Beyond the Big Boy: Discovering the Nevada Northern Hidden Steam Railway
- Keith Peters
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
Now that Union Pacific’s massive Big Boy No. 4014 has wrapped up its epic cross-country tour, railfans across North America are catching their breath. Watching the world’s largest operating steam locomotive roll across the country was an unforgettable thrill, but if you missed its whistle-stops or are simply craving another taste of authentic steam power, don't worry. Historic steam excursions are thriving across the nation, and one of the absolute best hidden gems lies tucked away in the high desert of eastern Nevada.
Welcome to the Nevada Northern Railway in Ely, Nevada, a place where you don't just watch history pass by; you ride directly into it.
Nevada Northern Railway: A True Living Time Capsule
While many museum railways preserve a locomotive or two on static display, the East Ely Yard is a 53-acre National Historic Landmark that operates almost exactly as it did over a century ago. Construction started back in 1905, and its tracks have remained active ever since. When commercial copper mining operations wound down in the 1980s, the entire complex, from the depot and engine house to the coaling tower, was preserved as a working railway museum.
Meet Engine No. 81
The star of the show in Ely is Nevada Northern No. 81. Delivered in 1917 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works, this 2-8-0 Consolidation locomotive was built for "mixed service", hauling heavy copper ore during the week and pulling passenger trains on weekends.
Unlike standard black locomotives, No. 81 sports a striking olive-green boiler jacket—Baldwin’s premium factory finish reserved for passenger trains. After decades of hard labor and a long retirement starting in 1960, a dedicated team brought No. 81 back to life. Restored to its exact 1917 delivery scheme, it now chugs through the desert looking just like it did over a hundred years ago.
The Excursion Experience: High Desert and Tunnels
Stepping onboard Engine No. 81’s train is an immersive adventure. Passengers can choose between classic indoor coaches, a caboose, or an open wooden flatbed car, the ultimate choice for cinematic views and fresh desert air.
As the train rolls out of Ely, the journey highlights what makes historic railroading so special:
Here is a video of what riding the rails of the Nevada Northern Railway is like.
Why Ely Needs to Be on Your Travel Radar
Big Boy No. 4014 may get the national headlines when it travels from coast to coast, but places like the Nevada Northern Railway offer something intimacy and access can't replicate anywhere else.
Here, you can watch the crew blow down the boiler at the end of the day, explore authentic historic shop buildings, and feel the raw, rumbling power of vintage American iron against a pristine mountain backdrop.
Trip Planning Essentials:
Where: East Ely Depot, 1100 Ave A, Ely, Nevada
Best Seat: Grab a spot on the open-air flatbed car for the best photos and unobstructed canyon views.
Tip: Check their event calendar in advance for special seasonal steam trips, sunset rides, and hands-on "Be the Engineer" experiences!
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