Vance Creek Railriders
As you begin your journey along this historic timber railroad you will see Mt. Rainier in the distance. You will pedal through fir, cedar and maple trees, and see the lush moss and fern covered edges of Goldsborough Creek which winds along through the trees. You will pedal over bridges and might see a salmon or two who have returned to the Creek along with King Fishers and other wildlife. You will be lulled by the sights, smells and silence of the countryside, while invigorated by the fresh air. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and pedal a Railrider. Please, no rushing, take time to absorb the moment.
Ride details:
The unique Railrider quadricycle has four wheels that ride the rails, four adjustable seats, and pedals that propel you along at your speed. Each Railrider features two cup holders per seat which accommodate most common 20 oz. size water bottles. Young children in car seats are welcome to ride with you strapped to the adjacent seat. All of our units are 4 seat Railriders. You will remain on your Railrider throughout the duration of your trip with a brief time to get off and stretch your legs while your guides turn around the Railriders at our mid-point.
Hours of operation
Departures are available at 9 a.m., Noon and 3 p.m., for our Camp 1 (421 W. Hanks Lake Road, Shelton, WA 98584) departure site. We are open seven days a week. Reservations are encouraged, especially during holidays, June-August, and for groups or those on a fixed schedule.
Plan to arrive early per the following guidelines:
CHECK-IN: Please check in at our departure site at 421 W. Hanks Lake Road, Shelton, WA 98584. 30 minutes prior to your departure.
We generally begin seating 15 minutes prior to departure.
A brief history of the Simpson Logging Company railroad
The Simpson Logging Company operated and maintained an extensive network of 80 miles of track used to haul timber out of the surrounding mountains and to the mills in Shelton. These rail lines were in continual use for 120 years and became the last privately owned logging railroad in operation in the continental United States. The High Steel Bridge and Vance Creek Bridge were part of this rail system and constructed in 1929 at the request of the US Forest Service (USFS) by Simpson Logging Company with contractors from American Bridge Company, part of the U.S. Steel Products Company. These impressive steel arch rail bridges were built to reach timber in the southern portion of the Olympic Mountains. The two bridges are among the highest railroad bridges built in the world.
Vance Creek Railriders take their name from the bridge that was once part of Mason County’s rich logging and lumber history. The Vance Creek Bridge has been decommissioned, but the High Steel Bridge was converted to a road in 1955 and is still in use as a truck haul route over the Skokomish River. The portion of track Railriders pedal along includes diverse trees and plants along with recently logged sections, ponds and low bridges over Goldsborough Creek. This was the route to town and to the mills which converted logs to lumber for diverse markets to build our great nation. The beauty of the area can be enjoyed as you pedal in the fresh air right down on the rails, listening to the gentle thump of the rail sections right under your feet.
Historic Rail Adventure
Step into a one-of-a-kind railbike experience and pedal along a historic logging railway through the forests of Shelton. With scenic bridges, creekside views, and a touch of railroad history, this ride turns the journey into the adventure.
Family-Friendly Ride
Bring your family or friends and enjoy an outdoor experience everyone can take part in. The four-seat Railriders make it easy to ride together, laugh together, and explore at a comfortable pace.
Guided Forest Escape
Relax and enjoy a peaceful ride through the fresh forest air while knowledgeable guides help lead the way. From quiet timberland scenery to possible wildlife sightings, it’s a refreshing escape into the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula.
Pedal through history at Simpson Logging Company Railway in Washington's beautiful Olympic Peninsula
Help us protect the forest and everyone’s
well being. Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited.
We do not allow animals to ride with you on your adventure.
For the safety of our guests and equipment,
the maximum weight allowed is 280 lbs.
All rail riders have 4 seats – if you book 2 seats, please come prepared to meet some new friends.