The Ultimate 2026 USA Railfan Calendar: Steam Excursions & Photo Charters
The 2026 season is the most significant year for American steam in decades. From the historic coast-to-coast tour of Big Boy #4014 to the USA 250th celebrations, we’ve curated the definitive guide to every mainline excursion, exclusive photo charter, and heritage rail event across the country. Don't just watch history—be there to capture it.
While this calendar highlights unique or special events, many scenic railroads, railway museums, and theme parks operate steam on regular excursions throughout the year.
For more information on ongoing operations, check out Steam by State and Theme Park Steam.
Note: All dates and event details are provided for informational purposes only — schedules can change, so be sure to confirm with each railroad or event organizer before making plans.
While this calendar highlights unique or special events, many scenic railroads, railway museums, and theme parks operate steam on regular excursions throughout the year.
For more information on ongoing operations, check out Steam by State and Theme Park Steam.
Note: All dates and event details are provided for informational purposes only — schedules can change, so be sure to confirm with each railroad or event organizer before making plans.
What's New
Calendar Last Updated: June 3, 2026
May 2026
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May 1: Narrow Gauge Day with Galloping Goose #5 at Durango & Silverton
Galloping Goose #5 offers short rides to the event park. Unique Equipment will be on display. Free food and entertainment at the depot. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - Durango, Colorado More information - durangotrain.com/events/rio-grande-southern-galloping-goose-5-excursions/ May 2 & 9: Galloping Goose #5 to Silverton Operating the entire route from Durango to Silverton Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - Durango, Colorado More information - durangotrain.com/events/rio-grande-southern-galloping-goose-5-excursions/ May 1-3: Friends of East Broad Top Reunion Special Excursions, Tours, and Events throughout the 3-day Reunion of the Friends of the East Broad Top. Morning steam powered freight train, north and south bound steam excursions, rides on historic rail cars and more. East Broad Top Railroad, Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania. For more information: eastbroadtop.com/events/fall-reunion/ May 2-3: Titans of Logging Photography Weekend at Cass Two day event featuring photo opportunities with a variety of geared steam locomotives. More details TBA. Cass, West Virginia. For more information: mountainrailwv.com/train-rides/titans-of-logging/ May 3: Reading FP7 Freight Train Photo Charter with Brodie Photography Full day photo charter featuring Reading FP7's #902 & #903 leading a freight train and covering the entire line. Woodstown Central Railroad, Woodstown, New Jersey For more information: ticketstripe.com/events/8533108405326180 May 9, 23, & 30: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley -UPDATE - May 9 will still operate but with Diesel as motive power- Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA. Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee. For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/ May 9-10: National Train Day at Railroad Heritage Center in Portland A 2-day celebration of trains with steam train rides behind Polson #2 (Baldwin 2-8-2). The SP&S #700 will be under steam and Daylight #4449 will be on display outside in the yard, and there will also be turntable demonstrations and model railroad displays. Oregon Rail Heritage Center - Portland, Oregon For more information: orhf.org/blog/national-train-day-returns-may-9-10-2026/ May 16 & 30: Lake Placid Limited on the Sugar Express Full-Day excursion from Clewiston to Lake Placid - Diesel powered northbound - Steam Locomotive #148 leads the southbound return. Sugar Express - Clewiston, Florida For more information: sugarexpress.com/lake-placid-limited/ May 16: Photo Freight with Jeddo Coal 0-4-0 Steam Locomotive #85 at Kentucky Railway Museum Grammling Locomotive #85 "Mack" will pull a freight train photography special from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM with night photos afterwards. Kentucky Railway Museum - New Haven, Kentucky For more information: kyrail.org/train-rides/43/ May 16-17: Full Steam Ahead at Kentucky Railway Museum Grammling Locomotive Jeddo Coal #85 "Mack," a coal burning 0-4-0 tank engine will be visiting the