Review of the Tilden Steam Trains From an East Bay Local
Published: 2023-11-28, Last Updated: 2023-11-28
The Tilden Steam Trains, technically called the Redwood Valley Railroad, is one of those unique attractions that blends history and education with a genuinely fun, interactive experience that appeals to both kids and adults. The Tilden Steam Trains are located in Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley.
This attraction features a small-gauge steam locomotive that pulls guests on a meandering 15-minute ride through a redwood forest, with lovely aerial views of San Francisco. Operating since 1952, the Tilden Steam Trains are a piece of Bay Area history.
But the trains and tracks are carefully maintained (you can watch this process by visiting the train shed right at the entrance) and the attraction feels safe and well cared for. When you arrive, purchase the tickets at the depot. They're inexpensive--about $4.
Then, wait in line for the next train. The line looks long, but it moves very fast, as each train can accommodate at least 50 riders. Board the train, and you'll go on a ride through the redwoods, over several bridges, and through a tunnel. The views are majestic, and there's something serene and wonderful about gliding through the redwoods behind a tiny steam engine.
Unlike many scale model railroads in the Bay Area, the Redwood Valley Railroad uses genuine steam locomotives, not diesel or electric replicas. While passengers are unloading, the staff--who are super experienced and passionate--are happy to share info on California's railroad history or answer questions about the locomotives.
Keep in mind that you're up in the hills, so the ride can get chilly. Bring layers. Parking can often be extremely difficult, too, as the steam trains' lot is small.
The trains are open daily during the summer, but only on weekends and select holidays during the winter, so make sure to check the website. The Tilden Steam Trains are absolutely worth a visit. They're perfect for young train enthusiasts and a great time for older rail fans, too.
Reviewed by Thomas Smith
The author at the Tilden Steam Trains
Pros
- The Tilden Steam Trains provide a fun, interactive experience that appeals to both kids and adults.
- The attraction is safe and well-maintained.
- The views during the train ride are majestic, offering a serene experience through redwood forests.
- Unlike many similar attractions, the train uses genuine steam locomotives, not diesel or electric replicas.
- The staff is experienced and knowledgeable, willing to share information about California's railroad history.
Cons
- The line to board can often be long.
- The ride can get chilly due to its location in the hills.
- Parking can be difficult due to the small size of the lot.
- The trains only operate daily during the summer, and only on weekends and select holidays during winter.
- You need to check the website to know the train schedule.
How We Evaluated It
I have visited the Tilden Steam trains at least 10 times with my kids. I have gone on holidays, major weekends, and also random Summer week days. I have also visited during special events, like the annual solstace festival.
Other Nearby
United Dumplings Rockridge (7.5/10)
Bondadoso Coffee Shop (7.0/10)
Bay Area Discovery Museum (9.5/10)
Photos
Train approaches the station at the Redwood Valley Railroad, a functioning small gauge steam train in Tilden Regional Park, Orinda, California, July 18, 2021. (I took this photo)
A staff member maintains a locomotive at the Redwood Valley Railroad, a functioning small gauge steam train in Tilden Regional Park, Orinda, California, July 18, 2021. (I took this photo)
Visitors aboard train at the Redwood Valley Railroad, a functioning small gauge steam train in Tilden Regional Park, Orinda, California, July 18, 2021. (I took this photo)
Family waiting outside the quaint ticket station of Redwood Valley Railway surrounded by lush forest in Tilden Regional Park, Orinda, California, July 22, 2023. (I took this photo)
Address
2481 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Orinda, CA 94563
Contact Info
Website: Click Here