Train Excursions
Catch the Ride of a Lifetime
V&T Railway is the only way to turn bedtime stories into real-life adventures — moments into lifelong memories.
Each excursion welcomes you aboard to discover Nevada’s landscapes, towns, and past in a way that fits your pace:
- Short Line: A quick ride from Virginia City to Gold Hill, ideal for people who are short on time but hungry for adventure. This excursion is provided by The Virginia Truckee Railroad Co.
- Long Line: A full-day adventure from Carson City to Virginia City, weaving through mountains and canyons, with a 3.5-hour stop to shop, dine, and explore this old mining town.
- Seasonal & Themed Experiences: Themed excursions, like The Polar Express™ and other specialty rides, bring together storytelling, delicious treats, and memory-making fuel.
Steam or diesel locomotives power these excursions, creating a distinct rhythm and character. The wonder you experience while riding will linger far beyond the tracks.
Understanding the Differences Between V&T Railway, Nevada State Railroad Museum, & Virginia Truckee Railroad Co.
Though all connected by Nevada’s rail legacy, each of the following organizations is independently owned and operated, offering a unique way to experience the state’s railroad history:
- V&T Railway delivers scenic excursions between Carson City and Virginia City, blending breathtaking views with rich stories on preserved trains.
- The Nevada Railroad Museum showcases historic trains and exhibits, diving into the engineering marvels of Nevada’s railroad past. If you’re interested in visiting, please go directly to the museum’s website to purchase tickets.
- The Virginia Truckee Railroad Co. is the historical predecessor to V&T Railway, offering a 35-minute ride on the short line from Virginia City to Gold Hill. Visit this site to buy tickets for this excursion.
Long Line Excursions
Let the V&T Railway take you on an adventure through history and stunning landscapes. Meld your story with those of miners, pioneers, and passengers of the past, while traveling in style through one of Nevada’s most iconic destinations.
Steam Train | Round Trip
Carson City to Virginia City
Take a 24-mile roundtrip journey through the Comstock on a restored steam locomotive. Enjoy a 3.5-hour stop in Virginia City to explore shops, saloons, and Old West history.
Diesel Train | Round Trip
Carson City to Virginia City
Ride the rails on a classic diesel train through canyon curves and rugged mountains. Wander around Virginia City for 3.5 hours before heading back.
Seasonal Excursions, Timeless Memories
From bubbly mimosas to silver bells, our themed rides bring a little extra magic to the rails. These special excursions fill the rails with laughter, stories, and the perfect photo ops. Tickets go fast, so grab them while you can!
Mother’s Day Train
Treat Mom to a springtime journey through Nevada’s wild beauty. Sip mimosas, savor fresh pastries, and surprise her with a long-stem rose — all while riding on a classic rail adventure. Plan to arrive a bit early to enjoy your drinks and snacks before departure.
- Run Dates: Mother’s Day Weekend only
- Duration: 6.25 Hours
Father's Day Train
Honor Dad with a laid-back rail escape through Nevada's rugged beauty. Enjoy signature Bloody Marys, savory morning snacks and time together - the perfect Father's Day on the V&T Railway. Come a bit early to enjoy your drink and bites before the train pulls out.
- Run dates: Father's Day Weekend only.
- Duration: 6.25 Hours
Toast of the Canyon - Wine Trains
Hop aboard this scenic evening ride through Carson River Canyon — designed for date nights and group hangs. Sip chilled white wine upon boarding and throughout the journey, snack on small bites, and take in stunning photo ops, then enjoy a final taste of red back at the depot.
- Run Dates: July 25, 2026 - September 19, 2026 - October 10, 2026
- Duration: 45 Minutes
Toast of the Canyon - Beer Train
Hop aboard this laid-back evening run through Carson River Canyon - perfect for date nights and friends' night out. Raise a cold craft beer, snack on savory bites, and capture unforgettable canyon views.
- Run Date: August 29, 2026
- Duration: 45 Minutes
The Polar Express™
Bring the holiday classic to life aboard a real train! Cozy up in pajamas, sip hot cocoa, nibble on treats, and watch your kids’ faces light up as Santa boards at the North Pole to deliver the first gift of Christmas. It’s a magical family experience you’ll talk about for years.
- Run Dates: Thursday through Sunday, November - December
- Duration: 1 Hour
Know Before You Go
A smooth ride starts with our planning tips! We’ve covered the essentials: parking, ticketing, arrival tips, what to bring, and more. It’s your one-stop guide to feeling prepared and getting the most out of your time on the rails.
Nevada’s Railway of Legends
This isn’t just a ride — it’s a living piece of Nevada’s past. And its history is just as remarkable as the excursions themselves.
During your visit, you’ll discover how V&T Railway championed the silver and gold booms, connected key towns, and survived over 150 years of change.
