Tilden Steam Train – Redwood Valley Railway Family Guide (2025)
A magical steam train ride through redwood groves in the Berkeley Hills
The Redwood Valley Railway at Tilden Regional Park is one of the Bay Area's most beloved family attractions. Operating since 1952, these beautifully crafted miniature steam trains take passengers on a scenic 12-minute journey through redwood groves and along a stunning ridgeline with views of the hills. It's a true steam train experience—you can smell the coal and hear the whistle echo through the trees.
Quick Facts
Ride Length
12-15 min
Cost
$4/person
Best Ages
1–10 years
Train Type
Real Steam
2025 Schedule & Hours
Year-Round
Weekends & Holidays: 11am–5pm (last train 4:45pm)
Summer (Mid-June–Labor Day)
Daily: 11am–5pm
Winter
Reduced hours; check website
Trains do not run in heavy rain. Holiday weekends can be very busy.
What the Ride Is Like
This is a real steam train experience. The locomotives are beautifully detailed miniature steam engines that burn coal and produce real steam. You'll smell the smoke, hear the chuff of the engine, and feel the train climb as it ascends through redwood groves.
The route passes through dense forest, across a trestle bridge, and along a scenic ridge. Kids love spotting wildlife, watching the engineer work the controls, and waving at other trains. The open-air cars give everyone a great view.
Tickets & Prices
Tickets are $4 per person (cash or card). Children under 2 ride free when held on a lap. No advance reservations—purchase tickets at the station. On busy weekends, you may wait 20-30 minutes for the next train, but the line moves steadily.
Best Age Range
This train appeals to a wide age range: 1 to 10 years. The steam engine fascinates older kids who are into trains, while toddlers love the movement and forest scenery. Even adults enjoy the nostalgia and craftsmanship. The slightly longer ride time (compared to other park trains) makes it satisfying for all ages.
Stroller & Accessibility Details
The station area has paved paths and is stroller-accessible. Strollers must be parked at the platform during the ride. The train has open-air bench seating, and staff can assist with boarding. Note that Tilden Park has hilly terrain—the walk from parking to the station involves some gentle slopes.
Parking & Directions
Address: Grizzly Peak Blvd & Lomas Cantadas, Orinda, CA 94563
Free parking is available in the lot near the station. On weekends, the lot fills by noon—arrive early or be prepared to use overflow parking along the road. The park is accessed via Grizzly Peak Boulevard from either the Berkeley or Orinda side.
Nearby Family Spots
Tilden Park is packed with family activities:
- 🎠Tilden Merry-Go-Round – Historic carousel just up the road
- 🐐Little Farm – Free petting farm with goats, pigs, and cows
- 🌳Botanic Garden – Beautiful native plant garden
- 🏊Lake Anza – Swimming beach (summer)