Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

We did the Santa experience. We sat in the caboose (which on the way there is in front) which was very fun (and has some seats up high) but it's not decorated and you can't move between the cars. The main (indoor) cart is decorated and has snacks available. It's a fun experience. There is one short stop and you can go down to a waterfall and also meet Santa. There are porta potties at the stop (and the main compartment of the train has a bathroom). We sat in the open cart on the way back and it was really fun but it does get windy and wet. The way back is shorter. You go one way for about 40 min, go through a tunnel, then go back the same way. Then about a 20 min stop with Santa (hot chocolate, hot cider, coffee, small snacks and prizes for kids), then head back. We recommend sitting on the left side on the way to the tunnel although the right has better views of the bridge and river.

Run all by very friendly volunteers! It's a fun, affordable, local activity that kids under 6 will definitely enjoy because it is a slow, smooth ride. For the Christmas train it is just under a 2hr journey including a pitstop to see Santa, get some hot cocoa or apple cider, and a toy (for donations) - and get a photo op with Santa! It's a good time to use the outhouse as well. You can also buy some fun train type toys in the ticket office. They have other special events throughout the year, too.

Really great train ride. Had low expectations at first since it's just an out and back little ride but the volunteer staff which operate the whole program made the experience great. Lots of history and old stories about the rail line.

Passes through a unique tunnel and stops at a very nice water fall. A relaxing 2 hour ride through some very scenic country you could not see otherwise.

A fun little 2 hour outing on an old train with onboard conductors who are passionate about history and their trains.

Train is old and rickety but that’s what you are wanting for this kind of experience. We rode outbound in one the outdoor cars and back in the indoor car.

The stop at the waterfall was a pleasant surprise and offered a nice opportunity to take some fun train photos.

Stations only have port a potties and train also has some restrooms that aren’t much better so be prepared.

Also, they have some drinks and snacks onboard but outside of that bring your own food.