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Travel on the lovely, and heritage, 1880 Train on the Black Hills Central Railroad in South Dakota. This line runs over 10 miles of stunningly scenic country between Hill City and Key Stone, passing through beautifully verdant forests that change dramatically depending on the time of the year on its way. From the crisp browns and yellows of fall, to the ripe greens of summer, discover a journey that is picture-postcard perfect at all times, whilst riding in delightful carriages pulled by either one of three steam locomotives, or one of diesel engines.
The 1880 Train founded in 1957, and was named thanks to the founder, William Heckman, wanting to recapture the nostalgic fun of the 1880s. This delightful line now holds the title as one of the United States of Americas' longest continuously running tourist trains.
The train
The 1880 Train is a delightful heritage steam train which runs on
the Black Hills Central Railroad in South Dakota. It makes the
20-mile round journey through the stunningly scenic countryside
that lies between Hill City and Keystone, passing through beautiful
forests that change dramatically depending on the time of year.
From the muted browns and yellows of autumn, to the ripe, verdant
greens of summer, passengers are treated to a picture-perfect view
throughout the year, whilst riding in attractive restored carriages
pulled by one of three vintage steam locomotives, or, when the
steam boiler is being washed, a diesel engine.
The mining boom in the Black Hills began in the late 1800s, after gold was discovered in the area. By 1900 the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad Company had established the original line between Hill City and Keystone, which was built as a mining railroad to haul precious cargo from the Black Hills. In 1957, the Black Hills Central Railroad was founded by a group who were dedicated to preserving steam railroading. Unhappy with the increasing prevalence of diesel engines since the 1940s, the group, led by William Heckman, was formed to ensure that "there should be in operation at least one working steam railroad, for boys of all ages who share America's fondness for the rapidly vanishing steam locomotive." After its inception, the journey, along with its locomotives, were nicknamed 'the 1880 Train' by Heckman, who likened the trip to the nostalgic train rides of the 1800s. The Black Hills Central Railroad experienced a rebirth in 1990, with the line and facilities thoroughly cleaned and upgraded, and the existing locomotives restored to prime condition. The charming line now holds the title as one of the United States' longest continuously running tourist trains, and remains a popular attraction for visitors to the area.
The Journey
Passengers enjoy a one-way trip on the 1880 Train from Hill City,
the oldest city in Pennington County, South Dakota, to the old
mining town of Keystone, on a pleasant 10-mile journey which lasts
an hour. Enjoy a relaxed, leisurely journey as the train slowly
winds through the scenic Black Hills of western South Dakota,
following the route of Battle Creek. The rugged countryside is a
joy to behold as the train meanders through the hills and National
Forest Service land, with views of towering forests, pretty meadows
and trickling creeks, as well as the remnants of old mines, which
allows a nostalgic glimpse into the remarkable mining history of
the region. Animal lovers will appreciate the local wildlife often
seen from the carriages windows; woodland animals including white
tail and mule deer, wild turkey, mallard ducks and cottontail
rabbits make their homes in the environment surrounding the line.
And, with over 15 road crossings on route, passengers are provided
with many opportunities to hear the unique and nostalgic sound of
the train's steam whistle.
Facilities
The 1880 train boasts beautifully restored carriages with bench
style seating. There are open air cars with wooden seats, and
enclosed cars with padded seats and windows which can be opened,
both of which pay homage to a bygone age. The train is wheelchair
accessible, accommodating up to two wheelchairs per journey. The
scenic trip is also accompanied by on-board narration, which
educates passengers on the history of the train and railway line,
and highlights points of interest along the route. There is also
have the opportunity to purchase an informative guide book at each
station and on board the train itself, which includes more
historical and technical information. Refreshments including
drinks, sweets and popcorn are available on board, and the
High-Liner Snack Shoppe at the station in Hill City sells an
assortment of typical American snack-style fare, including burgers,
hot dogs, nachos and ice cream, all of which can be taken and
enjoyed on board.