FISH CAMP—Since its beginnings in 1965, Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad (YMSPRR) has been a staple of our mountain community—and the world. Folks come from all over the world during the season for a chance to ride one of the few remaining narrow-gauge railroads in existence. Local residents enjoy it just as much.
Snow melts and spring blooms mark the time when the railroad begins its operations each year. The call of the locomotive whistle can be heard far beyond the YMSPRR perimeter announcing each train’s departure.
The hours of operation vary as the season progresses. Current hours for the 2024 season, beginning March 22, are 9 am to 3 pm with The Logger departing at 11 am and 1 pm. Hour-long rides take you into the forest where lumberjacks felled trees for the town of Madera. For an added bonus, you can purchase a hand-crafted boxed lunch to take with you during the ride.
Ride upgrades include the First Class Caboose or the First-Class Cupola to make the journey even more special.
Tickets
Walk-up tickets are available, but you can save some money and guarantee your seat by booking online ahead of time. Rides are available for all ages and persons with disabilities. Children 2 and under ride free. Friendly dogs are always welcome.
Trains
The current operation includes two Shay locomotives, the #10 and the #15, both dating from the early 1900s. Learn about them here, but better yet, make a reservation with YMSPRR to actually ride them.
Special Train Rides
Moonlight Special
A mainstay of the YMSPRR adventures, the Moonlight Special combines a dinner under the trees, live music and, of course, a train ride. This event offers a New York steak or chicken BBQ dinner al fresco at the station with live music before you ride the rails of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad! Then, take your seat on the logger steam train for an excursion narrated by the conductor.
Step off the train during a stopover at Lewis Creek Canyon for some fun and entertainment. Hear the whistle blow and see the Shay’s firebox glow under the night sky on your trip back to the station! The first Moonlight Special of the season is scheduled to depart on May 18, 2024. Reservations can be made for that and subsequent moonlight rides. Moonlight Specials depart Wednesdays and Saturdays from June throughout the summer months.
Moonlight Melodrama
Moonlight Melodramas are a fun collaboration between YMSPRR and the renowned Golden Chain Theatre. The event includes dinner and live music prior to boarding your Shay locomotive for a narrated excursion through the forest. Step off the train at the Lewis Creek Canyon outdoor amphitheater. Boo the villain and cheer on the hero in a wonderful production by the Golden Chain Theatre. Hear the whistle blow and see the Shay’s firebox glow under the night sky on your trip back to the station!
This year’s Moonlight Melodramas are scheduled for June 2, July 7 and August 4 and feature the performance of “Wedded to a Villain.”
Halloween Limited
Celebrate Halloween aboard the railroad! All are encouraged to come in costume!
Children’s dinner includes an all-beef hot dog, chips and coleslaw with dessert. Adult dinner includes a Bratwurst on a Bun with chips, coleslaw and dessert. Please let YMSPRR know if you have special dietary needs.
For an extra-special adventure, experience the Fright Class service with complimentary beverages and table service for dinner. Then hop on board the caboose for a spooky story and a chance to ride in the cupola as you look out for scary creatures. Check back later in the season for scheduled dates.
Other Activities at YMSPRR
Thornberry Museum
While you await your train (or just have some time to kill), take advantage of the other features of YMSPRR. Peruse the Thornberry Museum, pan for gold, or check out their bookstore and gift shop. You can even book special events such as weddings, school field trips and tour groups.
Contact the Railroad
For more information about YMSPRR, contact them via their website, www.ymsprr.com, call them at (559)683-7273 anytime, 24 hours a day.
Photos courtesy of Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
