Contact: Mary Verich, Lumberjack Steam Train, 715.674.3414
Season will run June 22 – August 27, 2011
LAONA, WI — The historic Lumberjack Steam Train will make its first run of the year to the Wisconsin Forestry Museum Complex on June 22, 2011. Take the whole family on a trip back in time with a ride on a vintage steam train, located in Laona, Wis., within convenient driving distance of Chicago, the Twin Cities and all points in Wisconsin.
Tickets on the Lumberjack Steam Train include the round-trip ride and admission into the Wisconsin Forestry Museum Complex of historic and natural attractions, including the Logging Museum and Blacksmith Shop, Green Treasure Forest Tour, Animal Barn and Corral, the Nature Center, Cracker Barrel Store, Francis Weiner Diesel Static Display and Choo Choo Hut Restaurant & Picnic Area. Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic coolers.
Last year, the tracks for the Lumberjack Steam Train were completely rebuilt. The original track dated to the early 1900s and had not been fully replaced, only maintained. The original 60-pound rail, which was replaced, dated from the mid- to late-1800s. The newest technical equipment was brought in to secure new 90-pound rails and raise the road bed. Green Bay-based Holubar Construction accomplished the task of bringing the railroad up to to modern federal rail standards. The rail bed has been raised about 15 inches, and new rebuilt steps and platforms are ready to help visitors get on and off the train.
Once again, visitors will be able to ride in an old box car originally built by Haskel and Barker in July 1920 and part of the Laona & Northern Railway. The vintage car has been carefully converted into an open-air observation car.
Also new in 2011 are additions to the petting zoo including kittens, goats and miniature horses.
The 2011 season will again feature a number of special events, including a cowboy reenactment and the annual fall festival. The last summer run is August 27, with fall special tours scheduled for September 17, 24 and October 1. The Lumberjack Steam Train has four runs a day to the Wisconsin Forestry Museum complex and is open Monday through Saturday, rain or shine. Group rates are available. The Lumberjack Steam Train offers free admission, with proper identification, to active duty armed services personnel and their families.
For additional information go to http://www.lumberjacksteamtrain.com or contact the Lumberjack Steam Train by phone at 715.674.3414 or by e-mail: info@lumberjacksteamtrain.com
