Table of Contents
Quick Facts
| Railroad Name | St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern Railroad |
| Website | https://www.slimrr.com/ |
| Train ride | Diesel locomotive powered train pulling vintage passenger equipment though scenic southern Missouri, over Ex-Missouri Pacific line |
| Location | 252 E JACKSON BLVD JACKSON, MO 63755 Google Maps |
| Length of trip | 6 miles, 2 hour trip |
| Cost of single ticket | $20.00 |
| Special Trains | Murder Mystery trains Chuck wagon trains James Gang Robbery trains Junior Conductors and Engineer trains Dinosaur train Dads Day National Cowboy Day The Santa Express |
Information/History
The St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern tourist railroad in Jackson, Missouri is a popular attraction for history buffs and tourists. Offering a scenic train ride through the beautiful countryside, visitors can step back in time and experience the thrill of a bygone era.
The tourist railroad began operations in 1999, but its history dates back to the 19th century when the railroad was owned by the Missouri Pacific Railroad. The line played a significant role in the development of the iron and steel industry in the region and operated as a freight line until the 1990s.
In 1999, the SEMO Port Railroad acquired the line and began operating it as a tourist railroad. The railroad underwent significant renovations, with vintage passenger cars restored to their original condition, providing a unique and comfortable experience for passengers.
The train ride takes passengers on a scenic journey through the countryside, crossing over several historic bridges and through tunnels. The train departs from the station in Jackson and travels through historic tunnels, including the famous Wittenberg Bridge. The train consists of vintage passenger cars pulled by a historic diesel locomotive, providing an authentic experience for visitors.
The predecessor of the St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern tourist railroad was owned by the Missouri Pacific Railroad. Prior to the present tourist railroad’s acquisition, the line operated as a freight line until the 1990s.
The St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern tourist railroad is located in Jackson, Missouri, a small city in Cape Girardeau County. Visitors can also enjoy several local attractions near the railroad, including the Missouri Wall of Fame, which honors famous Missourians, and the Trail of Tears State Park, which commemorates the forced relocation of Native Americans in the 19th century.
Notable Roster
| Locomotive | Type | Builder | Notes |
| 5 | 2-4-2 | H.K. Porter 1946 | Ex-Central Illinois Public Service, Ex-CO&E |
| 5898 | E8A | EMD | Ex-Pennsylvania Railroad |
Getting There
The nearest Amtrak station to the St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern tourist railroad is located in Carbondale, IL approximately 60 miles away, serviced by the City of New Orleans train, which stops twice daily.
The nearest commercial airport is the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport, located approximately 15 miles away, and visitors can rent a car or take a taxi from the airport to the railroad. This airport has limited commercial flights, the next closest airport is Lambert Airport, in St. Louis.
The nearest commercial airport is the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport, located approximately 15 miles away, and visitors can rent a car or take a taxi from the airport to the railroad. This airport has limited commercial flights, the next closest airport is Lambert Airport, in St. Louis.
In conclusion, the St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern tourist railroad in Jackson, Missouri offers a unique and authentic experience that transports visitors back in time. With its rich history, vintage passenger cars, and historic locomotive, the train ride is a must-see attraction for railroad enthusiasts and tourists alike.
