Virginia and Truckee Railroad
Ride a historic steam or diesel train through Nevada's Comstock Lode region, reliving the Wild West era.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for rides
Virginia and Truckee Railroad
Best Time
Pleasant weather for rides

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a historic steam or diesel train through Nevada's Comstock Lode region, reliving the Wild West era.
"A memorable tour with engaging explanations and a journey through American history."
📸 Capture the Scenery
Stick your head out the window for great photos and smells! #trainphotography
⏳ Allow Extra Time
Factor in time for boarding, the ride, and exploring the gift shop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Steam Train Ride
Virginia City Depot
Experience the rumble and charm of a vintage steam locomotive as it chugs through historic Nevada landscapes.

Comstock Lode History Tour
Onboard the train
Journey back in time with engaging narration about the Comstock Lode, mining history, and the Wild West.

Themed Holiday Trains
Virginia City Depot
Special events like the Candy Cane Express offer festive fun for families during the holiday season.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Check Operating Schedule
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Scenery
Stick your head out the window for great photos and smells!
#trainphotography⏳ Allow Extra Time
Factor in time for boarding, the ride, and exploring the gift shop.
🎁 Visit the Gift Shop
Find a variety of goodies for all tastes after your ride.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
A great activity for families visiting Reno or Carson City.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Scenery
Stick your head out the window for great photos and smells!
#trainphotography⏳ Allow Extra Time
Factor in time for boarding, the ride, and exploring the gift shop.
🎁 Visit the Gift Shop
Find a variety of goodies for all tastes after your ride.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
A great activity for families visiting Reno or Carson City.
🎬 Hollywood History
These trains have starred in famous films like 'Back to the Future III'!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Virginia and Truckee Railroad for its engaging historical narration and the charm of its vintage trains, especially the steam locomotives. Many highlight the friendly staff and the fun, family-friendly atmosphere. However, some find the standard ride a bit short, and there have been isolated reports of negative interactions with specific tour guides.
"One of the most memorable tours we have been on! We loved the explanation of everything we were seeing along the way and that the tour guide spent time to answer questions! Going through the train tunnel was unforgettable and American Flats is a beautiful place! Highly organized by a friendly group of folks! Thank you for making this memory special for us and teaching us about my home state, the Silver State!"
Ryan Guariglia
"Nice train ride where some stories about Virginia are told. We took the 35 minute tour which runs daily every hour. It was a little bit short and you’ll have to take the same way back (no round tour)."
Stefan HDT
"Such a nice train ride. We enjoyed the conductor a lot. He gives a good history of the area and has a fun sense of humor. The gift shop has a variety of goodies for all tastes. The front is a shady area to rest while you wait for the train. We will certainly be back for the holiday season to see Santa there."
Mariah Riker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Virginia and Truckee Railroad is primarily accessed from Virginia City, Nevada. It's a popular destination for those visiting the historic mining town. Many visitors combine a trip to the railroad with exploring Virginia City itself.
Parking is available in Virginia City, though it can be busy, especially on event days. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport options if available in the region.
Yes, the Virginia and Truckee Railroad is a common day trip from both Reno and Carson City, Nevada. It's a scenic drive to Virginia City, where the railroad operates.
Driving is the most common method. The roads leading to Virginia City are generally well-maintained, offering scenic views of the Nevada landscape.
Public transport directly to Virginia City can be limited. It's best to check local transit schedules for Carson City or Reno for any connecting bus services, though driving is generally more convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Virginia and Truckee Railroad website or in person at the stage office in Virginia City. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular dates.
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of train and any special events. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing information for the specific ride you're interested in.
The standard scenic train ride is approximately 35 minutes round trip, covering about 4 miles. Special events might have different durations.
Yes, the railroad typically offers rides on both steam and diesel locomotives, providing different historical experiences.
While same-day tickets may be available, it's strongly advised to book in advance, as popular trains, especially themed ones, often sell out.
🎫 🚂 Onboard Experience
You can expect a scenic journey through historic Nevada landscapes, with engaging narration about the Comstock Lode and local history. Some rides offer unique experiences like going through tunnels.
Absolutely! The Virginia and Truckee Railroad is a very kid-friendly activity, offering a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
The guides share details about the V&T Railroad's history, its role in the Comstock Lode silver rush, and stories of the Wild West era.
Yes, photography is encouraged! Many visitors enjoy capturing the historic trains and the surrounding scenery. Some even lean out the window for unique shots.
Yes, the railroad hosts popular themed events throughout the year, including sold-out holiday trains like the Candy Cane Express and Holiday Trains o' Lights.
📸 📸 Photography
Besides being on the train, the depots and surrounding historic areas in Virginia City and Gold Hill offer great vantage points. Train chasers often seek out scenic overlooks along the route.
Yes, the steam locomotives are a major draw for photographers. Capturing them in action, especially during special events, is a highlight for many railfans.
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful golden hour shots. Check the schedule for steam train operations, as they are often more photogenic.
Popular shots include close-ups of the locomotives, the train moving through scenic landscapes, and passengers enjoying the ride.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other passengers and operational areas. Professional or commercial shoots might require special permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚂 Railfans & History Buffs
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History: The V&T Railroad Legacy
Today, the V&T operates as a heritage railway, offering visitors a chance to step back in time. You can choose between riding a historic steam locomotive or a diesel engine, experiencing the unique charm of each. The Comstock Lode history is vividly brought to life through onboard narration, making the journey both entertaining and educational.
Beyond the regular scenic rides, the V&T Railroad is renowned for its special events. Their holiday trains, such as the Candy Cane Express and Holiday Trains o' Lights, are incredibly popular and sell out well in advance, offering a festive experience for families. Visiting the V&T Railroad is a fantastic way to connect with Nevada's rich mining past and enjoy a memorable excursion.
Experiencing the V&T: From Steam to Special Events
Beyond the standard rides, the V&T Railroad is famous for its themed excursions. The holiday season is a particularly busy time, with events like the Candy Cane Express and Holiday Trains o' Lights drawing large crowds. These special trains often include Santa visits and festive decorations, making them a hit with families. It's crucial to check the railroad's schedule and book tickets well in advance for these popular events, as they frequently sell out.
For those interested in the mechanics and history of the railroad, the V&T Railroad Museum and depot areas offer further insights. You can see various locomotives, including the unique McKeen Motor Car, and learn about the railroad's operational history. The gift shop also provides a chance to pick up souvenirs related to the V&T and Virginia City's history.
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