All aboard! Get ready for one of the greatest scenic rides across the Texas Countryside. Ride the rails on the Texas State Railroad, touted as the official railroad of the Lone Star State. This vintage train will take you on a trip unlike any other as you travel down winding paths full of history and beautiful landscapes only Texas can provide.
The four-hour, 25-mile rail journey through the Piney Woods of east Texas aboard their renovated train cars will whisk you away on an adventure. Delight in some of the most scenic parts of the quaint towns of Palestine and Rusk. This YouTube video uploaded by Louisiana Rail Productions provides an up close and personal look at what you can expect on this unique journey through some of Texas’ most beautiful areas, made all the more exciting as you steam ahead creating memories of a lifetime.
According to its website, “In 1881 prisoners from the East Texas Penitentiary built 1.3 miles of railroad track. In 1909, the final ties were laid, connecting Rusk with Palestine.” Centuries later, this majestic locomotive is thrilling visitors who travel miles to board the train that has not only been featured in over 30 movies but provides young and old alike the chance to experience the magical journey of a beloved classic, “The Polar Express.”
The adventure begins at the steps of the depot. It doesn’t matter if you depart from Palestine or Rusk, the history of these train depot surroundings makes for a great introduction into a storybook journey. “Built during the middle of the last century, these edifices are every bit a part of the rail experience as the ride itself,” shares its website.
Full of charm and history, the train depots each have their own unique identity. Stop in for a bite at the Whistle Stop Cafe in Palestine, and pick up a souvenir from the Roundhouse 1909 shop. Along the way, at the Rusk depot, you can enjoy a meal inside the Mail Car Café, “a 100-year-old Texas & Pacific mail & express car that straddles the rails alongside the depot.”
You can book your escape to this historic railroad as they provide fun family entertainment year-round with a medley of events. You also have the chance to camp out in the scenic surroundings of the Piney Woods nestled onsite with Cherokee Lake as your backdrop and a pavilion with a fireplace to enjoy campfire treats! For more on this vintage train and its historic journey into the woods visit texasstaterailroad.net
