About The Cars

The Engine

AERC 5399 was built by General Motors EMD division, on 02/1955. Its model designation is SD9. It weighs 358000 lbs and has 6 powered axles producing 1750 horses. It was built for the Southern Pacific Railroad as a road switcher. In 1965 it was repainted in scarlet red and grey and was renumbered to SP 3877. In 1977 it went through a major wiring upgrade and renumbered again as SP 4364. It was purchased by the shortline WVR in 1993 and ran the Mill City main line until 1996. It then was rented out to the Willamette and Pacific as well as the future Portland and Western. AERC 5399 was finally retired in the Late 2000s and then stored on the Valley and Siletz railroad until purchased by the AERC in 2011. The locomotive roamed the Southern Pacific Railroad systems lines mostly in Oregon and California.

The Bar Car

The Bar Car

The “Ranch Car” built in 1951 by American Railcar & Foundry is one of six originally in operation. The wood panels, cedar beams, and branding irons contribute to the western décor that can be found in the details of this car. Behind the bar you can see the Eggenhoffer mural that is boasted in all six cars. Even though the “Ranch Car” was built for coach passengers its’ design details make it truly outstanding. The AERC fondly refers to this car as “The Bar Car”. Beverages, cocktails, appetizers, dinners and other snacks will be served from this car. The Bar Car is the heart of Santiam Excursion Trains. We can seat and serve 30-40 guests comfortably.

The Open Top Flat Car

The Open Top Flat Car

AERC has reconstructed a 1969 flat car, once used as an idler car to haul large pieces of heavy equipment. With benches running the full length of this 84’ car and railings all around, the passengers on this car will enjoy the outdoor ride. With room to stand or sit the passengers will get to experience “riding the rail” on this breathtaking journey. The Open Top Car is a year round favorite. Whether you are riding in July or December you will not regret taking a moment and enjoying the fresh air.

The Baggage Car

The Baggage Car

This car was built in 1951 and was used as a baggage car on passenger trips. It has been renovated with 4 large windows that open to let in the fresh air. It has sliding doors to easily load and unload passengers safely on our excursion trips. The wide open area and view windows provide an open air feeling. This allows passengers to sit or stand and enjoy the beautiful views as you travel along the Santiam River. The Baggage car also houses our vintage popcorn machine, arts and crafts station, movie station and restrooms. During some dinner service rides you will also find seating and a buffet served here. The Baggage Car can seat and serve up to 40 guests comfortably.

The Great Northwesterner

Passenger Car GN 1099

This passenger car was built in 1947 by the famous Pullman Co. It is one of eleven cars built as lot number 6812 and plan number 7485. Originally a 56 seat coach car with a 8 seat smoking section on one end. The car was built new for the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad as CNW 841. It was sold to the Great Northern Railroad and renumbered GN 1099. It has been stored with AERC for many years until we purchased it from private hands. It is in the process of being turned into a dining car currently.

The Caboose

The Caboose

SP 4716 a 1980 caboose, was refurbished to offer exclusivity for any small group. With an inside small personal bar, an outside deck and a private restroom this ride would be perfect for any rail enthusiast or the small group party! Ask us about renting it for your next excursion.