Who would have ever thought that there would be a railroad museum hidden away in the desert. But that is exactly what I discovered today when I ventured toward the west entrance of the Joshua Tree National Park to the JT & S Railroad Museum. And I would have not known about this place if it had not been for my friend George posting info about it on Facebook.
Apparently this place has been here in the desert for 30 plus years. I’ve lived in this desert for the past 17 and only learned about it earlier this year. {Guess I need to get out more.} They have rail cars of many sizes (full size retired cars, G-Scale, Grand Scale and Narrow Gauge) which they build themselves. These guys are dedicated to their hobby!
At one time the land was owned by a Mr. Tedder. Him and a bunch of other railroad enthusiasts began laying tracks and building cars on this land of 350 acres. And when he past away several years back, he willed the land to the museum so that the tradition could be carried on. These days, the members get together several times a year to continue working on the land, laying tracks and building new cars. And giving rides to those who come out.
Yes, you can actually get a ride on these rail cars. It is so cool! My 9 YO son and I enjoyed a rather long ride on a 4 car train today. Believe it or not, we were sitting on low lawn chairs on flat open cars. No seats or handles to hold on to. And the ride last for more than 90 seconds. More like half an hour. Better than an E-Ticket Ride!
So if you happen to love trains or if your ever in the area visiting the Joshua Tree National Park, I highly recommend checking out the JT & S Railroad Museum. It is so worth it!
And here’s a little video I made from our days’ adventure. Enjoy!