Ride the Historic Snoqualmie Valley Train in North Bend WA
A vintage adventure through time, trees, and small-town charm
If you’re looking for a relaxing, low-key activity that’s fun, scenic, and totally unique to the Snoqualmie area, hop aboard the historic Snoqualmie Valley Train. It’s a beautiful throwback experience—complete with vintage railcars, slow travel vibes, and stops in two of the most charming little towns around.
Perfect for couples, especially on a slower day when you want to explore without lacing up your hiking boots.
🚂 What Is It?
The Snoqualmie Valley Railroad, operated by the Northwest Railway Museum, offers 5-mile roundtrip rides on historic trains between Snoqualmie and North Bend, with an optional stop at the Railway History Campus and Train Shed exhibit. It’s a chance to step back in time—riding in railcars from the 1910s–1950s while enjoying views of forests, rivers, and (of course) Snoqualmie Falls.
The full ride lasts about 75 minutes, with opportunities to hop off, explore, and take photos along the way.
🗺️ Suggested Date-Day Itinerary
Here’s a cozy way to make a full little day out of your train adventure:
Stop 1: Start in Historic Snoqualmie
- 🛍 Pop into a few local shops on Railroad Ave (antiques, art, gifts)
- ☕ Grab coffee or a pastry from The Bindlestick or Snoqualmie Falls Bakery
- 📸 Snap a few photos at the depot or with the stationary engines outside
Stop 2: All Aboard!
- 🎟 Buy your tickets online or at the Snoqualmie Depot
- 🚂 Ride the train from Snoqualmie to North Bend and back again, with narration and slow scenic views along the way
- 🌲 Keep an eye out for river crossings, forest glades, and glimpses of Snoqualmie Falls
- 🏛 Optional: hop off at the Train Shed Exhibit Hall to see restored engines and train history up close
Stop 3: Lunch or Dessert in North Bend
- 🥪 Walk from the North Bend Depot to grab lunch at Little Si Restaurant, Rio Bravo, or Georgia’s Bakery
- 🍦 Or just grab a scoop from Laconia Ice Cream and enjoy it outside with a mountain view
Stop 4: Back to Snoqualmie
- 🪑 Return to the depot and either wrap up the ride or continue your exploration of Snoqualmie Falls, just a short walk or drive away
❤️ Why It’s Great for Couples
- It’s charmingly slow-paced – time to just be together and enjoy the ride
- It’s unique and nostalgic – feels like a mini time-travel adventure
- There are photo ops everywhere – great for casual couple selfies or vintage-style shots
- It pairs well with other activities – easy to combine with cafés, shops, or a waterfall walk
📅 Need-to-Know Details
- Seasonal operation – usually runs weekends April through October, plus special events (like fall colors and holiday trains!)
- Tickets – around $20 per adult for a roundtrip ride
- Reserve in advance on the Northwest Railway Museum website during peak weekends
Final Thoughts
Riding the Snoqualmie Valley Train is one of those sweet, slow travel experiences that sticks with you long after the ride ends. It’s a great way for couples to relax, take in the scenery, and experience the magic of this little corner of Washington in a totally different way.
All aboard for a date you won’t forget.
