ranch Train highlights. Gone but not forgotten.
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