Step back in time and experience a bit of yesteryear.
Enjoy the beautiful Oregon Coast line by riding the rail behind a 1910 Heisler Steam Locomotive. This scenic trip chugs along Tillamook Bay and gives passengers views of the ocean. Great for all ages, this trip will give you a glimpse into history.
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This is a one hour round trip steam locomotive ride along the Oregon Coast from Garibaldi to Rockaway Beach, Oregon. The engine is powered by used motor oil rather than coal. You can choose between open or enclosed railway cars. You might consider the enclosed car so that you don't experience the black smoke from the locomotive. The passenger cars have been nicely restored and the narration during the trip is good. There is a half hour shopping break at the turnaround.
A fun little trip for families with young kids. We booked the 11 am with the 12:00 pm return but decided to have lunch in Giribaldi. The conductor was very accommodating so we came back on the 2 pm. There was a playground right near the depot which kept the kids busy. Highly recommend for families with little ones.
We have been on several of these train rides in different various parts of the country. It’s not too expensive and it’s not too corny and it’s fun to get out at each stop. We stopped in Rockaway a half hour really not long enough time to get out and walk around anywhere. The weather was cloudy and overcast and chilly but the train ride was fun.
A great day on the train. The conductor and ticket agent were great. The train is so much fun and the history lesson was good and not to involved. It was set for all ages. We had perfect weather, lunch and a walk on the beach in Rockaway Beach. Great fun for the entire family, they are even pet friendly.
We booked the Steam Locomotive Cab Ride, an option we didn’t know existed until getting to the website’s ticket checkout, and it was well worth the price. Riding on the McCloud River Railroad #25 engine while taking in the sights of the coast was an unforgettable experience. Our engineer George and fireman Nathan were gracious hosts who ensured we were comfortable and having fun (no worries there) while teaching us about their duties and the complex operation of the engine. Thank you both for making the ride feel extra special! Some tips: if you book the engine ride, you’ll be making a round trip with a 30 min layover, whereas most other riders who started in Garibaldi got off at Rockaway Beach to return later in the afternoon. It’s a very short drive from Garibaldi though, so if you want to return you can be back to Rockaway Beach in 10 minutes. If you’re sensitive to loud noises, bring earplugs. You will also need the ability/strength to climb a short ladder into the engine.
