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Choo-Choo! 10 Train Adventures for Seattle-Area Kids and Families

Free mini train rides, historic excursions, urban rail adventures and more

Nancy Chaney
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Published on: June 01, 2023

Choo-Choo! 10 Train Adventures for Seattle-Area Kids and Families

Riding a small train at Great Northern & Cascade Railway in Skykomish, Washington, best train rides for Seattle families
Photo:
Great Northern & Cascade Railway

3. Great Northern & Cascade Railway, Skykomish

For another super-fun mini-train ride, head east to the historic railroad town of Skykomish on scenic Highway 2. There, catch a ride on the scale Great Northern & Cascade Railway. The riverside town of Skykomish is working to restore its vintage train depot and revive its position as an important railroad waypoint. The mini tracks wind their way around the old train yard; hop aboard one of the mini-trains on weekends, May through October. Volunteers running the trains are friendly and helpful. There is also a museum, visitor center and gift shop with varying hours, see the website for details. Visit the Facebook page for more info and daily status.

Getting there: Skykomish is about a 1.5-hour drive northeast of Seattle.

Ride and cost: Rides are given on Saturdays and Sundays, May through October. Rides are free; donations are appreciated.

To visit nearby: There are great hikes accessible along Highway 2, and Skykomish is on the way to Leavenworth, Washington’s hot spot for Bavarian-themed family fun.

Next up: Chehalis-Centralia Railroad

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