INCLUDES RIDE-ALONG VIDEO | Come along, and see what it’s like to actually climb aboard the ‘Holiday Express’ excursion – instead of just watching the steam-powered locomotive roll by …
Outside the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, volunteers lube and check over the historic Polson #2 steam locomotive, making it ready for another Holiday Express excursion.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Since the colorful fund-raiser began in 2005, the Holiday Express steam-powered locomotive train rides through the Oaks Bottom Natural Area has been a signature event for the Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation (ORHF) – with the exception being years clouded by the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
The ORHF has just expanded its Holiday Express operating season, starting the weekend runs right after Thanksgiving Day, and continuing them through January 4, 2025 – for a total of 102 runs, their longest season yet.
This family is happy they purchased their tickets to ride in advance – to be sure of seats on their Holiday Express excursion.
Inside the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, Griffin pens his “letter to Santa”, while his mom – Miranda Rake – looks on.
In the past, we’ve covered these by watching the trains departing – first from a temporary station set up at Oaks Amusement Park, and now more recently, from the Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) – and from inside the museum’s Enginehouse.
Watch this video, and see what it’s like to take a trip on the Holiday Express train, complete with vintage passenger cars:
Riding the Holiday Express
To experience the Holiday Express for ourselves, this season, with tickets in hand we hopped on board.
Folks settle in as their Holiday Express ride begins.
The powerful Polson #2 locomotive chugs along the Springwater Trail as it heads toward Oaks Bottom.
Taking seats at a table in the the vintage dining car, we watched as the train pulled out of the ORHC, rumbling south along Oregon Pacific Railroad tracks at a leisurely 12 mph.
Our sunset excursion provided unique views of the Willamette River as the train clickety-clacked its way past Oaks Amusement Park, before stopping at S.E. Spokane Street in Sellwood.
Coming the from their home in the Woodstock neighborhood are happy riders Kady Ferris, Emmy, and Adam Trabka.
Jolly Santa and Mrs. Claus greet kids during this Holiday Express jaunt.
Along the way, Santa and Mrs. Claus – along with a band of merry elves – made their way through the train meeting some 200 riders, distributing candy canes, giving hugs, and taking photos with families. “I’m thrilled that I’ll be giving away 19,000 candy canes this season,” Santa confided.
Coming to a stop, the locomotive blows off steam at S. E Spokane Street, before shifting into reverse for the return trip.
The return trip offers striking views, showing off the Ross Island Bridge high overhead, on the way back to the station to conclude the 40-minute excursion.
Riders remark
“This was magical! It’s now a family tradition for us.”
“The decorations and Santa made it feel so festive. The kids had a blast!”
“The smiles on the kids’ faces were priceless – they were so excited and thrilled to ride the train!”
“Thank you to all the volunteers – they were so welcoming and made this so special.”
Essential for the organization
Greeting departing riders as the train pulled in was ORHF Executive Director Renee Devereux. “The Holiday Express is vital our organization for many reasons,” she told East Portland News. “It’s our largest community event, helping us to connect with, and bring joy to, thousands of people of all ages – while celebrating the heritage of railroading.”
Back in the Enginehouse, another group of travelers assembles, awaiting their ride.
“Even more, it fosters a love for trains, while it showcases the incredible work of our volunteers,” Devereux continued. “Additionally, the excurssions generate significant revenue to support our mission to preserve and share Oregon’s rail history, throughout the year.”
Elaborating on their volunteers, she remarked that about 40 of them maintain the locomotives and railcars throughout the year – as well as operate the trains during the Holiday Express, as well as their spring and summer excursions.
“We’re so grateful for the 135 additional volunteers who contribute by decorating the railcars and our Center, providing meals during shifts, and helping with event operations – such as will-call, parking lot management, being loading hosts, car hosts, and more,” commended Devereux.
Another Holiday Express train ride pulls out of the station.
Get tickets now; rides sell out fast
Daytime trips offer a variety of scenery and a chance to see wildlife in Oaks Bottom; the early dusk trains offer a great chance to see the train decorated with lights.
On operating days, Holiday Express excursions leave punctually – so arrive at least 20 minutes early, so you aren’t left behind. Before or after your ride, enjoy the activities in the Enginehouse. The round-trip rides leave from, and return to, the Oregon Rail Heritage Center located at 2250 SE Water Avenue, near OMSI. The MAX Orange Line stops right at the museum, and there’s a parking lot if you’re driving.
For more information – and to purchase your tickets in advance to assure your seats – visit their website: CLICK HERE.
© 2024 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News™
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