museum and offering train rides. Kentucky Railway Museum - New Haven, Kentucky For more information: kyrail.org/train-rides/41/ May 16-17, 2026: Cripple Creek Reunion at Colorado Crossings Event The annual two-day rail enthusiast event, "Colorado Crossings," will feature the reunion of two operational steam locomotives originally built for the Florence & Cripple Creek Railroad: Rio Grande Southern #20 and visiting Denver & Rio Grande #315. Colorado Railroad Museum - Golden, Colorado More information TBA: coloradorailroadmuseum.org/colorado-crossings/ May 23, 2026: North Shore Line Night Photography Chicago North Shore & Milwaukee Interurban cars professionally lit for night time photos. East Troy Railroad Museum - East Troy, Wisconsin More information - www.easttroyrr.org/night-photo-shoot.html May 23-24: Steam and Streamliner Weekend at Monticello Railway Museum Two day event featuring steam locomotive 401 pulling one train, and a streamlined diesel pulling another. Day passes allow you to ride both trains throughout the day and food vendors will also be on site. Monticello Railway Museum - Monticello, Illinois More information: www.mrym.org/steam-and-streamline-r-weekend May 28 - July 29:Union Pacific Big Boy #4014 Eastern Portion of Coast to Coast National Tour Union Pacific Big Boy Steam Locomotive #4014 and historic passenger cars depart Cheyenne, Wyoming for Pennsylvania to begin eastern portion of a national tour. See detailed calendar on Mainline Steam Page. |
June 2026
June 5 & 6: D&RG #340 to Cascade Canyon on the Durango & Silverton
Denver & Rio Grande Steam Locomotive #340 has just completed a major restoration and will be returning to Knott's Berry Farm after this excursion. This is a rare opportunity to ride behind this historic 1881 built Baldwin 2-8-0 on her home rails.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge - Durango, Colorado
More information: durangotrain.com/excursions/locomotive-340/
June 7: D&RG #340 Photo Special on the Durango & Silverton
Denver & Rio Grande #340 will pull a mixed freight and passenger consist on this all-day photography special.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge - Durango, Colorado
More information: durangotrain.com/excursions/locomotive-340/
June 5-7 & 12-13: Steam in the Valley with Nickel Plate #765
2 Hour 45 min. Excursions on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad departing from Rockside Depot in Independence, Ohio.
Photo-Runby is planned as part of the excursions.
More information: www.cvsr.org/excursions/steam-in-the-valley/steam-in-the-valley
June 6 & 20: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
June 12-14 & 19-21: Summer of Steam with N&W #611 in Virginia
Norfolk & Western J Class #611 leads a 40-mile round trip ride from Staunton.
Virginia Scenic Railway - Staunton, Virginia
For more information: www.virginiascenicrailway.com/rides/summer-of-steam/
June 13-14: 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 with Reading & Blue Mountain #2102 & Union Pacific #4014
#2102 Leads excursion from Nesquehoning Regional Railroad Station - Pittston PA and return.
Photo opportunities from on-board - train will pass and meet Big Boy #4014
More information: www.rbmnrr-passenger.com/semiquincentennial
June 14: Union Pacific "Big Boy" #4014 - Public Excursion on the Reading & Blue Mountain Railroad in Pennsylvania
Nesquehoning, PA to Pittston, PA - this excursion will pass Ready & Blue Mountain #2102 which will also be operating an excursion.
Tickets will be available through the Union Pacific Railroad Museum
More information: www.uptraintix.org/
June 15-30: Big Boy Reunion at Steamtown in Scranton, Pennsylvania
Big Boy #4014 will be on display at Steamtown next to Big Boy #4012 - the rare chance to see 2 Big Boys on display together!
www.nps.gov/stea/planyourvisit/big-boy-reunion-at-steamtown-2026.htm
June 16-17: Sumpter Valley Railroad 50th Anniversary Photo Charter with Pete Lerro
During the 2-day charter, a mix of freight and passenger trains will be operated across the railroad, featuring several pieces of historic motive power.
The lineup is expected to feature SVRR Heisler No. 3. The railroad’s diesel locomotive, SVRR No. 720, will also appear during select scenes.
Sumpter Valley Railroad - Sumpter, Oregon
More information: www.sumptervalleyrailroad.org/schedules-and-fares.html
June 19 & 20: Tri-State Excursion departing Ohio with #765
All-day steam excursion led by Nickel Plate #765 traveling through Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan.
