Goat Hill Junction Free Miniature Train Rides Costa Mesa

 

The Orange County Model Engineers (OCME) operate the Goat Hill Junction in Fairview Park. The engineers offer free train rides every third weekend of the month. The layout has grown from one tiny loop to over five miles of track. Trains take riders on a 15-minute journey around Fairview Park. Guests are welcome to ride as often as they want but must return in line after each trip. Goat Hill Junction trains are fun for both adults and kids. Every person has a broad smile as they travel around the park on these beautiful little trains.

Goat Hill Junction Track and Trains

The layout includes about 5 miles of track that circles the park. Volunteers run the trains, and many have backgrounds in railroading or engineering. Six engines and over 45 bench cars are available for public rides. The trains offer a 15-minute trip around Fairview Park, crossing bridges and offering views of the surrounding area, including the Costa Mesa Golf Course. Passengers straddle the little train cars while riding around Fairview Nature Park. Two volunteers are on each train: the engineer and a conductor sitting behind the driver.

Train Rides Third Weekend of the Month

Orange County Model Engineers members offer train rides every third Saturday and Sunday of the month from 10 am to 3:30 pm. Rides are free, but they do accept donations. The Mackerel Flats and Goat Hill Junction Railroad boasts one of the largest miniature train layouts on the West Coast. When riding, it is important to pay attention to the instructions from the train crew. Safety is a top priority for model engineers, so all rules must be followed while on the miniature trains, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all.

Goat Hill Junction Railroad History

Orange County Model Engineers was founded in 1988 by a group of local railroad buffs. Many have worked for real railroads and now enjoy trains as a hobby. OCME is a non-profit 501(c) organization dedicated to providing free train rides to the public, promoting the love of trains, and preserving the heritage of mechanical engineering related to railroads.

Become an OCEM Member

Membership is open to anyone interested in trains, offering opportunities for learning, working on the trains, and enjoying the hobby. The club is run entirely by volunteers, emphasizing fun and community service. Club members operate over 40 gas and steam-powered model locomotives on the miniature railway, and you don’t have to wait until the third weekend to ride a train.

Special Events and Birthdays

In addition to regular public ride days, Goat Hill Junction hosts birthday parties and special events and participates in community activities like the Scarecrow Festival. It also has a small gift shop and snack bar where visitors can purchase train-themed merchandise and refreshments.

Tips Before You Go

Arrive Early: Goat Hill Junction train rides are popular, so expect a relatively long line to board the train soon after opening.
Who Can Ride? Both adults and kids can ride the trains, but children must walk independently.
Parking: Parking is free, but your vehicle may accumulate dust since the lot is unpaved.
Cell Phones: Cameras and cell phones are prohibited while the train is in motion.
Donations: Goat Hill Junction operates off donations, so if you have a couple of extra bucks, drop them in the box if you are on a tight budget; it is OK to pass until your situation improves.
Can I Watch the Trains? If you decide not to ride, there are some benches where you can sit and enjoy the trains as they pass by the train station. (It’s not likely.)

Where is Goat Hill Junction

The railroad is at 2480 Placentia Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92627. It can be tricky to spot as you enter via a gravel road on the East side of Placentia Avenue between Adams Avenue and Victoria Street. Check the OCEM website for information on train rides and special events. https://ocmetrains.org/

Goat Hill Junction Final Thoughts

Overall, Goat Hill Junction Railroad by the Orange County Model Engineers is not just a place for enthusiasts to enjoy model trains. This volunteer railroad offers a unique educational experience for families, hobbyists, and those interested in trains. It’s a place where adults and children have a fun outing. Goat Hill Junction is the best free activity for kids in Orange County, so get out and enjoy.

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