Every winter the Mount Hood Railroad trades orchard views for a holiday storybook. From roughly November into early January the railroad runs THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride, a themed excursion based on the Christmas picture book, and it has become one of the biggest family traditions in the Columbia Gorge. Tickets are sold separately from the regular scenic trains, and the ride has its own casting calls for performers, which tells you how much production goes into the evening. The format is the familiar one for these holiday trains: children are invited to wear pajamas, and the evening typically includes a telling of the story, hot chocolate and characters from the book, building toward a North Pole theme at the end of the line. Details vary from season to season, so confirm what is included when you book. The setting does a lot of the work. Instead of a flat suburban line, the train climbs through a snowy-looking valley after dark, with the lights of the town falling behind and the orchards bare. Mount Hood is invisible at night, but the cold, the dark forest and the glow of the cars create a convincing winter mood, and children who are the right age tend to believe every moment of it. For adults the appeal is simpler: a well-run seasonal event that gives the family a shared memory without a long drive to a distant snow park.
Book as early as the schedule opens, because popular dates and the most comfortable seat classes sell out well ahead of time. Weekend evenings and the dates closest to Christmas go first, so flexible families should look at weekday or early-season departures. Seat classes mirror the railroad's other trains, with standard seating and upgraded options that offer tables and more space, and the details change from season to season, so check the current offer when you reserve.
Dress for the weather rather than the theme. The Hood River Valley can be cold, wet or snowy in winter, and you will walk outdoors between the parking area, the depot and the train. Layers, waterproof shoes and gloves are sensible, and a spare pair of dry socks for small children is a good idea.
Pajamas are welcome and encouraged, but pair them with a warm coat. Arrive early, because boarding for a themed event takes longer than for a regular ride, and allow time to park, collect tickets and let children look at the decorated depot.
Winter driving matters in the gorge. Check road and weather conditions on Interstate 84 before you leave, carry chains if you are driving over the mountain, and consider staying overnight in Hood River so that the return trip is not a late-night drive in snow. A hotel in town also lets you add other seasonal activities, such as downtown shopping on Oak Street and a hot drink at a waterfront cafe.
The event suits young children best, usually those in the preschool through primary school years, while older children and adults will enjoy it if they like the story. Confirm age policies, ticket requirements for infants and any sensory considerations with the railroad when you book.
What to expect
The experience
A themed evening train ride based on the Polar Express story, with on-board characters, a reading of the tale and hot chocolate, from the Hood River depot into the valley.
Best time
Late November through December; weekdays and early-season dates are easier to book.
How long
Roughly one and a half to two hours; confirm the current schedule when you book.
Tips
Book early. Dress warmly under pajamas. Arrive well ahead of boarding. Check winter road conditions and consider staying in town.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with young children who want a winter tradition.
- Families
- The core audience, especially preschool and primary school ages; check age and infant policies.
- Couples
- Charming if you enjoy the story, but a regular scenic train is a better date.
- Pair with
- A night in downtown Hood River and a morning on Oak Street.
- Time needed
- An evening, including arrival and boarding.
Good questions
When does the Polar Express run?+
From roughly November into early January. Dates and times change each year, so check the railroad's calendar.
Is it included with a regular train ticket?+
No. The holiday train is sold separately from the spring, summer and harvest trains.
Should my children wear pajamas?+
Pajamas are popular and welcome, but wear warm outer layers because you walk outdoors in winter conditions.
How early should I book?+
As soon as dates are released. Weekends and the days near Christmas sell out first.
Is it only for young children?+
It suits young children best, but older children and adults who enjoy the story are welcome.
