It’s full speed ahead at the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad!
The West Fork Logging Co. Steam Unit No. 2, built in 1923, has a new home at Mt. Rainer Scenic Railroad’s new museum. Formerly housed at the Lion’s Club campground in Mineral, Washington, the steam unit was constructed by the Willamette Iron & Steel Works of Portland, Oregon. In addition to the steam unit, the museum has also received a builder’s plate, which confirms the unit was part of Willamette Iron & Steel Works’ engine No. 2208. The builder’s plate was found more than fifty years ago, by someone using a metal detector in the area around Mineral Lake, where Unit No. 2 was once used to load logs onto Milwaukee Road log cars. A restoration of Unit No. 2 is planned, as well.
Along with the new exhibit, another exciting happening is the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad Steamfest, which will take place on Saturday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This steam train revival will feature five beautiful steam engines—a comprehensive collection of steam logging locomotives. The event includes train rides through the forested foothills of Mt. Rainier, special run-bys, and the opportunity to purchase exciting cab rides. Visitors will be able to see the new museum plans and take a peek into one of the busiest locomotive restoration shops in North America. A portion of ticket sale proceeds will go toward preserving and maintaining the historic exhibits at the Mt. Rainer Scenic Railroad. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see these rare engines steaming down the tracks!
Tickets are $75 for an all-day pass for ages thirteen to fifty-five, and $65 for youth, seniors, and active duty military. Visit http://whistletix-public.ticketbiscuit.com:8001/MRSR/Events/190935 for ticket information. Visit www.msr.com for more information about the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad.
