Virginia & Truckee Railroad

Anyone who’s spent time in historic Virginia City can attest to the undeniably comforting coo of the train whistle that can be heard throughout the city, beckoning visitors for a ride back in time. This alluring whistle belongs to the Virginia & Truckee (V&T) Railroad, one of the most famous of all American Short Line Railroads and the oldest locomotives in the state of Nevada and has been a permanent fixture of Virginia City since 1869. Considering Virginia City is home of the Comstock Lode (or the largest silver strike in United States history), finding a way to haul silver and gold rich ore in and out of the region was a necessity. Silver was discovered here in the late 1850s, and by 1869, construction on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad began, in hopes of connecting Virginia City, Gold Hill, and Silver City to Carson City.

A LITTLE HISTORY

In its heyday, the Virginia & Truckee Railroad hauled millions upon millions of dollars in gold and silver ore from the mines deep below Virginia City and the surrounding areas, running an impressive 45 trains per day for 74 years straight. Though the main goal of this railway was to haul gold and silver rich ore down to Carson City where it could be sold and minted, the Virginia & Truckee also ran passenger cars. The “Lighting Express” connected with the newly constructed transcontinental railroad, and ran luxury passenger cars like the Inyo and McKeen. Today, the McKeen is considered to be one of only three national historic landmarks that moves. Best yet, many of the original V&T historic locomotives are preserved, and can be found throughout the area. The Inyo, McKeen, and Dayton are restored to their original glory and housed at the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Carson City, and other parts of this historic railway can be found at Virginia City’s Comstock History Center, too.

The Virginia & Truckee was one of the most famous railways in the west, and visitors exploring Virginia City have the luxury of riding this storied line today. Located a short walk from Virginia City’s historic downtown, the V&T operates 100 year-old steam engines and heritage diesel locomotives from its original 1870 depot.

Visitors will ride through some of the most famous Comstock mines and ruins, while listening to the conductor narrate remarkable stories of the legendary bonanza that took place here. Aside from the endlessly fascinating history of Virginia City, visitors will also have the opportunity of spotting bands of wild horses, raptors, and other native wildlife that calls these ranges home.

COMSTOCK TRAIN ROUTE

•  Departing from the original 1870 depot, this 35-minute train ride is a fascinating trip through history that stretches through Tunnel No. 4, and 17 Comstock mine sites. Some of which, are the most famous mines of the Comstock, including Gould & Curry, the Savage Mine, Hale & Norcross, Potosi, the Chollar Mine, and even the notorious Yellow Jacket Mine that was the site of one of the deadliest mining accidents in United States history. Connecting from Virginia City to Gold Hill, visitors can drink in amazing views of northern Nevada ranges while keeping an eye out for wildlife Nevada is known for.

Specialty trains, including Pumpkin Patch Trains, the Candy Cane Express, and more are just a few offered.