1880 Train

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The World's Oldest Continuously Operated Standard-Gauge Excursion Train in the World Black Hills, South Dakota

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A Black Hills Tradition Since 1957

Minutes from Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park, the 1880 Train connects Hill City and Keystone on a 20-mile round trip through the pine-covered heart of the Black Hills. It's a two-hour narrated ride through National Forest land, past old mines and mountain views — and at 68 years running, the oldest continuously operating standard-gauge excursion train in the world. The kind of thing families come back for.

Plan Your Visit

Black Hills Central Railroad steam locomotive No. 7 approaching on the tracks, surrounded by pine forest

The Experience

Four wild horses galloping through an open green meadow in the Black Hills

Scenic Views

Watch for historic settlements, rock cliffs, mountain peaks, and forest wildlife.

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1880 Train narrator in overalls speaking to passengers inside a vintage wooden passenger car labeled Oreville

Narrated History

Learn about the mining districts and communities served by the original rail line.

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Old West gunfighter in period costume holding a rifle in a Black Hills forest clearing

Seasonal Events

From Old West shootouts to Santa’s holiday express.

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The High-Liner Eatery

Located next to the Hill City Depot and open to the public, the High-Liner Eatery offers many locally sourced and organic food options made fresh daily.

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Testimonials

The 1880 Train was a huge hit with our kids—they loved it. The views from the train are fantastic, you can see the Black Hills and the conductors were friendly and did a great job of explaining the details of the ride and the history. It was a perfect, low-stress activity that everyone in our family enjoyed.

Aswinganga Google

Our group of 17 people did this as a family! It was fun and enjoyable for everyone. The views were beautiful! My only complaint. If you riding from hill city to keystone and only doing the 15 min break is that the restrooms are far down from the train. So you have to hustle to make it back. I suggest staying the few hours in keystone, eating and shopping then taking the train back! And same if you get on in keystone to hill city. Stay and shop and EAT!

Hoss J Google

This is really a moment of history. Went from Hill City to Keystone. 1880 steam engine train ride. 10 miles took an hour to get to our destination, old mining communities were highlighted. Huge granite outcroppings nearly a foot away from the train tracks. The train stations on either end offer nice train memorabilia. And all the employees are friendly, knowledgeable and can answer most of your questions.

Vicki Z Google

Take the train!! It was a great experience. I was on the fence about going but this was a once in a lifetime experience. I took the train from Keystone, did the Stop Over in Hill City and then rode the train back to Keystone. I took a train behind the engine with windows out and an open middle car on the way back to get the experience of both. Wonderful. I would agree with others that sitting on the opposite side of the train for you ride way back is the way to go to see all the sights.

Cindy P Google

Very friendly folks who run the train who are clearly very passionate about the work that they do to keep this historic railroad alive. The round trip ride was just over two hours and included facts about the train and the surrounding areas. Everything seemed clean and well maintained, I would definitely recommend giving them a visit if you are in the area.

Shelbonzo Google

Great experience for the whole family! Beautiful views. The train moves slow, 10-15 mph. We choose the enclosed car with the padded seats and the windows can open. Otherwise the open air car has wooden seats. The workers were very friendly and served drinks and snacks on the train. The kids love it.

Kristi H Google

Peaceful train ride through the beautiful Black Hills. Both Keystone and Hill City are quaint towns for shopping. The food options are better in Hill City if you leave time for lunch in a round trip. This is the oldest continously running steam train. In Hill City take the time to watch them refill the engine with water and get it ready to head to Keystone. Great experience for young and old.

Debbie S Google

You have to buy tickets in advance. Make sure you know your times as you buy for a specific time! The train ride takes an hour and is very fun! A nice way to move through the countryside and see a lot! You can even buy popcorn for your viewing out the open windows snack. Recommend this journey for sure! The conductor guy is super fun. They are prompt so don't be late!

Emily K Google

Bring Home a Souvenir

Don’t miss the gift shop during your visit. It’s the only place to find exclusive merchandise and souvenirs in person. Looking for the perfect gift? Gift cards are available online anytime.

1880 Train staff member in red uniform assisting a customer at the gift shop counter, with train merchandise visible on shelves behind

Group Rides

Groups of 20 or more receive special discounted rates. We also offer accommodations for private events and special occasions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What towns does the train depart from?

The train operates on the original mining rail spur between the towns of Hill City and Keystone in the central Black Hills. You can start your ride from either end.

What will people see on a train ride?

The train travels through typically beautiful Black Hills scenery, with a narrated story of the historic mines, camps, and settlements you pass on the way. Much of the route follows Battle Creek, once home to gold, silver, and tin prospectors. The train passes through National Forest Service land with distant views of Black Elk Peak and Wilderness area, wooded canyons, and open meadows. Many of the original mining claims are now residential, so you'll pass an interesting variety of homes along the way.

Will my child like the train ride?

Yes! Passengers of all ages enjoy the sights and sounds. Our visitors are evenly split on how to ride with children. Some families like to break up the ride with an extended layover between legs to grab lunch or to explore the opposite town on foot. Others prefer an immediate return after using the 15-minute layover to stretch their legs, use the restroom, or grab a quick snack. You can find family-friendly attractions in both our depot towns, though please check availability outside the Memorial Day through Labor Day season. When traveling with children, please bear in mind that restroom facilities are available at the depots but not on the train itself.

How long does the ride take?

It's an hour ride each way, with a 15-minute layover time. Budget 2 1/2 to 3 hours for a complete roundtrip if you're returning immediately, or longer if you choose to make a layover.

Is parking available at your depots?

Our Hill City depot has free parking on site with handicap parking spots.

In Keystone, on-street parking lot is limited to three hours, with nearby handicap parking available. Several city and privately owned parking lots offer all-day parking for a fee and are a short walk from our depot.