Join the 2026 Trains tour of the Southwest

Silver and yellow locomotives at the front of a passenger train

2026 Southwestern Rail Adventure Embark on a fully private car journey through the majestic landscapes of the American Southwest, where red rock canyons and desert vistas come alive under endless blue skies. Discover iconic national parks, ancient pueblos, and vibrant local culture as you travel in comfort and style. Experience the spirit of the Southwest […]

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A fishy call in the night

Yellow and orange diesel locomotives switching a yard. A fishy call in the night.

Being a safety supervisor at a small regional railroad entailed more than being a statistician. When promoted to the position on the Maine Central in early 1982, I was part of a two-man team, tasked with promoting safety. This required meeting train crews, riding with them, learning the rudiments of their tasks; talking with engineering […]

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2026 Trains tour of Alaska announced

A pair of yellow and blue diesel locomotives among the fall scenery of Alaska

2026 Alaska by Rail Experience the “last frontier” by rail in the colorful month of September. Enjoy incredible scenery through Denali National Park and down the Kenai Peninsula. 10 Days, 9 Nights September 4-13, 2026 Experience the full length of the Alaska Railroad in Goldstar Class. Kenai Fjords Boat Excursion Denali National Park Excursion For […]

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A big paint job

Large black and grey steam locomotive in a park.

Two Union Pacific paint technicians from Jenks Shop in North Little Rock, Ark., spent 7 weeks in Omaha, Neb., repainting Big Boy No. 4023 displayed in Kenefick Park on the grounds of Lauritzen Gardens. The 4-8-8-4 along with DDA40X No. 6900 welcome travelers from their location above I-80. The project involved considerable sand blasting to […]

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Temple Lumber Co. No. 20 moves to a new home

Temple Lumber Co. No. 20 moves to a new home. Steam locomotive be hauled on highway trailer.

Yes, that was a steam locomotive traveling along Texas Route 224. Temple Lumber Co. No. 20 was moved 95 miles from Pineland to Rusk, Texas and its new home in the former Cotton Belt yard. The locomotive was acquired by the non-profit Southern Pine Locomotive Co. It will be restored and placed in a fresh […]

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2026 Trains tour of Colorado announced

Narrow gauge steam locomotive and train under blue skies

2026 Colorado Rockies by Rail tour Experience the rails of the west with our extensive tour exploring the best of Colorado railroads. This red and rocky historic setting provides the perfect backdrop for a specially curated, all-inclusive rail adventure of a lifetime. 7 days, 6 nights, June 2-8, 2026. Private Car Charters on: • Cumbres […]

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2026 Trains tour of Switzerland announced

Train with red passenger cars on curving stone bridge leading to tunnel

Join Trains Magazine June 8-20, 2026 for an unforgettable rail tour of the magic and wonder of Switzerland’s mountains and railways. Organized by our tour partner, Special Interest Tours, this 11-night, 12-day adventure includes: Rail excursions include: Bernina Express Gotthard Panorama Express Furka steam train Oberwald-Realp Gornergrat excursion by rail Excursion to Rochers-de-Naye by rail […]

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Durango & Silverton resumes full-route excursions

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad logo

DURANGO, Colo. — The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge has resumed trips to Silverton following repairs to flood-damaged tracks. The Durango Herald reports excursions over the full length over the 45.4-mile route resumed on Saturday (Oct. 18) after several days of abbreviated trips to Cascade Canyon, about 26 miles. Trips to Silverton had been suspended […]

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Durango & Silverton operations suspended by flooding

Water running over narrow-gauge rail line

DURANGO, Colo. — Operation of the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has been suspended because of flooding caused by recent record rainfall, but is expected to resume “shortly,” the railroad said. “We appreciate the understanding of guests who have been affected by service interruptions,” the D&SNG said in a Facebook post, “and plan to […]

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Young Guns in Preservation: Anderson Pries

Young individual looking out from the control stand of a trolley

Any amount of assistance can make a sizable impact for any museum, tourist railroad or organization, no matter where that help is coming from. A prime example is Anderson Pries, who volunteers at the Fox River Trolley Museum in South Elgin, Ill. The 15-year-old serves as a collector, who assists the conductor during trolley rides, […]

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