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 minutes
• 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)

FAQ

How long is the Tilden Steam Train ride? The Redwood Valley Railway ride lasts approximately 12-15 minutes. The train travels through beautiful redwood groves and crosses a scenic ridge, covering about 1.25 miles of track. It's a perfect length for young children.

When is the Tilden Steam Train open in 2025? The train operates year-round on weekends and holidays from 11am to 5pm (last train at 4:45pm). During spring break and summer (mid-June through Labor Day), trains run daily. Reduced hours apply in winter. The train does not operate in heavy rain.

How much does the Tilden Steam Train cost? As of 2025, tickets are $4 per person. Children under 2 ride free when held on a lap. Cash and cards are accepted. No advance reservations needed—just show up and buy tickets at the station.

Is the Tilden Steam Train stroller- and wheelchair-friendly? The station area is accessible with paved paths. Strollers need to be parked at the platform during the ride. The train has open-air cars and staff can assist with boarding. Some areas of Tilden Park have hilly terrain, so plan accordingly.