California Trip {Roaring Camp Railroads}

The boys were in love.

We made a habit of googling fun and kid friendly things to do each night in the hotel, in preparation of our next day travels. It’s really a handy little tool to be honest, and it helped us find a lot of great things to do with the kids. We really did spend a good portion of our holiday in the vehicle, so we tried to maximize on as much outside time as possible.

On our way back to Sacramento from Santa Cruz, we made a stop at the Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton. We just knew the kids (especially the boys) would LOVE it, being as obsessed with Thomas as they are. To be honest, I think we were both as excited too.

The Santa Cruz, Big Trees & Pacific Railway Company operates passenger and freight services on one of the oldest and most historic lines in California. When the route opened in 1875 it carried picnickers and tourists to the Big Trees and Santa Cruz. Today’s Beach Trains travel through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, down the scenic San Lorenzo River Gorge, across a 1909 steel truss bridge, and through an 1875 tunnel before arriving at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

We did not, however, get to enjoy the long journey and went only for the quick little *get the experience* train ride. It was awesome, though a little chilly. And something I think we’d both do again as we all had a great time and enjoyed the scenery. Forests are so beautiful…and these trees – sooooo tall!

What a great way to break up the day a little and make more memories. If you are nearby, it’s worth the stop.