Indiana Rail Experience - Edon, Ohio
More information: www.indianarailexperience.org/tri-state-steam-excursion/
June 20: Parade of Steam at Cass Scenic Railroad
Annual Parade of Steam features the staging and runbys of a large collection of operating steam locomotives. Admission to the parade is free. Special Excursions including a double-header will also take place.
Cass Scenic Railroad - Cass, West Virgina
More information - mountainrailwv.com/train-rides/parade-of-steam/
June 21: Fox Lake Limited departing Indiana with #765
3-hour excursion led by Nickel Plate #765 from Indiana to Michigan.
Indiana Rail Experience - Pleasant Lake, Indiana
More information: www.indianarailexperience.org/fox-lake-limited/
June 22: Summer of Steam with N&W #611 Extended Excursion in Virginia
Norfolk & Western J Class #611 leads a 123-mile round trip ride from Staunton to Louisa.
Diesel-power for return.
Virginia Scenic Railway - Staunton, Virginia
For more information: www.virginiascenicrailway.com/rides/summer-of-steam/
June 26-28: Summer of Steam with N&W #611 in Virginia
Norfolk & Western J Class #611 leads a 40-mile round trip ride from Louisa.
Virginia Scenic Railway - Louisa, Virginia
For more information: www.virginiascenicrailway.com/rides/summer-of-steam/
June 27: Funders Day Special with Reading #2102
#2102 Leads excursion from Nesquehoning to Tunkhannock for the Founders Day Celebration in the town.
Reading & Northern Railroad - Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania
Tickets on sale and more information starting May 4th: www.rbmnrr-passenger.com
June 27, 28, & 29: Union Pacific Big Boy Photo Shoot with Pete Lerro
Night Photo shoot with Union Pacific Big Boy #4014 (operational) and #4012.
Steamtown - Scranton, Pennsylvania
For more information: lerrophotography.com/workshop/unionpacific2026/
Denver & Rio Grande Steam Locomotive #340 has just completed a major restoration and will be returning to Knott's Berry Farm after this excursion. This is a rare opportunity to ride behind this historic 1881 built Baldwin 2-8-0 on her home rails.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge - Durango, Colorado
More information: durangotrain.com/excursions/locomotive-340/
June 7: D&RG #340 Photo Special on the Durango & Silverton
Denver & Rio Grande #340 will pull a mixed freight and passenger consist on this all-day photography special.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge - Durango, Colorado
More information: durangotrain.com/excursions/locomotive-340/
June 5-7 & 12-13: Steam in the Valley with Nickel Plate #765
2 Hour 45 min. Excursions on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad departing from Rockside Depot in Independence, Ohio.
Photo-Runby is planned as part of the excursions.
More information: www.cvsr.org/excursions/steam-in-the-valley/steam-in-the-valley
June 6 & 20: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
June 12-14 & 19-21: Summer of Steam with N&W #611 in Virginia
Norfolk & Western J Class #611 leads a 40-mile round trip ride from Staunton.
Virginia Scenic Railway - Staunton, Virginia
For more information: www.virginiascenicrailway.com/rides/summer-of-steam/
June 13-14: 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 with Reading & Blue Mountain #2102 & Union Pacific #4014
#2102 Leads excursion from Nesquehoning Regional Railroad Station - Pittston PA and return.
Photo opportunities from on-board - train will pass and meet Big Boy #4014
More information: www.rbmnrr-passenger.com/semiquincentennial
June 14: Union Pacific "Big Boy" #4014 - Public Excursion on the Reading & Blue Mountain Railroad in Pennsylvania
Nesquehoning, PA to Pittston, PA - this excursion will pass Ready & Blue Mountain #2102 which will also be operating an excursion.
Tickets will be available through the Union Pacific Railroad Museum
More information: www.uptraintix.org/
June 15-30: Big Boy Reunion at Steamtown in Scranton, Pennsylvania
Big Boy #4014 will be on display at Steamtown next to Big Boy #4012 - the rare chance to see 2 Big Boys on display together!
www.nps.gov/stea/planyourvisit/big-boy-reunion-at-steamtown-2026.htm
June 16-17: Sumpter Valley Railroad 50th Anniversary Photo Charter with Pete Lerro
During the 2-day charter, a mix of freight and passenger trains will be operated across the railroad, featuring several pieces of historic motive power.
