Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
A scenic eight-mile round trip in open carriages takes you
through the Mill Canyon forests, following a route once used by
lumberjacks until 1931. Originally opened in 1874 by the California
Lumber Company, the tracks wind through the Sierra National Forest
in Yosemite National Park. The logger steam trains used on the
route date from 1913 and 1928, adding an authentic touch of
nostalgia to this popular journey.
From March until November each season, passengers gaze upon
majestic protected woodlands on the 4-mile, one-hour journey
through history. Boarding takes place at the depot in Fish Camp.
Passengers can ride in covered cars with forward-facing bench
seating on either side of a central aisle. The cars are entirely
open other than the half-wall and the roof, allowing guests to
immerse themselves in the majesty of the ancient forest.
Alternatively, riders may select a unique option and ride in the
former logging cars, completely open to the elements. These flatbed
cars are fitted with specially made bench seats carved from felled
trees.
Each route is filled with lore. From his post at the front of
the train, the conductor weaves the region's tales and presents
information about its flora and fauna as the train winds along its
timbered path, hugged by the natural rises and falls of the land.
There is a brief pause in the course at Lewis Creek Canyon, and
guests are welcome to step off the train to get a better look at
the surrounding nature or venture to the front to see the engine's
workings up-close. From this point, the train proceeds through the
loop to change directions and continue back to the station.