Day Trip on the Virginia Truckee Railroad Traveling Through History

The Virginia Truckee Railroad offers visitors two trip options: the short line from Virginia City or Carson City to Virginia City Round Trip. Most visitors take the 35-minute journey from Virginia City to Gold Hill and back. If you have more time, the 24-mile round trip from Carson City is the best choice. Passengers sit back and relax while your conductor tells the story of the Comstock mines and how the railroad played its part in making Virginia City the most famous boomtown of the Old West.

Virginia City to Gold Hill Train Excursion

Departing from Virginia City, visitors take a 30-minute trip back in time aboard one of the most famous American short-line railroads. Travel past long-closed silver mines, through one of the original tunnels, and to Gold Hill train station. Riders can depart for a few minutes at Goldhill while the engine moves to the front of the train for the return trip. Trains depart hourly during the summer season, with steam trains on weekends. The short-line train trip is dog-friendly for well-behaved canine friends. Tickets and information for the Gold Hill excursion can be found here.

Carson City to Virginia City Round Trip Train

The Virginia Truckee Railroad line is restored from the outskirts of Carson City to Virginia City. Enjoy magnificent views while traveling the historic route of the Virginia & Truckee Railroad. This excursion is a 24-mile round trip. Travel time to Virginia City is 1.5 hours. The stop in Virginia City is a little over three hours. The return trip to the Carson City Depot is all downhill and takes one hour and fifteen minutes. If you choose this train trip, plan on a full day riding the rails and visiting Virginia City. No dogs are allowed except service dogs.

Carson River Canyon Wine Train

The River Canyon run lasts 45 minutes and follows the original Virginia & Truckee Railroad line along the Carson River. It operates on weekends during the summer season. The popular evening wine train is a relaxing ride through the scenic Carson River Canyon. Only service dogs are allowed on this trip. The V&T Railway website has more information and tickets for both trips. 

History of the Virginia Truckee Railroad

The Virginia Truckee Railroad began operation in 1870. Its primary mission was to haul silver ore from the mines to the stamp mills located 10 miles south of Virginia City on the Carson River. At its height, the railroad’s route ran from Reno south to Carson City, Nevada. In Carson City, the mainline is split into two branches. One branch continued south to Minden, while the other ran east to Virginia City. The trains ran for over eighty years before the Virginia & Truckee Railroad ceased operation. The last official train operated on May 31, 1950, between Reno, Carson City, and Minden.

About Virginia City, Nevada

Virginia City, Nevada, is a historic mining town in Storey County, approximately 20 miles southeast of Reno. It serves primarily as a tourist destination, attracting visitors who want to experience its Wild West atmosphere, which includes some of the town’s original saloons. Virginia City is a beautiful place to visit and should be at the top of your list when exploring the Reno and Carson City areas. No trip to Virginia City is complete without a ride on the historic Virginia & Truckee Railroad.

Nearby Points of Interest:

Carson City Nevada State Railroad Museum

The Nevada State Railroad Museum is a well-known attraction in Carson City. Visitors can explore locomotives, rail cars, and other historic railroad equipment from the Virginia and Truckee Railroad. On select weekends, a steam train or powered rail car runs on a short loop track around the museum, offering a unique experience for visitors. Website.

Genoa Bar: Nevada’s Oldest Saloon

The Genoa Bar & Saloon is not just a place to drink; it’s a living history. Known for its 14-ingredient Bloody Marys, the Genoa Saloon offers a wide selection of spirits in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The decor features original 19th-century elements, including the bar counter and ceiling medallions, as well as a collection of historical memorabilia.

Places to Ride Trains in Nevada: