B2E for Nicolas

That's "Best Birthday Ever" according to Nicolas!

We just got back from a ride on the Niles Canyon Historic Railroad as part of his birthday weekend. This day was all about him (just like the anniversary was all about us and Lea's B-ball game was all about her and Julia's Borders adventure was all about her). This season the Niles Canyon Railway is running a double headed steam train up and down the narrow canyon and it is quite the experience!

They had about 5 historic cars running behind the steam engines and Nicolas wanted to spend his time in one of the open cars where he could hear the train and feel the wind on his face. We leaned out and watch the train bend around the turns and chug across the historic bridges.

The train was belching smoke and steam and you could feel the spray as the engines blew of extra steam. The whistle seemed to be extra loud as we went through a few grade crossings which included a few historic wigwag signals.

The train ran between Niles and Sonol in the east bay and takes about 25 minutes each way.

We caught the train in Sonol and rode down to Niles.

On the return trip we rode right behind the engines in an open car and you could smell the smoke and feel the steam and spray. Nicolas leaned out the side and watch as the engineers guided the train up the canyon.

What an amazing experience and one I highly recommend to anyone looking for a local adventure!