The lineup is expected to feature SVRR Heisler No. 3. The railroad’s diesel locomotive, SVRR No. 720, will also appear during select scenes.
Sumpter Valley Railroad - Sumpter, Oregon
More information: www.sumptervalleyrailroad.org/schedules-and-fares.html
June 19 & 20: Tri-State Excursion departing Ohio with #765
All-day steam excursion led by Nickel Plate #765 traveling through Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan.
Indiana Rail Experience - Edon, Ohio
More information: www.indianarailexperience.org/tri-state-steam-excursion/
June 20: Parade of Steam at Cass Scenic Railroad
Annual Parade of Steam features the staging and runbys of a large collection of operating steam locomotives. Admission to the parade is free. Special Excursions including a double-header will also take place.
Cass Scenic Railroad - Cass, West Virgina
More information - mountainrailwv.com/train-rides/parade-of-steam/
June 21: Fox Lake Limited departing Indiana with #765
3-hour excursion led by Nickel Plate #765 from Indiana to Michigan.
Indiana Rail Experience - Pleasant Lake, Indiana
More information: www.indianarailexperience.org/fox-lake-limited/
June 22: Summer of Steam with N&W #611 Extended Excursion in Virginia
Norfolk & Western J Class #611 leads a 123-mile round trip ride from Staunton to Louisa.
Diesel-power for return.
Virginia Scenic Railway - Staunton, Virginia
For more information: www.virginiascenicrailway.com/rides/summer-of-steam/
June 26-28: Summer of Steam with N&W #611 in Virginia
Norfolk & Western J Class #611 leads a 40-mile round trip ride from Louisa.
Virginia Scenic Railway - Louisa, Virginia
For more information: www.virginiascenicrailway.com/rides/summer-of-steam/
June 27: Funders Day Special with Reading #2102
#2102 Leads excursion from Nesquehoning to Tunkhannock for the Founders Day Celebration in the town.
Reading & Northern Railroad - Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania
Tickets on sale and more information starting May 4th: www.rbmnrr-passenger.com
June 27, 28, & 29: Union Pacific Big Boy Photo Shoot with Pete Lerro
Night Photo shoot with Union Pacific Big Boy #4014 (operational) and #4012.
Steamtown - Scranton, Pennsylvania
For more information: lerrophotography.com/workshop/unionpacific2026/
July 2026
July 1: 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 with Reading & Blue Mountain #2102 & Union Pacific #4014
#2102 Leads excursion from Nesquehoning Regional Railroad Station - Pittston PA and return.
Photo opportunities from on-board as train passes Big Boy #4014
More details coming soon - Tickets will be on sail at - www.rbmnrr-passenger.com/
July 2: 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 with Reading & Blue Mountain Diesels & Union Pacific #4014
Special Painted Diesels Leadsexcursion from Nesquehoning Regional Railroad Station - Pittston PA and return.
Photo opportunities from on-board as train passes Big Boy #4014
More details coming soon - Tickets will be on sail at - www.rbmnrr-passenger.com/
July 3-5: Summer of Steam with N&W #611 in Virginia
Norfolk & Western J Class #611 leads a 40-mile round trip ride from Louisa.
Virginia Scenic Railway - Louisa, Virginia
For more information: www.virginiascenicrailway.com/rides/summer-of-steam/
July 4 & 18: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
July 4: 250th Independence Day Special Steam Excursion with Reading #2102
#2102 leads excursion from Reading Outer Station to Jim Thorpe.
Reading & Northern Railroad - Reading, Pennsylvania
Tickets on sale and more information starting May 4th: www.rbmnrr-passenger.com/
July 5: Indiana Ice Cream train with #765 in Indiana
1-hour train rides with free ice cream led by Nickel Plate #765
Indiana Rail Experience - Angola, Indiana
For more information: www.indianarailexperience.org/ice-cream-train/
July 17-19: USA 250th Hiawatha Weekend Roundtrip with Milwaukee Road #261
Roundtrip Weekend excursion powered by Milwaukee Road Steam Locomotive #261.
