Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad transports passengers back in time
What better way to view Washington’s fall foliage then to take an exciting ride on Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad. It’s hard not to get excited as you hear the roar of the engines and the whistle, see the steam blowing and feel the clickety-clack of the tracks. The longest continually operating steam train railroad in the Pacific Northwest, the MRSR transports passengers with classic steam and diesel locomotives.
Traveling through the verdant timbered forest a rider on the MRSR feels suspended in time. The plaintive wail of a vintage locomotive whistle sends a lonesome echo rolling against the hillsides as travelers relax to a pace of a bygone era. Passengers discover the train travel allows for a chance to visit, make friends and share an experience. They are reminded that once railroads linked our nation and its people together in a way that airplanes or automobiles never have.
Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad has so much more to offer than just views of the amazing scenery Washington as to offer. With their caring staff of volunteers, they are able to offer an extensive itinerary of fun and festive rides. This fall welcomes their popular Autumn Leaves excursion, Saturdays and Sundays during October, which features a beautiful ride to Mineral Lake and back. Guests are welcome to stop and explore the area and later board the returning train home. If your idea is kicking back with a good brew and better company, Mount Rainier is hosting their second annual Rail to Ales this year. Enjoy an Oktoberfest celebration with live music and delicious food.
For those young at heart or are youngsters themselves, board the adorable Pumpkin Express, October 22 & 23. Meet “The Great Pumpkin” and experience gentle walking trails. Costumes and cameras are encouraged, and you are sure to have fun searching for your perfect pumpkin! And when autumn fades to winter, experience the nostalgic and magical Santa Express! The cars are completely decorated with trees, garland and lights. Santa will, of course, be on board as well, handing out gifts and enjoying the music, hot coca, cider and cookies along with you. With departures on Saturday and Sunday November 26 thru December 18, this attraction sells out every year, so be sure to book your seats early.
“I’m always excited to see each attraction’s special transformation,” says Jennifer Johnson, spokeswoman for the railroad. “So much care has been put in restoring the seats, engines, every last detail to its original state. The whistle blowing and the engine churning – no matter how many times I’ve heard it, always excites me!”
Johnson also states a little known fact about the railroad; they have the largest collection of historic engines in the state, and quite possibly in the country. “Many people come just to see the engines,” she says, “We also offer many tours. There truly is something for everyone.”
Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad, 54124 Mountain Hwy E., Elbe,
(888) STEAM11, www.mrsr.com
