Alder Gulch Short Line

  • Mailing Address
  • PO Box 338
  • Virginia City, MT 59755
  • Contact Information
  • Phone: 406-843-5247
  • Fax: 406-843-5468
  • Toll Free: 800-829-2969

The Alder Gulch Short Line is a 30-inch narrow gauge tourist railroad owned by the State of Montana. This unique railroad connects Virginia City and Nevada City with a one and a half mile mainline. Montana's only operating steam locomotive, No.12 is a fully restored 1910 Baldwin. It was built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in Philadelphia as part of an order for four 30-inch gauge engines for the Mexican Railroad. The 28-foot beast can be seen each summer making trips between the towns, delighting tourists and Montanans alike.

Round Trip: steam train $15.00

One way: $12.00

Youth (6-16): $10, one way $6

Group rate (6 or more people): $10

On days that the steam locomotive does not run, there is a smaller train.

Area Activities

  • history
  • sightseeing
  • rail tours

Driving Directions

Virginia and Nevada City are located on Montana Highway 287, between Ennis and Sheridan.

Payment And Reservation Information

  • Reservations
  • walk-ins welcome
  • Discounts
  • child discount
  • group discount

Season / Hours Of Operation

  • Season
  • 5/24 - 9/1