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Now Boarding!
Discover the Trains of Washington State
By Teresa Nordheim
Mount Rainer Scenic RailroadThe train departs from Elbe, Wash. This incredible trip through the foothills of Mt. Rainer will leave you breathless. Step back in time as the mighty steam engine chugs across spectacular bridges, through lush tall forests, past the majestic Mt. Rainer and by sparkling Mineral Lake. Vintage steam locomotives pull all the trains. The entire journey takes roughly one hour and 30 minutes.
Year-round events keep this train on track. You can enjoy a "sweethearts special" in February, Easter "Eggs-press" Egg Hunt in March, a Mother's Day Tea in May and a Father's Day Barbecue Train in June. In December, ride the Snowball Express. Santa and his helpers will keep you company on this trip. On the Christmas Tree Excursion, enjoy a steam engine ride to pick the perfect tree from Windy Knoll Tree Farm. As one of the top growers in the nation, Windy Knoll Tree Farm has supplied Christmas trees for the White House!
Their Web site, www.mrsr.com, includes photos, schedules, fares and information about their dinner train ride.
This museum has artifacts and train memorabilia that fill the building in Snoqualmie, Wash. Children can watch model trains, peek into the past as they explore antique railroad equipment, explore old retired train engines and walk through a kitchen train.
My first visit to the museum took place when Thomas The Tank Engine visited the station. Thomas makes yearly visits to the museum. Shake hands with Sir Toppem Hatt as you enjoy a train ride through the countryside with Thomas leading the way.