Departing from Chanhassen, MN on Friday July 17 and traveling to Montevideo, MN where passengers can spend the weekend.
Return on Sunday July 19th. Photo run-bys are planned and the train features a variety of historic equipment.
Friends of the 261 - Departing from Chanhassen, Minnesota
More information: 261.com/excursions/usa-250/
July 18: USA 250th Hiawatha Saturday Excursions with Milwaukee Road #261
1.5 hour and 2 hour roundtrip excursions are offered departing from Montevideo, MN.
Friends of the 261 - Departing from Montevideo, Minnesota
More information: 261.com/excursions/usa-250/
June 19-20: Steam to Victory Event at Age of Steam
World War II vehicles, static railroad displays, and reenactors along with short train rides and roundhouse tours during this 2 day event.
Age of Steam Roundhouse - Sugarcreek, Ohio
More information: ageofsteamroundhouse.org/blog/steam-to-victory/
July 31: Centennial State Limited at Cumbres & Toltec
Steam Locomotive #168 leads a special excursion from Antonito to Big Horn and return to celebrate the 150th year of Colorado as a State and the 250th year of the USA.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - Antonito, Colorado
More information: cumbrestoltec.com/unique-rail-experiences/the-centennial-state-limited-a-colorado-150-journey/
#2102 Leads excursion from Nesquehoning Regional Railroad Station - Pittston PA and return.
Photo opportunities from on-board as train passes Big Boy #4014
More details coming soon - Tickets will be on sail at - www.rbmnrr-passenger.com/
July 2: 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 with Reading & Blue Mountain Diesels & Union Pacific #4014
Special Painted Diesels Leadsexcursion from Nesquehoning Regional Railroad Station - Pittston PA and return.
Photo opportunities from on-board as train passes Big Boy #4014
More details coming soon - Tickets will be on sail at - www.rbmnrr-passenger.com/
July 3-5: Summer of Steam with N&W #611 in Virginia
Norfolk & Western J Class #611 leads a 40-mile round trip ride from Louisa.
Virginia Scenic Railway - Louisa, Virginia
For more information: www.virginiascenicrailway.com/rides/summer-of-steam/
July 4 & 18: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
July 4: 250th Independence Day Special Steam Excursion with Reading #2102
#2102 leads excursion from Reading Outer Station to Jim Thorpe.
Reading & Northern Railroad - Reading, Pennsylvania
Tickets on sale and more information starting May 4th: www.rbmnrr-passenger.com/
July 5: Indiana Ice Cream train with #765 in Indiana
1-hour train rides with free ice cream led by Nickel Plate #765
Indiana Rail Experience - Angola, Indiana
For more information: www.indianarailexperience.org/ice-cream-train/
July 17-19: USA 250th Hiawatha Weekend Roundtrip with Milwaukee Road #261
Roundtrip Weekend excursion powered by Milwaukee Road Steam Locomotive #261.
Departing from Chanhassen, MN on Friday July 17 and traveling to Montevideo, MN where passengers can spend the weekend.
Return on Sunday July 19th. Photo run-bys are planned and the train features a variety of historic equipment.
Friends of the 261 - Departing from Chanhassen, Minnesota
More information: 261.com/excursions/usa-250/
July 18: USA 250th Hiawatha Saturday Excursions with Milwaukee Road #261
1.5 hour and 2 hour roundtrip excursions are offered departing from Montevideo, MN.
Friends of the 261 - Departing from Montevideo, Minnesota
More information: 261.com/excursions/usa-250/
June 19-20: Steam to Victory Event at Age of Steam
World War II vehicles, static railroad displays, and reenactors along with short train rides and roundhouse tours during this 2 day event.
