Fodor's Expert Review Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad and Museum
Editor's Note: This property is currently undergoing renovations.
This trip takes you through lush forests and across scenic bridges, covering 14 miles of incomparable beauty. Trains depart from Elbe, 11 miles west of Ashford, then bring passengers to a lovely picnic area near Mineral Lake before returning. The trains run weekends from mid-May to June, then Friday--Sunday from July through Labor Day weekend, and Saturday through mid-October. Special pumpkin patch excursions operate for two weekends in late October, and Winter Polar Express trains run from mid-November to December on weekends (and daily during winter break, except Christmas Day). Prices start at $41 for basic excursions; special events—including wine and craft beer trains—cost more. At Mineral Lake, guests can tour the museum containing old train memorabilia and artifacts and exhibits on the area's old railroad camps.
