The railroad is a deep part of Washington’s history and has played a pivotal role in the transportation of goods from the mountains down into the Puget Sound. Railroads connected Monte Cristo, Snohomish and Lake Stevens to Everett and then the greater Seattle area but not all of these trains have faded into the background.
Instead of carrying precious cargo and goods, these historic work horses now carry passengers on scenic tours that is an experience straight of the past. The Spirit of Washington – Dinner Train was the most popular train ride in Washington and departed from Tacoma’s Historic Freighthouse Square onward towards Mount Rainier while passing through Frederickson, Graham and arriving at Lake Kapowsin. Unfortunately, as of Oct 29, 2007 the Spirit of Washington Dinner train no longer provides rides.
That is not the only ride available. In the city of Snoqualmie, home of the Northwest Railway Museum, there are train rides all through the spring and summer and last weekend there was a celebrity appearance by Thomas the Train. Popular with today’s kids, Thomas brought an opportunity for children to ride a icon while playing with hands on trains exhibits. The city was filled with families, picnic goers and most of all…fun.
The Northwest Railway Museum also has rides all summer long as well as special events around Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. This gives the museum to share the experience and teach the historic importance of railways with Washington residents and visitors.
In the southern part of Washington, Chehalis-Centralia Railroad and Museum offer regular rides, Mystery Train rides, special events and even pumpkin rides. Unfortunately, last years flood season damaged part of the tracks and the railroad and museum had to cancel the dinner train schedule.
So get out this summer can get some more good family fun in.
Other Train Destination in Washington
– Chelatchie Prairie Railroad
– Lake Whatcom Railway
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3 Comments
I recently moved to Lake Stevens, Wa. Several times, especially around 1:30 a.m. and 2 a.m., I have heard a train. Two people I have talked to around here think I am crazy. Can anyone help me?
Hi Judith, I doubt you’re crazy or hearing things. More than likely you are hearing the trains that travel along the lines between Everett & Marysville. The train horns tend to travel quite a distance especially in the still of the night.
Judith, I live in Everett and those things wake me up a few times a week. The railroad crosses a barely used intersection downtown and then the tracks turn out toward the sound. I’ve complained to the council. They don’t care. What is REALLY loud is once and a while a Navy ship leaves Everett at night and for whatever reason, blasts a horn that shakes windows.