Age of Steam Roundhouse - Sugarcreek, Ohio
More information: ageofsteamroundhouse.org/blog/steam-to-victory/
July 31: Centennial State Limited at Cumbres & Toltec
Steam Locomotive #168 leads a special excursion from Antonito to Big Horn and return to celebrate the 150th year of Colorado as a State and the 250th year of the USA.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - Antonito, Colorado
More information: cumbrestoltec.com/unique-rail-experiences/the-centennial-state-limited-a-colorado-150-journey/
August 2026
August 1: Centennial State Limited Double-Header at Cumbres & Toltec
Steam Locomotive #168 and 463 lead a special double-head excursion from Antonito to Big Horn and return to celebrate the 150th year of Colorado as a State and the 250th year of the USA.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - Antonito, Colorado
More information: cumbrestoltec.com/unique-rail-experiences/the-centennial-state-limited-a-colorado-150-journey/
August 1 & 15: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
August 2: Centennial State Limited at Cumbres & Toltec
Steam Locomotive #168 leads a special excursion from Antonito to Osier for lunch and then return to celebrate the 150th year of Colorado as a State and the 250th year of the USA.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - Antonito, Colorado
More information: cumbrestoltec.com/unique-rail-experiences/the-centennial-state-limited-a-colorado-150-journey/
August 22: Tomato Festival Special Steam Excursion with Reading #2102
#2102 leads excursion from Nesquehoning to Pittston for the annual Tomato festival.
Reading & Northern Railroad - Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania
Tickets on sale and more information starting May 4th: www.rbmnrr-passenger.com/
Steam Locomotive #168 and 463 lead a special double-head excursion from Antonito to Big Horn and return to celebrate the 150th year of Colorado as a State and the 250th year of the USA.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - Antonito, Colorado
More information: cumbrestoltec.com/unique-rail-experiences/the-centennial-state-limited-a-colorado-150-journey/
August 1 & 15: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
August 2: Centennial State Limited at Cumbres & Toltec
Steam Locomotive #168 leads a special excursion from Antonito to Osier for lunch and then return to celebrate the 150th year of Colorado as a State and the 250th year of the USA.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - Antonito, Colorado
More information: cumbrestoltec.com/unique-rail-experiences/the-centennial-state-limited-a-colorado-150-journey/
August 22: Tomato Festival Special Steam Excursion with Reading #2102
#2102 leads excursion from Nesquehoning to Pittston for the annual Tomato festival.
Reading & Northern Railroad - Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania
Tickets on sale and more information starting May 4th: www.rbmnrr-passenger.com/
September 2026
September 1: Hoosier Tour with #765 in Indiana
Classic Automobile Staging and Photography with the #765 followed by a 2.5 excursion.
Indian Rail Experience - Pleasant Lake, Indiana
More information: www.indianarailexperience.org/hoosier-tour/
September 4, 5, & 6: Rolling Victory WWII Weekend with #765 in Indiana
WWII Reenactments, Live Entertainment and Steam Train Rides offered with Nickel Plate #765
Indiana Rail Experience - Angola, Indiana
More information: www.indianarailexperience.org/rolling-victory/
September 5, 12, & 19: Galloping Goose #5 to Silverton
Operating the entire route from Durango to Silverton
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - Durango, Colorado
More information - durangotrain.com/events/rio-grande-southern-galloping-goose-5-excursions/
September 5 & 26: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
September 18-20: Maryland Railfest and Fireball Photo Experience
Annual festival featuring 3 days of train excursions with both steam and diesel and a featured "Fireball Photo Experience" evening photo special featuring C&O Steam locomotive #1309.
Western Maryland Scenic Railroad - Cumberland, Maryland
More information - wmsr.com/marylandrailfest
September 19-20: Summer Steam Train at LM&M Railroad in Ohio
Grammling Locomotive Jeddo Coal #85, a coal burning, 0-4-0 steam locomotive will be visiting and leading train rides.
Lebanon Mason & Monroe Railroad - Lebanon, Ohio
More information - lebanonrr.com/train-rides/summer-steam-train/
September 25-26: Fall Steam Festival at Age of Steam
Two day festival featuring a mix of steam tractors, vintage baseball, and steam trains. Short steam train rides and roundhouse tours will be offered along with the special events and entertainment.
Age of Steam Roundhouse - Sugarcreek, Ohio
More information - ageofsteamroundhouse.org/blog/fall_steam_festival/
September 25: Midwest Electric Railway with Dak Dillon Photography
Afternoon and evening streetcar photography with historic trolleys and interurbans operating.
