Ride the Rails by the Lake and River

The Lake Superior and Mississippi Railroad was in operation until 1877 when it was sold and became a part of the Northern Pacific System. This was the first railroad linking the Twin Cities and Duluth. The first passenger trains began operating in the fall of 1870. The railroad relocated after 1877 in order to eliminate the curves and ease the grade between the western part of Duluth and the town of Carlton. This new line split up the route at what is not the Lake Superior Zoo. The original route continued as the Northern Pacific System that rain train service to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin until the 1930's. The present day system of the Lake Superior and Mississippi Railroad incorporated in 1981 and became the Lake Superior Transportation Club. Visitors to Duluth can now hop aboard this historic railroad and tour the original rails that were used during the height of freight travel.

The trip takes riders along the shore of the St. Louis River estuary on a one and a half hour ride. The train also passes Spirit Lake and Mud Lake. While on board, riders are able to view wildlife and the beautiful scenery of the river and the surrounding lands. The ride gives train enthusiasts a chance to ride on the 130 year old rail, featuring the original curves that were worked out over time as the rail changed. You will board the restored coaches that are more than 80 years old and hear a narration of the history of how the rails were back in the day during the early days or railroading.

The railroad is operated by a volunteer, non-profit group and the track is owned by both the Burlington Northern Santa Fe freight track age and the City of Duluth. The track is maintained by the Lake Superior and Mississippi Railroad. Riders are pulled by the General Electric Center Cab 50T Type Industrial Switcher that was created in 1946. It was donated in 1985 by the Flambeau Paper Company in Park Falls, Wisconsin. This locomotive is similar to one operated in the Duluth Union Station at one time.

Riders travel in one of two coaches, or in The Safari Car. Coach 29 was built in 1912 and was remodeled in 1939. It is very similar to its original state. Coach 85 was also built in 1912 and was converted into a crew bunk car, but refurbished with seats in the 1950's. These cars were purchased by the Lake Superior and Mississippi Railroad and rebuilt in an effort to recreate the rail experience for riders. They are safe and restored, but every attempt was made to keep them in their original form. The Safari Car was built by Siems-Staubel, Co., of St. Paul, Minnesota in 1928. It was donated by the Hallett Dock Company and converted to passenger use by the volunteers. This provides riders of the railway an open air trip during their ride.

The railroad operates from mid-June until early October during the weekends. There are also rides on July 3rd and Labor Day. Departure occur at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. The cost of an adult ride is $10.50 and children's rides are $6.50. Kids under three ride for free. If you are in search of a unique rail experience that allows you to travel the tracks of an authentic 1800's railway, pay a visit to this Duluth station.