By Railfan & Railroad Staff

Washington’s Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad moved nearly 11,000 passengers in less than two months in its first season back after being closed for nearly four years. Because of that success, the non-profit Western Forest Industries Museum, which operates the railroad, announced recently that it was extending its season into November and December to offer holiday excursions. 

MRSR began operations on a former stretch of Milwaukee Road track in 1980 and was purchased by American Heritage Railways, which also owns Colorado’s Durango & Silverton, in 2016. The railroad was renamed the Mt. Rainier Railroad & Logging Museum by American Heritage Railways but struggled to succeed. It was closed in 2020 at the start of the pandemic. In 2022, a local group, Western Forest Industries Museum, was reorganized to get the railroad back in operation. 

Earlier this year, the railroad announced it was going to offer rail bike tours and run steam excursions on the shuttered Chehalis-Centralia Railroad. At the time, excursions on its own railroad were still a few years out, officials said. But thanks to the help of volunteers, they were able to get the rail line between Elbe and Mineral, Wash., back in service even sooner. Excursion service began on September 1. Officials said most trips were sold out. In the end, the railroad hosted passengers from 11 countries and 47 states. 

“In my 23 years here, I have never seen such enthusiasm and interest from the public. Many excursions have been fully booked weeks in advance, with waiting lists and walk-up passengers filling our standing-only open car,” said Operations Manager Rowdy Pierce. 

Starting the weekend after Thanksgiving, the railroad will offer 1 hour and 15-minute holiday rides out of its depot at Elbe, Wash. For more information, visit the railroad’s website. Those runs will be led by Polson Lumber Co., 2-8-2 70. 

“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated volunteers, patrons, and the entire community for their unwavering support,” said Executive Director Bethan Maher. “This season’s success serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad and its special place in the hearts of those who cherish its history and the natural beauty of the area.”