Midwest Electric Railway - Mount Pleasant, Iowa
More information: steamcharters.com/
September 26-27: Midwest Central Railroad Special with Dak Dillon Photography
Baldwin 2-6-0 #6 and West Side Lumber Shay #9 will both be under steam and operating with freight and passenger consists.
Midwest Central Railroad - Mount Pleasant, Iowa
More Information: steamcharters.com/midwest-central-railroad/
September 26-27: Santa Fe 2926 on Public Display - New Mexico Railroad Days
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Details TBA - More information: 2926.us/
Classic Automobile Staging and Photography with the #765 followed by a 2.5 excursion.
Indian Rail Experience - Pleasant Lake, Indiana
More information: www.indianarailexperience.org/hoosier-tour/
September 4, 5, & 6: Rolling Victory WWII Weekend with #765 in Indiana
WWII Reenactments, Live Entertainment and Steam Train Rides offered with Nickel Plate #765
Indiana Rail Experience - Angola, Indiana
More information: www.indianarailexperience.org/rolling-victory/
September 5, 12, & 19: Galloping Goose #5 to Silverton
Operating the entire route from Durango to Silverton
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - Durango, Colorado
More information - durangotrain.com/events/rio-grande-southern-galloping-goose-5-excursions/
September 5 & 26: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
September 18-20: Maryland Railfest and Fireball Photo Experience
Annual festival featuring 3 days of train excursions with both steam and diesel and a featured "Fireball Photo Experience" evening photo special featuring C&O Steam locomotive #1309.
Western Maryland Scenic Railroad - Cumberland, Maryland
More information - wmsr.com/marylandrailfest
September 19-20: Summer Steam Train at LM&M Railroad in Ohio
Grammling Locomotive Jeddo Coal #85, a coal burning, 0-4-0 steam locomotive will be visiting and leading train rides.
Lebanon Mason & Monroe Railroad - Lebanon, Ohio
More information - lebanonrr.com/train-rides/summer-steam-train/
September 25-26: Fall Steam Festival at Age of Steam
Two day festival featuring a mix of steam tractors, vintage baseball, and steam trains. Short steam train rides and roundhouse tours will be offered along with the special events and entertainment.
Age of Steam Roundhouse - Sugarcreek, Ohio
More information - ageofsteamroundhouse.org/blog/fall_steam_festival/
September 25: Midwest Electric Railway with Dak Dillon Photography
Afternoon and evening streetcar photography with historic trolleys and interurbans operating.
Midwest Electric Railway - Mount Pleasant, Iowa
More information: steamcharters.com/
September 26-27: Midwest Central Railroad Special with Dak Dillon Photography
Baldwin 2-6-0 #6 and West Side Lumber Shay #9 will both be under steam and operating with freight and passenger consists.
Midwest Central Railroad - Mount Pleasant, Iowa
More Information: steamcharters.com/midwest-central-railroad/
September 26-27: Santa Fe 2926 on Public Display - New Mexico Railroad Days
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Details TBA - More information: 2926.us/
October 2026
October 3, 10, 11, 17, 18 & 31: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
October 5-6: East Broad Top Fall Photographers special with Brodie Photography
East Broad Top Steam Narrow Gauge Steam Locomotive #16 will pull a freight train consist of coal cars on a 2-day photo charter.
East Broad Top Railroad - Rockhill, Pennsylvania
More information - Click Here
October 15-16: WW&F Photographers special with Dak Dillon Photography
Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington 24" narrow-gauge Steam Locomotive #9 will lead a mixed train with autumn leaves as the background. Night photo shoot will also take place. - Alna, Maine
For more information: steamcharters.com/wwf-railway-photo-charter/
October 16-18:Fall Colors Steam Train with #765 in Indiana
Pleasant Lake, Indiana to Hillsdale, Michigan and return - an all-day steam powered excursion with Nickel Plate #765
Indiana Rail Experience - Pleasant Lake, Indiana
More information: www.indianarailexperience.org/fall-color-steam/
October 23-25: Santa Fe #2926 Mainline Photo Charter with Pete Lerro
Santa Fe #2926 operates on the mainline owned by the New Mexico Department of Transportation (this is where the "Rail Runner" operates) with a fleet of stainless steel coaches and baggage cars for this special photo charter - Albuquerque, New Mexico.
