Explore the historic
HUMBOLDT BAY
HERITAGE ROUTE
What is the Humboldt Bay Scenic Railroad?
The Humboldt Bay Scenic Railroad (HBSR) is a proposed 16-mile excursion train between Eureka, Arcata, and Samoa. HBSR is a unique heritage railroading museum opportunity for the North Coast. Join the Timber Heritage Association (THA) for an interpreted train ride along the coast on the Great Redwood Trail. Learn the history of Humboldt, information about local wildlife, and the importance of preservation! Because the Redwood Coast’s logging heritage is closely linked with railroads, a Humboldt Bay Excursion Train is a central component of THA's mission.
Humboldt Bay (Wigi) is the largest bay between San Francisco and Puget Sound. The scenic bay is the heart of the Wiyot people and home to the redwood logging boom.
The cities of Eureka and Arcata, as well as the adjoining unincorporated communities of Samoa and Manila, border the bay, comprising an area population of about 65,000 people.
More than a century ago, most saltmarsh wetlands fringing the bay were diked and drained for conversion to agricultural & industrial use. Today, 75% of Humboldt Bay’s shoreline is artificial. Nonetheless, Humboldt Bay has one of the only substantial tidal salt marsh habitats between San Francisco and Oregon.
With an increasing ridership, an original Roundhouse and Shop, a stunningly beautiful location, and a large historic fleet of local logging equipment, THA is working to build an organization poised for growth in the coming years. The locomotives, passenger cars, and railroad tracks are already in place -- needing only minor upgrades and repair.
Rail & Trail
THA has been happy to work with planners for the Humboldt Bay Trail and the Eureka Waterfront Trail - designing for future rail service.
Rails-WITH-trails offer health, transportation, and environmental benefits, all while utilizing existing resources. Trail access helps enhance local transportation networks by providing non-motorized connections that are sometimes preferable to bike lanes on congested roadways. At the same time, Rail service is historically a green transportation option with great opportunities for education and recreation. The many successful rail-with-trail projects across the United States are a testament to the ability of trains and trails to coexist.
THA wishes to ensure that all future trail designs are compatible with this vision.
The Humboldt Bay Scenic Railroad provides a unique heritage logging railroading experience through thrilling Crew Car rides. In the future, interpretive train journeys along the North Coast would continue to educate visitors about local history while emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship and preservation.
The railroad serves as a physical and cultural link between the urban and rural communities surrounding Humboldt Bay. Far from being solely a benefit to THA or GRTA, the restoration of the railroad line is a project that hosts great benefits to Humboldt Bay area and the surrounding communities. From environmental protection and hazard mitigation, to increased accessibility, the railroad has the potential to both protect the beauty of the Bay, and help that beauty be experienced by many. All the while encouraging environmentally respectful tourism and economic opportunity.
Preserve & Restore
For more information about The Great Redwood Trail
For more information about The Humboldt Bay Trail
Donate
As a 501c3 nonprofit public benefit institution, the Timber Heritage Association relies on charitable contributions to preserve, restore, and operate our collection of historic artifacts, buildings, and railway vehicles.
Volunteer
Would you like to work on locomotives, railcars, or similar equipment? Handy with a hammer? Good with a camera? Savvy with a torch? Is marketing and special events your thing? Timber Heritage Association is an all volunteer organization, and there are positions for all levels of skill and experience within the organization. We would love to have your help.