The Historic
Niles Canyon Railway runs from Sunol to Niles and back, offering
departures and arrivals from both towns on most Sundays throughout
the year. April and May, the trains run more often for the "Wild
Flower" specials.
The trip
takes about half an hour and takes you on a journey through
Niles Canyon. Round trip plan on spending about two hours total.
The Pacific Locomotive Association has railroad equipment on
display and alternates between steam and diesel locomotives
on the Sunday runs.
During the
the year special events are held including Kids' Summer Fun
Train, Wine Tasting Special and the Train of Lights. You can
also rent a train or rail bus for special occasions. The gift
shop offers hats, tee-shirts, coffee mugs and other railroad
gift items. This trip back in time is fun and educational for
the whole family.
The Niles Canyon Railway operates along a portion of the First
Transcontinental Railroad constructed in the 1860s. The rail
line through Niles Canyon was amongst the earliest to be built
in California and provided the first rail connection between
San Francisco Bay and the nation.
When built, the rail line through Niles Canyon was the primary
route for overland traffic to and from the San Francisco Bay.
A shorter rail line between Oakland and Sacramento was established
via the California Pacific Railroad and Benicia by 1879. As
a result, the original line became less used due to its longer
route and its steep grade over Livermore Pass.
The Pacific Locomotive Association leased the right of way from
the county and began working to reconstruct the track in 1987.
The Niles Canyon Railway ran its first passenger train from
Sunol in 1988.