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An Alabama Christmas Train Ride In Silverhill!

Published: November 19, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Tucked among the rolling farm country of Baldwin County, Alabama, the Wales West RV Park & Light Railway is one of the most unique railroad attractions in the southeastern United States. Located in Silverhill—just a short drive from Mobile, Gulf Shores, and Pensacola—the property blends a full-service RV resort with a fully operational 15-inch-gauge narrow-gauge railway modeled after the famed Ffestiniog Railway of Wales. The result is an unexpected, family-friendly destination where guests can enjoy campground amenities, scenic miniature train rides, hands-on railway history, and some of the region’s most beloved seasonal events.

Perhaps the best-known among these is the Arctic Express, a Christmas-themed train ride that has become a cherished holiday tradition for families along the Gulf Coast. Set against the backdrop of twinkling lights, pine woods, and festive displays, the event brings a sense of North Pole magic to warm-weather Alabama.

A Railway with Welsh Roots

The Wales West Light Railway is the passion project of Ann and Ken Zadny, enthusiasts inspired by the preserved narrow-gauge railroads of Wales. The Ffestiniog Railway and others of its type run on 15-inch or similar narrow gauges, winding through rugged mountain terrain with compact locomotives that punch well above their weight. The Zadnevs sought to recreate this experience in the United States—both as a tribute to Welsh heritage and as a unique attraction for RV travelers and families.

Construction of the Light Railway began in the early 2000s. From the start it was envisioned as more than just a loop of track; it would be a true, functioning miniature railway with tunnels, passing sidings, loading platforms, and equipment patterned after real narrow-gauge practice. Over time the line grew into a roughly one-mile journey through the RV park and surrounding property.

The railroad’s rolling stock includes passenger coaches built for open-air visibility during fair-weather months, as well as covered seating for special events. Its locomotives, both steam-outline and diesel-outline designs, are styled after British and Welsh prototypes—complete with authentic detailing. Everything about the operation reflects a sincere love for railway heritage rather than a simple amusement-park ride.

The RV Park: A Comfortable Base for Families and Travelers

While the Light Railway is the signature attraction, Wales West is equally known for its full-service RV park. Many visitors first encounter the location when searching for overnight stays near the beaches of Gulf Shores or the attractions of Mobile Bay. What they find is a well-maintained, family-oriented resort with:

• Full hookup RV sites
• Cabins and tiny houses for rent
• Indoor heated pool and sauna
• Outdoor pool
• Walking paths and gardens
• Community events
• Fishing pond
• Camp store and office
• Playgrounds and activity areas for children

Guests appreciate that the railway runs directly through the park, adding scenic charm and giving families something unique to enjoy without leaving the grounds. The atmosphere is peaceful, spacious, and distinctly rural—an ideal contrast to the busy beach towns nearby.

Many long-term or seasonal visitors expressly mention the trains as the reason their children insist on returning year after year.

Riding the Wales West Light Railway

For day visitors and RV guests alike, the train ride is the highlight of a trip to Wales West. Trains depart from a small depot patterned after British narrow-gauge architecture, complete with a platform canopy and decorative station signage. Once aboard, riders settle into coaches that offer clear sightlines of the surrounding countryside.

The route winds past open fields, groves of trees, and the resort grounds before diving into tunnels—the longest extending more than 600 feet—where the darkness and rumble create an exciting environment for younger passengers. Emerging from the tunnels, the train curves past ponds, gardens, and small scenic features that add variety to the journey.

Although short in length, the ride captures the essence of a narrow-gauge experience: tight-radius curves, modest speeds, rhythmic exhaust sounds (or diesel chug), and a sense of scale that makes the landscape feel larger than life. On special occasions the railway brings out themed rolling stock or festively decorated trains, enhancing the immersive environment.

Most excursions last around 15–20 minutes, depending on the event or season. Visitors can typically ride multiple times throughout the day, and the railway staff are always enthusiastic about sharing facts, stories, and behind-the-scenes details with anyone interested in miniature railroading.

The Arctic Express: A Gulf Coast Christmas Tradition

While the Light Railway is appealing year-round, it is during the holiday season that Wales West truly shines. Each year, from late November through December, the property transforms into a Christmas wonderland for the Arctic Express—one of the most popular family holiday attractions in coastal Alabama.A Festive Evening Journey

After dusk, trains depart the station under a canopy of multicolored lights. The railway grounds are decorated with towering displays, animated holiday scenes, and thousands of cheerful LEDs that illuminate the darkness. Children are immediately drawn in by the spectacle, and adults frequently comment on the impressive scale of the decorations compared with the intimate size of the railroad.Meeting Santa at the North Pole

A highlight of every Arctic Express ride is the train’s arrival at the “North Pole,” a designated stop along the route where children can meet Santa Claus. The experience is designed to be cozy and personal; instead of rushing children through a line, the event typically allows for ample time to speak with Santa, take photos, and hand off Christmas wish lists.

Some seasons include additional features such as story readings, holiday music, candy canes, and hot cocoa stations back at the depot. The warm hospitality is a hallmark of Wales West and contributes to the family-friendly feel of the night.A Complete Family Outing

Beyond the train ride itself, the Arctic Express experience often includes:

• Access to decorated walking areas
• Lighted garden displays
• Gift shop items, including ornaments and railway-themed souvenirs
• Seasonal snacks and drinks
• Opportunities for holiday photos throughout the park

Because the event is extremely popular with local families and regional visitors, advance planning is advised. Many nights book up quickly, particularly closer to Christmas, and weather considerations—although milder in coastal Alabama—can occasionally alter schedules.

Planning Your Visit

Wales West is conveniently located about 30 minutes from both Mobile and the Alabama Gulf Coast, making it an easy day trip or a pleasant stop during RV travels. Visitors can purchase train tickets on-site or online (depending on the event), and operating days vary by season.

For the Arctic Express, arriving early ensures easy parking, shorter lines, and time to take in the decorated grounds before boarding. Families with young children may want to bring warm jackets for evening rides, as the open coaches can feel cool after sunset even in the Deep South.

A Distinctive Blend of History, Hospitality, and Holiday Spirit

The Wales West RV Park & Light Railway offers an experience found nowhere else in the United States: a recreation of a Welsh narrow-gauge railway placed in the heart of rural Alabama and integrated into a family-friendly campground. It is this unusual combination—plus a genuine dedication to craftsmanship and hospitality—that has helped the operation earn a loyal following.

Whether you are vacationing near the Gulf Coast, passing through in an RV, or seeking a magical Christmas outing with your family, the Arctic Express at Wales West is a delightful tradition that blends railway charm with holiday wonder. For many families in Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, the miniature trains, glowing lights, and warm greetings from Santa have become an essential part of the Christmas season—proof that the spirit of Wales can indeed thrive under Alabama skies. To learn more about this unique little scale train and its holiday excursion please click here to visit their website.