Don't Miss the Train: Here are Your Top 6 Adventures on the V&T Railway

PLEASE NOTE:

The V&T Railway long line 2020 season, running from Carson City to Virginia City, has been unfortunately cancelled due to COVID-19 to ensure the safety of our patrons. See vtrailway.com for more details. We hope to see you for the Polar Express.

The short line, which boards in Virginia City, will have a separate schedule that is still pending: virginiatruckee.com/

Travel back in time to the early 1870s on a historic ride from Nevada’s beautiful state capital to the richest silver mining area in the nation, Virginia City. While originally being used to haul silver ore down the mines, the restored 1914 Pullman coach led by a 1916 Baldwin 2-8-0 steam locomotive now offers an engaging trip on one of the most famous short lines in American history. The V&T Railway celebrates its 150th Anniversary in 2019 and will continue taking passengers on trips through the historic Comstock mining region.

1. Carson City – Virginia City

Get ready to embark on a journey to the old wild west! This 24-mile trip from Carson City to Virginia City provides a fully narrated tour of the historic Comstock mining region while overlooking the Virginia Range for you and the entire family to enjoy. You will have the opportunity to see two historic train tunnels and the wild mustangs of the Sierra Nevada, tour the “Big Bonanza” of Virginia City and much more.

2. Toast of the Canyon

Cheers to this exclusive 45-minute train route of the Sierra Nevada mountains every other Saturday starting in June. This train travels south of Carson City’s Eastgate Depot into the Carson River Canyon. Sip on libations and taste yummy appetizers as you see all historic locations of Comstock stamp and timber processing mills, making this a perfect date night idea. Don’t miss out on the chance to hear the historic steam train whistle echoing off the canyon walls.

3. Mother’s Day Train

Treat mom to complimentary mimosas, pastries and a long-stem rose on her special day with this 24-mile scenic route through the Virginia Range. This diesel train ride will give mom a special look at the silver state’s historic silver ore mining region stopping at Virginia City for an authentic Mother’s Day celebration.

4. The Polar Express Train Ride

Can you hear the sleigh bells ringing? The Polar Express Train Ride is one of the most anticipated family-friendly activities during the holiday season. The Polar Express is not only a movie to watch over the holidays in the Comstock mining region. The V&T Railway provides the entire experience—sleigh bell, hot chocolate, cookies. The one-hour long ride brings the Polar Express story to life with live entertainment, characters and special guest appearance by Santa. Protip: The Polar Express has more availability during the week than on the weekends, so be sure to plan accordingly—jammies and all!

5. Stars & Stripes Train

There’s no better way to celebrate freedom and Independence Day weekend than by traveling on one of the most famous short lines in American history. Join in this patriotic celebration en route to Virginia City to stroll the boardwalks, mines, and shops and while you’re at it, stop by an authentic saloon!

6. 150th Anniversary Kick-Off Train

It’s the V&T Railway 150th Anniversary and every Friday from August 16th through October 11 there will be a special celebration of this historic railway. It will feature a re-enactment of 1800s banker and businessman William T. Sharon, famous for his influence on the founding of the railroad in 1869. Be a part of the true old wild west and don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity.

Chugga chugga down to the V&T Railway at the Carson City Eastgate Depot at 4650 Eastgate Siding Road in Carson City for more information. Purchase tickets online in advance and save time.

Photos by Marcello Rostagni Photography