Table of Contents
Quick Facts
| Railroad Name | Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad |
| Website | https://bsvrr.com/wp/ |
| Train ride | Steam or diesel pulled train of heritage equipment through scenic Iowa. |
| Location | 225 10th Street, Boone, Iowa |
| Length of trip | 1.5 hour round trip |
| Cost of single ticket | $24.00 |
| Special Trains | Easter Bunny Express Dinner train Lunch train Barbecue Train Trolley rides |
Information/History
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad is a tourist railroad located in Boone, Iowa, in the heart of the Midwest. The railroad operates on a historic 11-mile branch line that runs through the scenic Des Moines River Valley, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the thrill of riding on a vintage steam or diesel locomotive while taking in the beautiful Iowa countryside.
History:
The railroad was founded in 1983 by a group of dedicated volunteers who wanted to preserve the rich railroad history of central Iowa. The track was originally laid by the Fort Dodge, Des Moines and Southern Railroad in the late 1800s and was later acquired by the Chicago and North Western Railway in 1901. The line remained in operation until 1977 when it was abandoned. In 1983, the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad was established, and with the help of many volunteers, the track was restored to operating condition.
Train Ride:
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad offers a variety of train rides throughout the year, including themed events like the popular “Pumpkin Express” in the fall and the “Santa Express” during the holiday season. The regular train rides include a 1.5-hour round trip to the small town of Fraser, Iowa, and a 2.5-hour round trip to the town of Wolf, Iowa. During the ride, passengers can enjoy the scenic views of the Des Moines River Valley and the historic towns along the way.
Local Attractions:
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad is located in a region rich with history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the nearby Ledges State Park, which features hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. The nearby town of Boone also has a variety of local shops, restaurants, and museums, including the historic Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad Museum.
Notable Roster
| Locomotive | Type | Builder | Notes |
| JS-8419 | 2-8-2 | Datong China 1989 | One of the last steam locomotives manufactured in China |
| 17 | 2-8-0 | CLC 1940 | Ex Roberval & Saguenay Railway Used by CO&E until the 1980’s. Considered the last regular operating steam locomotive in the USA. |
| 244 | RS-1 | ALCO 1951 | Ex-LS&I |
| 6540 | FP9A | GMD 1958 | Ex-Canadian National |
| 1003 | NW-2 | EMD 1942 | Ex-C&NW |
| 1098 | S-2 | ALCO 1942 | Ex-TRRA |
Getting There
Nearest Amtrak Station:
The nearest Amtrak station to the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad is located in Osceola, Iowa, which is approximately 60 miles south of Boone. The station is served by the California Zephyr, which runs daily between Chicago and Emeryville, California. The train stops in Osceola at 9:17 a.m. westbound and 9:21 p.m. eastbound.
Nearest Commercial Airport:
The nearest commercial airport to the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad is the Des Moines International Airport, which is approximately 50 miles southeast of Boone. Visitors can rent a car at the airport or take a shuttle service to Boone. The drive from the airport to the railroad takes approximately 1 hour.
Driving Directions:
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad is located in downtown Boone, Iowa, just off of Highway 30. From Des Moines, take I-35 north to exit 111 and follow Highway 30 west to Boone. From Omaha, take I-80 east to exit 117 and follow Highway 17 north to Boone.
