Ghost towns are inherently mysterious, with their crumbling buildings and the lingering presence of a not-so-distant past that never quite feels finished. But if there’s something even more unique, it’s experiencing one from the slow rattle of a train.
Located inside Calico Ghost Town in San Bernardino County, the Calico & Odessa Railroad is a heritage attraction designed to capture the spirit of the region’s mining past. It’s a short, scenic ride that complements the setting rather than competing with it.
Calico Ghost Town train ride experience
The Calico & Odessa Railroad is a narrow-gauge train that runs along a compact loop skirting the hills just outside the town. The ride lasts approximately 8 to 10 minutes, making it a quick but worthwhile addition to your visit.
As the train winds through the desert landscape, passengers pass old mining equipment, weathered structures, and stretches of terrain that closely resemble what miners would have seen in the late 19th century. The experience typically includes light narration, offering bits of historical context.
Although the current railroad dates back to the 1950s, it was built to evoke the original Waterloo Mining Railroad, which operated in the 1880s. That earlier line played a crucial role in transporting silver ore out of Calico during its peak years.
Calico, a Gold Rush-era staple
Calico was established in 1881 during a major silver strike and quickly grew into a bustling town. At its peak in the mid-1880s, it had thousands of residents, along with saloons, shops, and more than 500 active mines spread across the surrounding hills, making it one of California’s most productive silver regions.
However, the boom was short-lived. By the mid-1890s, declining silver prices made mining unprofitable, leading to the town’s rapid abandonment. Decades later, Calico was restored and transformed into a regional park that preserves its Old West character.
⏰ Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (daily)
🎟️ Ticket info: Adults $6. Children $33.50. Free for kids under 4 y/o.