Photo courtesy of Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

Headless Horseman Halloween Train Ride Near Portland

All aboard for a Halloween adventure! The Headless Horseman Halloween Train Ride returns to Yacolt, Washington, on October 24 and 25, 2026, with vintage train rides, fall scenery and a visit from the legendary Headless Horseman.

Hosted by the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad, this family-friendly Halloween event takes passengers through the forests of northern Clark County aboard a historic train. Costumes are encouraged, and families can even snap a photo with the Headless Horseman.

Yacolt is about an hour northeast of Portland, making this a fun fall day trip for families looking for something different to do before Halloween.

Here’s what to know about this year’s event, including train schedules, ticket prices and how to reserve your seats.

Headless Horseman Halloween Train Ride

The 2026 Headless Horseman Halloween Train Ride takes place Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25.

Passengers board the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad in Yacolt for a scenic trip through the countryside. The historic rail route passes through wooded landscapes, crosses the East Fork Lewis River and travels toward the Moulton Falls area.

The Halloween train adds a festive twist to the usual excursion. Passengers are welcome to wear costumes, and the railroad’s resident Headless Horseman makes an appearance during the experience.

Bring your camera for a chance to take a family photo with the mysterious rider.

The event is designed for families and visitors of all ages, so expect a festive Halloween outing rather than a traditional haunted house experience.

2026 Halloween Train Schedule

The Headless Horseman Halloween Train operates on two days:

• Saturday, October 24, 2026
• Sunday, October 25, 2026

Trains are scheduled to depart at four times each day:

• 9 a.m.
• 11 a.m.
• 1 p.m.
• 3 p.m.

The railroad added an extra morning departure due to the popularity of the Halloween event.

Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to pick up your tickets and prepare for boarding.

Both indoor and outdoor seating are available, so dress for the weather. Late October in southwest Washington can be chilly and rainy.

Headless Horseman Halloween Train Tickets

Tickets for the 2026 Halloween Train are:

• Adults: $24
• Military and seniors ages 60+: $23
• Children ages 3–12: $18
• Children under 3: Free when riding on a lap

For a family of four with two adults and two children ages 3–12, tickets total $84.

This is a popular seasonal event, and departure times may sell out. Buying tickets in advance is recommended, especially if you have a specific ride time in mind.

Reserve your seats through the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad ticketing website.

Location and Parking

The Halloween train departs from:

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad
207 N. Railroad Ave.
Yacolt, WA 98675

The station is in northern Clark County, approximately an hour’s drive from Portland.

Make sure you head to the Yacolt station rather than Moulton Falls, which is part of the train’s scenic route.

For additional travel information, visit the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad website.

If you’re looking for a Halloween activity that’s a little different from pumpkin patches and haunted houses, this train ride offers a chance to enjoy the fall scenery while getting into the Halloween spirit.

More Halloween Events Near Portland

Looking for more ways to celebrate spooky season? Check out these guides:

• Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Portland
• Portland Area Haunted Houses and Corn Mazes

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