TRAIN RIDE

TRAIN RIDE AT TWEETSIE RAILROAD IN BLOWING ROCK, NC

THE WILD WEST TRAIN ADVENTURE

The signature attraction is a three-mile ride behind one of Tweetsie Railroad’s historic narrow-gauge steam locomotives, No. 12 or No. 190. The trip combines mountain scenery with staged Wild West action, including cowboys, lawmen and bandits.

DEPARTURE FREQUENCY AND RIDE LENGTH

Trains depart approximately every 40–45 minutes from April through October. Boarding and the full trip require a substantial block of time, so allow about an hour from joining the queue through returning to the depot. Arrive earlier during peak midday periods and special events.

HOURS AND OPERATING SEASON

Regular daytime operations run from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tweetsie Railroad is open Saturdays and Sundays from April 4 through May 31, plus Memorial Day Monday; five days a week from June 1 through August 8, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays; and Saturdays and Sundays from August 9 through November 1, plus Labor Day Monday.

Ghost Train operates Friday and Saturday nights from September 25 through October 31, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Tweetsie Christmas runs on select evenings from November 27 through December 30, from 5:00 to 9:30 p.m. Miners Mountain and several daytime attractions are not open during the nighttime events.

ADMISSION AND PARKING

Regular daytime admission is $65 for ages 13 and older, $45 for children ages 3–12, and free for children age 2 and younger. Taxes and fees are included. Parking is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Golden Rail season passes are $150 for adults and $110 for children and include unlimited regular daytime admission plus pass benefits.

TICKETS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

The Wild West Train Adventure is included with regular daytime admission, and seating is first come, first served. Day Out With Thomas runs June 12–15 and June 18–21, 2026; those tickets include park admission and one scheduled Thomas train ride, so guests select a departure time when purchasing. Ghost Train and Tweetsie Christmas use separate event tickets and present different nighttime train experiences.

AGES AND SEATING

There is no general height restriction for the Wild West Train. Children should remain seated with their party, and adults should keep small children close throughout the trip. The action includes staged performers, loud sounds and western conflict that may surprise noise-sensitive young children.

ACCESSIBILITY

The second car of the Wild West Train has a ramp for standard-size wheelchairs. Arrive before the desired departure so staff have time to assist with accessible boarding. The Mouse Mine Train on Miners Mountain is also accessible for standard-size wheelchairs.

PETS AND STROLLERS

Pets are not permitted on the train. Strollers are not used in the passenger cars; follow the crew’s instructions for parking or storing them near the depot before boarding.

WEATHER AND STEAM OPERATIONS

The train operates outdoors and may be delayed by severe weather or operating needs. Coal-fired steam locomotives can produce smoke, soot, steam and loud mechanical sounds. Wear clothing that can tolerate a small amount of soot and secure hats and loose items.

BEST TIME TO RIDE

An early train helps families experience the signature attraction before the largest crowds. Riding near midday can create a break from walking, while late-afternoon departures may be busy with guests saving the train for last.

WHAT TO BRING

Bring hearing protection for sound-sensitive children, a light layer for the open-air cars, water for before and after the trip, and a camera secured with a strap.

WHO THIS ACTIVITY IS BEST FOR

The train is designed for all ages and is especially appealing to young children, railway enthusiasts and families who want the park’s central Wild West experience.