Railfans Love Railroad Park Resort’s Willamette Steam Locomotive
One of the best features on the grounds at Railroad Park Resort is the rare and unique Willamette Steam Locomotive. The Willamette Locomotive is rare in that there are only 6 remaining (out of 33 manufactured in total). Railroad Park Resort’s locomotive is unique because it is the only “Sport Model” (windowless cab) left in existence today. The Willamette Locomotive is very similar to the more popular and widely recognized Shay Locomotive but Willamette made many improvements in their design over the Shay. Regardless of your feelings about the best steam locomotive, Railfans and railroad novices alike love it!
Willamette Iron and Steel Works manufactured the oil fired steam locomotive in 1926 as their “Build #21”. Anderson Middleton Lumber Company purchased the locomotive as their Locomotive #2. The 87 ton locomotive was put to work by 5 different logging operations before needing a boiler rebuild. Consequently, the West Salem Machine Company rebuilt the boiler and sold the locomotive. The Medford Corporation purchased the Willamette in 1965 as their Locomotive #7. Unfortunately, diesel logging trucks were quickly replacing steam powered locomotives in the lumber industry and #7 was sold and put on display. Railroad Park Resort is the proud caretaker of this historic locomotive.
The Willamette Steam Locomotive Experience
Adults and children alike, love to climb up in the cab and imagine what it was like riding the rails. The smell of oil and steam in the air as the locomotive powered up the mountain. Imagine the sound of the three enormous cylinders driving twelve gear driven wheels climbing a steep grade. After the daydreaming is over, a great photo opportunity awaits. Pose in the Cab or with the whole family next to the gear driven wheels for an excellent photo opportunity. Please limit climbing only to the cab of the locomotive for your own safety as well to preserve our rare locomotive.
Traveling Along Highway 5
Many travelers along Highway 5 stop in just to get a photo of the Willamette Locomotive. The majestic views of the Castle Crags in the background makes the photos even more spectacular.The locomotive sits in the courtyard near the entrance to the resort under the authentic water tower. Many adventurers stop and stay a night or two in a caboose and enjoy a meal in the Dining Car Restaurant. Visitors also enjoy browsing in the gift shop where they can find railroad treasures as well as other unique gifts, including a replica of the locomotive on display in G-Scale.
Railroad Themed Vacation
Why not consider a railroad themed vacation the next time you decide to venture out for a few days with your family or friends. Sleeping in our Caboose Lodging rather than in an ordinary hotel is an experience to remember. Enjoying a steak and cold draft beer in the authentic Dining Car Restaurant that is a museum in itself. Take in the beauty of our forested natural surroundings next door to Castle Crags State Park. If you are an RV or tent Camping fan, we have you covered in our 45 space Campground with full hook up RV spaces. Dunsmuir is a historic railroad town that is visited by Railfans and train lovers from all over the world. Book a stay at Railroad Park Resort and you won’t be disappointed, ALL ABOARD!