For more information: www.lerrophotography.com/santa-fe-2926-photo-charter/
October 27-28: Cumbres & Toltec Photo Charter with Pete Lerro
Day 1 - A re-lettered Rio Grande 2-8-2 K-36 leads a mixed train from Chama, New Mexico.
Day 2 - Re-lettered D&RG #425 (aka #315) leads a mixed train from Antonito, Colorado.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado.
For more information: www.lerrophotography.com/
October 30 - November 1: Santa Fe #2926 Mainline Photo Charter with Pete Lerro
Santa Fe #2926 operates on the mainline owned by the New Mexico Department of Transportation (this is where the "Rail Runner" operates) with a fleet of stainless steel coaches and baggage cars for this special photo charter - Albuquerque, New Mexico.
For more information: www.lerrophotography.com/santa-fe-2926-photo-charter/
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
October 5-6: East Broad Top Fall Photographers special with Brodie Photography
East Broad Top Steam Narrow Gauge Steam Locomotive #16 will pull a freight train consist of coal cars on a 2-day photo charter.
East Broad Top Railroad - Rockhill, Pennsylvania
More information - Click Here
October 15-16: WW&F Photographers special with Dak Dillon Photography
Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington 24" narrow-gauge Steam Locomotive #9 will lead a mixed train with autumn leaves as the background. Night photo shoot will also take place. - Alna, Maine
For more information: steamcharters.com/wwf-railway-photo-charter/
October 16-18:Fall Colors Steam Train with #765 in Indiana
Pleasant Lake, Indiana to Hillsdale, Michigan and return - an all-day steam powered excursion with Nickel Plate #765
Indiana Rail Experience - Pleasant Lake, Indiana
More information: www.indianarailexperience.org/fall-color-steam/
October 23-25: Santa Fe #2926 Mainline Photo Charter with Pete Lerro
Santa Fe #2926 operates on the mainline owned by the New Mexico Department of Transportation (this is where the "Rail Runner" operates) with a fleet of stainless steel coaches and baggage cars for this special photo charter - Albuquerque, New Mexico.
For more information: www.lerrophotography.com/santa-fe-2926-photo-charter/
October 27-28: Cumbres & Toltec Photo Charter with Pete Lerro
Day 1 - A re-lettered Rio Grande 2-8-2 K-36 leads a mixed train from Chama, New Mexico.
Day 2 - Re-lettered D&RG #425 (aka #315) leads a mixed train from Antonito, Colorado.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado.
For more information: www.lerrophotography.com/
October 30 - November 1: Santa Fe #2926 Mainline Photo Charter with Pete Lerro
Santa Fe #2926 operates on the mainline owned by the New Mexico Department of Transportation (this is where the "Rail Runner" operates) with a fleet of stainless steel coaches and baggage cars for this special photo charter - Albuquerque, New Mexico.
For more information: www.lerrophotography.com/santa-fe-2926-photo-charter/
November 2026
November 7 & 8: Summerville Steam Special at Tennessee Valley
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
November 10-11: "Boston & Maine #1397" with Dynamo Productions
Former Canadian National #89 will be undergoing a cosmetic overhaul to represent B&M #1397 for this photography special, which will feature both freight and passenger consists operating on the Strasburg Railroad - Strasburg, Pennsylvania.
For more information: www.dynamo-productions.com/coming-soon-03-2
Southern Steam Locomotive #4501 leads a full day excursion from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA.
Tennessee Valley Railroad - Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information: www.tvrail.com/train-rides/summerville-steam-special/
November 10-11: "Boston & Maine #1397" with Dynamo Productions
Former Canadian National #89 will be undergoing a cosmetic overhaul to represent B&M #1397 for this photography special, which will feature both freight and passenger consists operating on the Strasburg Railroad - Strasburg, Pennsylvania.
For more information: www.dynamo-productions.com/coming-soon-03-2
