Easter is coming next month, bringing with it the return of a beloved miniature train ride in Burnaby.
Burnaby Central Railway, a ride-on miniature (1/8 scale) railway that was built and operated by the British Columbia Society of Model Engineers, will be open for the 2023 season from Easter to Thanksgiving (April 9 to Oct. 9) at Confederation Park.
Folks of all ages can ride around the two kilometres of track, on trains propelled by miniature steam, diesel or electric locomotives. According to Burnaby Central Railway website, engines at the Burnaby park are all hand-built from drawings, patterns and castings, and then machined, welded and fabricated into finished locomotives. The steam engines are also “true” miniatures, huffing and puffing like their full-size counterparts.
The train ride, at 120 North Willingdon Avenue, five blocks north of Hastings Street, can take 20-plus passengers through the woods and across tunnels, bridges, crossovers, and spirals. One ride lasts about 10 minutes.
The railway is open to the public for rides from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with last ticket sales at 4:45 p.m.) on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Booking is now open for birthday parties and private functions.
