Rail enthusiasts and history buffs, mark your calendars! The Feather River Rail Society has announced that the Western Pacific Railroad Museum in Portola will host a major event on Wednesday, April 8th, featuring Union Pacific’s legendary Big Boy No. 4014.
As the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, Big Boy No. 4014 is a true marvel of engineering. Of the eight remaining Big Boy locomotives in existence today, No. 4014 is the only one still in operation, making this upcoming appearance part of the “Union Pacific Coast to Coast” tour a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the public to see the massive engine in person.
The Big Boy locomotives are icons of American railroading, originally commissioned in 1941 to haul heavy freight in support of the war effort. These giants are an incredible 133 feet long and weigh 1.2 million pounds. To handle their immense size and navigate track curves, the locomotives utilize a unique “hinged” or articulated frame with a 4-8-8-4 wheel arrangement.
After retiring in 1961 with over 1 million miles on its odometer, No. 4014 was restored by Union Pacific and returned to service in 2019 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad.
The Western Pacific Railroad Museum in Portola will open its gates at 9:00a.m. and remain open until 5:30p.m. on the day of the event. Beyond viewing the historic locomotive, the museum has planned a full day of activities, including opportunities to enjoy caboose train rides and motorcar rides starting at 10:30, as well as tours of the museum’s impressive collection of historic equipment.
Please note that access to the Big Boy viewing area and all museum activities requires paid admission and the use of an entry wristband. While Feather River Rail Society members receive free admission, they must present their membership cards at the gate to receive their wristbands.
Because parking at the museum is limited, visitors are encouraged to arrive early. General admission for non-members is $20 for adults, $10 for those aged 5-18, seniors 65 and over, and active military, while children 4 and under may enter for free. Advanced tickets can be purchased at the Western Pacific Railroad Store website.
