The Redwood Valley Railway offers a unique opportunity to spend a day with family or friends enjoying the redwoods and exploring the Bay Area. This is an experience that will be remembered for years to come.  This article will discuss what you can expect from your day on the railroad, as well as some of the other activities in Redwood Valley that you might want to explore after your trip.

All About Redwood Valley Railway

The Redwood Valley Railway is a miniature railway in Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley. It was established in 1952 by Erich Thomsen as the South Gate and Pacific Railroad on the gauge but has since expanded to over 160, 000 passengers annually with his work for Western Pacific Rail Road which he received three patents from. The land occupies used before this time was anti-aircraft gun emplacement before becoming part of our public parks system.

The Redwood Valley Railway is a fun way to experience history. The new 15″ gauge, 5″ scale equipment allowed two adults to ride side by side and it’s representative of American narrow gauge railroads. Two out of our three locomotives have made trips across seas.  After Thomsen died in 1995 his daughter Ellen took over operations here until now. Operation rides last approximately 12 minutes.

Fun Rides

The Redwood Valley Railway is a great place for a day trip. The train takes you on a scenic ride through the redwoods, and there are also fun rides for kids. The park is huge and has great views of the bay area. There’s something for everyone, so be sure to check it out.

The Merry-Go-Round

The Herschell Spillman merry-go-round in Tilden Regional Park is a magnificent antique carousel with hand-carved and beautifully painted wooden animals to ride. The calliope-style music will make any child’s heart sing.

Train Rides

The amazing Redwood Valley Railway in Tilden Regional Park offers guests a chance to experience the thrill of steam train rides along scenic ridges, all while being scaled-down versions with little noise and smoke.

Other Amenities

Parking Lot

There is a large parking lot at the Redwood Valley Railway, which makes it easy to access.

Bike Parking

There is also plenty of room to park your bike at the railway.

Restrooms

The station also has restrooms to use.

Picnic Areas

There are several picnic areas, where you can enjoy your lunch after the trip. There is even a play area for kids.

Dogs Allowed

Dogs are allowed at the Redwood Valley Railway, so you don’t have to leave your furry friend behind.

What To Expect At Redwood Valley Railway

The Redwood Valley Railway is a great place for train enthusiasts and families to enjoy together. Bring your camera and take home memories from this memorable experience. The kids will love the chance to ride on an actual steam engine, as well as check out the gift shop full of fun toys and souvenirs that they can purchase at their leisure. As you head down into the valley, be sure to keep looking back up at these towering redwoods. If you don’t want all those pesky bugs flying around in your hair when picnicking here, consider bringing a tent or canopy over with some snacks because there are plenty of picnic tables spread throughout the area where you can sit down before heading back through another tunnel towards Orinda Station again.

Operation Hours

Redwood Valley Railway is open year-round on Saturday, Sunday and holidays. The train runs from 11 AM to 6 PM (weather permitting). During the winter months when it closes early at nightfall, summer vacation hours are available and spring break weekday hours are from 11 AM to 5 PM (weather permitting).

We hope you’ll come and see for yourself why Redwood Valley Railway is one of the best day trips we can think of. You should be able to find a time that works with your schedule, as they offer train rides year-round. If all this sounds like something you want to check out, give us a call today.