The Black Hills Central Railroad, Through The Breathtaking Black Hills Of South Dakota

The Black Hills Central Railroad is one of the oldest tourist railroads in the country, dating back to 1957 when it took over an ex-Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad branch in the region originally used to mine the famous gold deposits located in the Black Hills region. Today, the Black Hills Central still operates roughly 10 miles of this branch between Hill City and Keystone, just a short drive from the large population center of Rapid City.

Over the years the railroad has steadily grown a fine collection of steam locomotives and rolling stock, all of which have been authentically restored to the early 20th century era. Because of the railroad's detail to authenticity it has earned celebrity status on a number of different occasions having been used in television shows and movies including the series Gunsmoke and movie Orphan Train.

The Black Hills Central Railroad’s steam locomotive fleet includes the recently restored 2-6-6-2T Mallet (the pride of the fleet) built by Baldwin Locomotive Works and three other 2-6-2s (two of which are operational). Below is roster information about the railroad’s entire fleet, which also includes two diesels:

· #63 – An ex-Chesapeake & Ohio railway EMD GP9 road-switcher, used when needed and during morning excursions.

· #6657 – A Whitcomb Locomotive Works 80DE5

· #7 – Baldwin Locomotive Works 2-6-2

· #103 – Baldwin Locomotive Works 2-6-2 (Not Operational)

· #104 – Baldwin Locomotive Works 2-6-2T

· #110 – Baldwin Locomotive Works 2-6-6-2T

The Black Hills Central Railroad’s signature ride during the summer season is called the 1880 Train, which runs the entire length of the line between Hill City and Keystone passing through and along the beautiful hills and canyons of the Black Hills Mountains. Other excursion specials the railroad operates include their Wine Train, Fireworks Express (for the July 4th holiday), Holiday Express (for the Christmas season), and Fright Train for Halloween. The railroad also runs specials for Father’s and Mother’s Day.

So, if you’re ever in southwestern South Dakota or visiting Rapid City consider taking a short drive south to see this unique and super scenic railroad. I have a feeling that you won’t come away disappointed! Lastly, if you have the time please consider volunteering to help them with not only restoration work but also maintaining their railroad. I am sure they would very much appreciate the help!

For more information on tourist railroads like the Black Hills Central Railroad you might want to consider the book Empire State Railway Museum's Tourist Trains 2006 from the Empire State Railway Museum. Given excellent reviews this guidebook covers nearly all of the tourist railroads and museums operating in the country in fine detail. So, if you’re interested in locating a tourist train or railroad near you, or simply want to know more about a particular one, you will certainly not be disappointed in Empire State Railway Museum’s guidebook to tourist railroads and museums. If you're interested in perhaps purchasing this book please visit The Railroad Diamond by clicking the tab in the menu to your left marked "TRD Store".