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A Washington Christmas Train Ride In Elbe!

Published: November 17, 2025

By: Adam Burns

For decades, the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad (MRSR) has stood as one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved heritage rail operations. Nestled in the spectacular foothills of Washington’s Cascade Range, the excursion line transports guests through wooded valleys, across creeks and wetlands, and into deep timber country that helped define life in the shadow of Mt. Rainier for more than a century.

Although the railroad has gone through several operational changes over the years, its legacy of preserving logging-era steam locomotives and showcasing early 20th-century railroading remains one of the most significant efforts of its kind on the West Coast. Today, under renewed management and revitalization, the MRSR continues its mission of connecting visitors to the region’s rail and forestry heritage.

Among its various seasonal offerings, none captures the public’s imagination quite like “Christmas with The Clauses,” a festive holiday ride that blends mountain scenery, vintage rail equipment, family-friendly storytelling, and the cozy charm of a small-town Christmas celebration. For many Washington families, this excursion has become an annual tradition.

Founding, Purpose, and Early Development

The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad began operations in the early 1980s, built around a core mission: preserving the region’s rich logging-railroad legacy. Washington’s forests once supplied the nation with lumber, and specialized railroads—equipped with geared steam locomotives like Shays, Heislers, and Climaxes—formed the backbone of that industry. As the timber era waned, many of these unique engines were abandoned or forgotten.

Local preservationists and museum groups stepped in, determined to rescue this equipment and return it to operation. Their efforts eventually coalesced into what would become one of the largest collections of operable geared steam locomotives in the United States.

Based in the small town of Elbe, Washington, the railroad operated over several miles of former logging and industrial track once used by the region’s timber companies. For decades, MRSR excursions attracted families, tourists, and rail enthusiasts eager to experience the rare sight—and unmistakable sound—of geared locomotives puffing through forested valleys.

Route and Scenery: Railroading in the Cascade Foothills

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad excursions typically begin in Elbe, a rustic community situated along the Nisqually River just outside the entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park. The journey from Elbe to Mineral passes through a landscape defined by:

Dense Evergreen Forests

Towering Douglas firs, cedars, and hemlocks enclose much of the route, creating the sensation of a train slipping deep into mountain wilderness.

Mountain Streams and Wetlands

The line crosses rivers and creeks fed by glacial meltwater, including the Nisqually watershed. These crossings offer scenic vistas, wildlife viewing, and a sense of Pacific Northwest tranquility.

Historic Logging Sites

Though nature has reclaimed much of the industry’s footprint, the route passes the former locations of camps, mills, sidings, and spurs that once bustled with railroad activity during the region’s timber boom.

Mineral Lake and the Depot

Trips traditionally end at the depot at Mineral, a small mountain community situated near the lake of the same name. The area is home to the railroad’s historic shops and the site of its interpretive displays.

This combination of scenery and history gives the MRSR a distinctive sense of place—both remote and deeply connected to the Northwest’s industrial heritage.

Christmas with The Clauses: A Mountain Holiday Tradition

The Mt. Rainier Scenic’s “Christmas with The Clauses” event has quickly become a highlight of Washington’s holiday season. Drawing on the region’s natural beauty, the charm of a small mountain village, and the timeless appeal of rail travel, the experience blends festive fun with the railroad's historical character.

Below is a detailed look at what passengers can expect during this holiday excursion.

Departure from Elbe and Festive Atmosphere

The holiday ride begins at the historic Elbe depot, decorated with Christmas lights, garlands, wreaths, and warm lantern-style lighting that fits the rustic setting. Staff and volunteers often wear scarves, conductor caps, and winter-themed attire, greeting families as they arrive.

Passengers board a string of vintage coaches transformed with:

• Evergreen garlands
• Holiday ornaments
• Warm interior lighting
• Festive music softly playing throughout the cars

The atmosphere is intentionally cozy, nostalgic, and reminiscent of an old-fashioned mountain Christmas.

A Scenic Ride into the Winter Woods

The train departs Elbe and heads toward Mineral, traveling through dense forests and along rivers and wetlands. In early winter, the landscape often features:

• Fog drifting through the pines
• Snow-dusted evergreens
• Winter wildlife activity
• Crisp mountain air and open views toward Mt. Rainier on clear evenings

Twilight departures are especially magical, with the glow of the train’s lights reflecting through the trees.

Onboard Entertainment with Mr. and Mrs. Claus

“Christmas with The Clauses” revolves around the presence of both Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, who play active roles throughout the journey. Unlike excursions that rely solely on a quick Santa photo opportunity, the MRSR’s holiday experience emphasizes storytelling, interaction, and character-driven fun.

Guests enjoy:

• Heartwarming holiday stories narrated by Mrs. Claus
• Caroling and sing-along moments
• Jokes and conversations with Santa
• Interactive fun for kids, including questions, trivia, and seasonal observations

Both Santa and Mrs. Claus walk through the coaches, stopping to talk with each child, pose for photos, and hand out small gifts or holiday keepsakes.

Stop at the Christmas Village in Mineral

One of the most beloved elements of the experience is the stop at Mineral, which transforms into a miniature “Christmas Village” for the season. At this stop, families step off the train into a festive mountain setting featuring:

• Christmas lights illuminating the historic depot
• Bonfires or heaters (depending on the year)
• Photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus
• Holiday treats such as cocoa or cookies
• Small interpretive displays or craft stations for children

This brief visit allows everyone to stretch their legs and enjoy the crisp winter atmosphere before reboarding for the return trip.

The Return Journey: A Cozy Ride Back to Elbe

The ride back is quiet, warm, and reflective. Passengers settle into their seats as the holiday lights twinkle along the coaches. The gentle rhythm of the train, cold night air outside, and occasional glimpses of winter wildlife create a serene conclusion to the evening.

Families often remark that the return trip feels like the perfect wind-down to a busy Christmas season—a simple, authentic experience rooted in tradition.

Conclusion: A Pacific Northwest Holiday Tradition

The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad remains a defining heritage attraction in the Pacific Northwest, preserving the engines, equipment, and traditions that powered Washington’s logging industry for generations. Its renewed operations and community engagement mark a promising future for this historic excursion line.

“Christmas with The Clauses” encapsulates everything people love about the MRSR: mountain scenery, family tradition, cozy rail travel, and a strong connection to local history. Whether you’re a family seeking a new holiday tradition, a visitor exploring the cascades, or a rail enthusiast eager for wintertime riding, Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s holiday event offers a memorable and heartwarming experience.  To learn more about this event and purchasing tickets please visit the railroad's website.