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, home to the oldest locomotives in the state of Nevada and a permanent fixture of Virginia City since 1869.

A Little History

Considering Virginia City is the home of the Comstock Lode (the largest silver strike in U.S. history), finding a way to haul silver and gold 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.

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.

Train Rides on The V&T Railroad

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.

The V&T Railroad also runs event trains throughout the year. In the fall, the Pumpkin Patch Train and Graveyard Halloween Train are perfect for any level of fright you’re after. During the winter holidays, families flock to both the Candy Cane Express and Electric Holiday Train O’ Lights.