There’s a magical trail park where kids can be kids – and grown ups can also be kids – hidden in plain sight just north of Phoenix nearby to Interstate 17. It’s part of the Maricopa Live Steamers Club, a train club where members make their own small scale locomotives (diesel or steam) and then run them all over the 18 miles of track in the park. But what fun is having a fully-functional small scale train if no one rides it? This is precisely why this fun-lovin’ railfan club gives FREE rides on Sundays (from September to May).

On any given Sunday, in season, there are at least four of these kitschy trains running along the miles and miles of track in this spansive park.
Google Maps/HanksASC
Facebook/Maricopa Live Steamers Public Runs
The rides are on a first-come, first-served basis and last a whopping 30-40 minutes! The trains run continuously between noon and 4:30.
Facebook/Maricopa Live Steamers Public Runs
Facebook/Maricopa Live Steamers Public Runs

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What fun it will be to hop aboard one of the custom train cars! Our faves are probably the ones with the cushy bucket seats that seem to be recycled from automobiles. You'll find a variety of custom cars and seating on the many trains in the park.
Facebook/Maricopa Live Steamers Public Runs
Facebook/Maricopa Live Steamers Public Runs
Additionally, there is a multitude of fun trains running each Sunday, and they may also differ from Sunday to Sunday. It's also worth pointing out that just because it's free, doesn't mean they won't accept a donation. All donations are applied to upkeep of the park and tracks.
Facebook/Maricopa Live Steamers Public Runs
You'll find this charming and kitschy train park next to Wet n Wild in Phoenix - which probably explains why you may not remember having seen the trains... you were too distracted by the water park!
Google Maps [enchanced]

The Maricopa Live Steamers Railroad Club is located at 22822 North 43rd Ave., Glendale, AZ. The club is open to train-loving enthusiasts (and members) year-round, however, due to excessive summer heat, the free public train rides are only offered from September to May. The first Sunday this year for free public train rides will be Sunday, September 9, 2018. Free rides will be offered between 12 noon and 4:30 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. More information about this fun family activity can be found on the official website of the Maricopa Live Steamers Club.

Love trains? Here’s another train park in Arizona that definitely belongs on the bucket list!

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