This Unforgettable Train Ride Through Nevada Will Take You Back In Time

Railroads played a huge part in the history of the growth of the west. There was at one time around 70 different railroads operating in the state, particularly around the mining boom times. Now there are only two companies running freight in the state and one carrying passengers. Taking a ride on the Southern Nevada Railway takes you back into the past to see how miners and Hoover Dam construction workers experienced travel and supply deliveries.

The Southern Nevada Railway, and the accompanying Nevada Southern Railroad Museum is located in Boulder City. It is run through the Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs.

The railroad line is part of the original Union Pacific line created in 1931. The railroad was built to ferry supplies for the construction of the Hoover Dam.

The track is a total of 7 miles and the ride takes about 40 minutes. Several types of restored trains take passengers on a ride back into the past through Boulder City.

Pullman cars and open-air cars provide a relaxing way for passengers to enjoy the views of the city and mountains.

There is also a dining car that can be rented for events. And of course, a caboose!

The museum also has complete scaled replicas of some old-fashioned trains.

The railway offers several fun events for families each month. A story hour train ride happens on most Saturdays.

alt

Pajama rides also are a regular event where children can ride in their PJs, enjoy milk and cookies and story time.

There are also holiday-themed events, such as a spooky, costume-filled Halloween train and Santa rides in December.

The work of the museum and railway is primarily done by a non-profit volunteer group dedicated to preserving the history of trains in Nevada.

The museum and railway is located at 601 Yucca Street in Boulder City. A calendar of all their special event and story time rides are available on their website. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children under 12 and free for children 3 or younger.

Have you ridden on the Nevada Southern Railway? Share you trip experiences in the comments!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories