Astrotourism is growing fast, and travelers are going great distances to see stars, meteor showers, and even the Milky Way. One of the most special ways to enjoy the night sky is by riding the Great Basin Star Train in Ely, Nevada.
Ely is a small, quiet town with fewer than 4,000 people, but it’s home to the famous Nevada Northern Railway. This historic railway offers different themed rides—like haunted trains, scenic routes, and holiday trips. But the most loved of all is the Star Train.
The train leaves the East Ely Railroad Depot just before sunset and travels through the scenic Steptoe Valley to a desert area known as Star Flat. Here, passengers step off the train wearing red light necklaces that help them see in the dark without affecting their night vision.
At Star Flat, telescopes are ready for everyone to look at the stars, planets, and even the Milky Way. Experts from the California Institute of Technology are there to guide guests and explain what they’re seeing. The experience lasts about three hours and lets visitors view around four celestial objects in detail.
The ride doesn’t go through Great Basin National Park, but it still offers a peaceful and natural setting perfect for stargazing.
Tickets sell out fast, so booking early is important. Ticket sales for the next year start every August, and members of the Nevada Northern Railway Museum get early access. Prices start at $65 per adult.
Visitors should dress warmly, as desert nights can get chilly. Closed shoes or boots are recommended, and guests are asked not to bring flashlights or their own telescopes.night
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