Today, I’m going to be talking about the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad, a living relic nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. I’m here to help you understand everything you need to know before you take a trip on it, what to expect on the journey and how to get the most out of it.
Basic info:
- Name: Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad
- Location: Elbe, Washington
- Ticket prices: $15 and up
- Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars
While this ride is pretty short (and slow), it will take you through some of the most scenic areas inside Washington State, and along the way you’ll also be partaking in a historic journey that believe it or not is about a century old. So let’s get to all the details about and we’ll start with the ticket prices.
Ticket pricing details:
- Adults: $34
- Youth (Ages 6 to 18): $15
- Children under 6: Free
The trains at the station depart 3 times a day (morning, afternoon and late afternoon). Although the above ticket prices are the most common, you’ll find that they can vary depending on the season. Peak times generally include summer months and special events, so expect to pay a bit more during these periods.
Purchasing tickets is straightforward. Head over to the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad’s website to buy them online, which is my recommended approach to ensure your spot on the train. If you’re feeling old-school, you can also buy them at the depot on a first-come, first-served basis, but during the busy season, I wouldn’t risk it.
Now that we have this covered, in the next section, you’re going to find out about the stunning vistas and historical landmarks that make the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad not just a journey, but an experience to remember!
Sights on the trip:
Your short journey first takes you through the Nisqually Valley, offering panoramic views that are simply too good for any camera lens to do justice. Keep an eye out for the rushing waters of the Nisqually River, where if you’re lucky, you might spot eagles in flight.
The train will wind its way around verdant forests, over wooden trestle bridges that are engineering marvels in their own right, and past mountain meadows teeming with wildflowers during the spring and summer months.
At certain points along the route, you’ll get glimpses of Mount Rainier itself, an awe inspiring giant that dominates the skyline in Washington. The mountain’s snow-capped peak looms large, a reminder of the natural beauty and power of the Pacific Northwest.
The train’s path takes you near old logging camps and other remnants of the region’s rich pioneering past, a nod to the generations that shaped this landscape. As the train chugs onward, so does the narrative of this storied region.
Timing (best times to go):
Now, if you’re looking to make the best out of your visit to Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad, timing is crucial. Each season paints the landscape with a distinctive palette and brings its own set of delights.
- For example, the lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers of spring make it a joyful time for nature lovers.
- Summer offers the warmth and the best hiking conditions if you’re looking to stretch your legs post ride.
- As the leaves change, autumn transforms the scenery into a glorious tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds – truly a sight for sore eyes.
- And for those who relish in winter wonderlands, the snowy months turn the area into a frosty paradise, albeit with more limited service due to weather conditions.
The railroad has special events seasonally that shouldn’t be missed:
From themed holiday excursions like the ‘Pumpkin Express’ and ‘Santa Express’ to unique events such as the ‘Wine Train,’ there’s always something extra to make your journey unforgettable. These special rides often sell out quickly, so I’m here to help you by reminding you to book well in advance!
In my opinion, there’s really no wrong time to hop on the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad and it’s one of the reasons why I classify this ride as one of the best scenic train rides in Washington. Every season offers something special. Just remember to check the railroad’s schedule as it varies throughout the year, and some services may be limited or closed during certain months.
I really hope that you take the chance to experience this unique piece of history amidst some of the most breathtaking scenery Washington State has to offer. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a memorable outing, the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad is a journey that delivers in all seasons.
So choose a time to visit Elba and this ride based on what’s comfortable with your schedule and after you’re done, I highly recommend visiting the famous Mount Rainier National Park to get a much closer view of it.