Ah, the open rails! It harks back to the days when train travel was the primary mode of transportation before the automobile took over and road trips became more common. These days one can experience an amazing open air train ride in Northern California by embarking on the Niles Canyon Railway. The company offers an array of exciting scenic adventures for the whole family. So, if you love adventure as much as I do, read on and get ready to hear "All aboard!".
Niles Canyon is located just east of downtown Fremont, CA off highways 84 and 238. The area is the site of the first transcontinental railroad in the mid-1800s. The lines played an integral role in ferrying passengers between San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area, and Sacramento.
The train and the town established here are named after a former railroad attorney and prominent judge - Addison C. Niles.
Although passenger railroad voyages severely decreased, and in some places ceased altogether over the years, scenic train rides in California started up again in 1988.
Today, open air train rides are offered between Niles, California, on the western end, and Sunol, California, (approximately six miles) to the east year-round.
The Pacific Locomotive Association, Inc., which operates the Niles Canyon Railway, possesses an eclectic collection of trains including steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, motorcars passenger cars, and cabooses.
Each train has been carefully and lovingly restored to its previous grandeur. The round trip excursions on these open air train rides in California take about an hour and 20 minutes, each one offering picturesque views of the canyon and surrounding countryside.
The trains are more than just transportation modes. They are considered part of a living history museum.
Passengers here will learn a great deal about the history, significance, and enjoyment of rail travel during its heyday in small-town America, particularly in the western part of the country, when taking one of the most scenic train rides in California. At the Sunol Depot, they can also explore several displays and exhibits with railroad artifacts and other memorabilia.
Depending on the day and time of the excursion, passengers may embark upon open-window enclosed coaches or completely open-air cars.
These train rides in Northern California, aboard historic diesel and steam locomotives, are great for families, small groups, reunions, themed excursions, and so forth.
Niles Canyon Railway also operates several self-propelled railcars.
It’s hard to describe the feeling of ambling along aboard these majestic, restored trains!
During the holiday season, Niles Canyon Railway offers special Train of Lights rides.
The trains are decorated in beautiful colors and strung with lights for the journey through the nighttime landscape. The line even provides hot cocoa each night to help make it a special occasion! Hence, another reason why they're one of the best scenic train rides in California.
Another welcome aspect is that the Pacific Locomotive Association, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with scores of enthusiastic volunteers who spend countless hours in all aspects of its operation. Historic train rides in Northern California, on classic vehicles, with a philanthropic heart – that's a double win!
Have you embarked upon a journey along the Niles Canyon Railway? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience there. You can also find out about its rides and special events on the railway's Facebook page. We also suggest that book this fun-filled experience through Tripadvisor.
For other railway-themed adventures in California, be sure to check out the River Fox Train Company Railbikes as well.
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