What is a RailCycle?
A RailCycle is an easy-to-pedal vehicle designed for use on railroad tracks. RailCycles consist of a lightweight, aluminum frame, steel wheels, heavy duty brakes, and seats designed especially for comfort. While RailCycles are pedal-powered, they are much easier to pedal than a traditional bicycle.
How much does it cost? What's your pricing?
RailCycles all have 4 seats. Book your own quad cycle (4 seats) for $161.25; share your bike with a RailCycle guide (3 seats) for $120.00; or share a cycle with another couple (2 seats) for $86
Your name is "RailCycle Mt. Rainier" - how are the views of Mt. Rainier?
RailCycle Mt. Rainier is named for our “parent” organization and attraction – Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad. While there are some peek-a-boo views of the mountain, depending on how full the foliage is, the main scenic attractions are forests, pastures, and farmland!
Who can ride? Is it hard to pedal?
RailCycles are designed for virtually everyone! Our bikes are the most accessible in the industry, featuring a platform to step onto, a comfortable ergonomic seat, with many modifications for accessibility.
We have increased accessibility in the works: We are currently working on designing a pedal – assist, a wheelchair-accessible bike, as well as a hand cycle modification for those that are unable to pedal with their feet. If you would like to be part of our accessibility-advisor committee and help test our modifications, please email us at info@railcycle.com.
What's the best option for a family of 5?
Because all our RailCycles have 4 seats, we’d recommend booking your own quad cycle and then booking an additional shared cycle (2 or 3-seat options). Your party can be in “back-to-back” cycles for the excursion! If your party books a 3-seat and shared 2-seat option, we can’t guarantee you’ll be in “back-to-back” cycles, but we’ll make every effort.
Can children RailCycle?
Bring the kids! There is no minimum age limit for our RailCycles. Children under 25 lbs may ride with an adult in a front-style harness or carrier; so long as parents are able to buckle their seatbelt. Children who are able to sit up on their own must have their own seat, and use their seatbelts. Special 5-point harnesses are available for parents (and kiddos) looking for extra security. While not all children may be able to reach the pedals, they are sure to enjoy the ride.
Children are not permitted to sit on an adult’s lap during the ride, they must be in their own seat.
Do RailCycles have a weight limit?
At RailCycle Mt. Rainier, we strive to provide an enjoyable and accessible experience for all of our riders. That’s why we want to make sure that everyone is aware of our weight limit of 300 pounds per rider. Our RailCycles feature sturdy bucket-style seats that can comfortably accommodate most riders. However, we understand that some passengers may feel constrained by the sides of the seat.
If you or a fellow rider experience any discomfort due to the seat sides, please don’t hesitate to ask one of our knowledgeable guides or staff members for a seat cushion. We want everyone to have a comfortable and enjoyable ride with us.
As part of our commitment to accessibility, we are constantly working to find ways to make our RailCycles more accommodating to all riders. We understand that everyone is different, and we want to ensure that our RailCycles are accessible to as many people as possible.
What is the excursion like?
Our RailCycle trips are led by a guide in the lead RailCycle. Once you depart New Reliance, RailCycles meander through woodlands and open fields. If the weather is good and the mountain is out, riders will have multiple breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier. Traveling 1.5 miles through the beautiful hills, fields and valleys, riders arrive at our beautiful turnaround. Riders will enjoy a 35-minute layover during which guides will turn the RailCycles around for the return trip home.
Our railroad goes up and down, and twists and turns. The first half of your journey tends towards a downhill grade while the return trip home is more uphill. Railroads are built to have very slight grades, and both directions are equally enjoyable.
Each tour is accompanied by a tour guide in the lead and a tour guide in the last RailCycle.
What about bad weather?
RailCycles run rain or shine, unless weather appears particularly dangerous or imminent. RailCycling is enjoyable in almost all conditions as long as riders dress according to the weather. RailCycle guides will delay departures, or at times, cancel departures if weather poses a risk. Due to the mountainous nature of our location, thunder and lighting can be hard to predict, resulting in delayed tours or cancellations within half an hour of departure. In this event, we’ll issue customers a credit for another excursion. Severe weather events are very rare in the months that we are operational.
Rescheduling or cancellation due to inclement weather will only occur if RailCycle Mt. Rainier considers weather to be a hazard to our customers. Customer cancellations due to weather are subject to our cancellation policy. If RailCycle Mt. Rainier chooses to cancel a tour based on weather conditions, riders will receive a full refund.
Should I reserve in advance?
Yes! RailCycle tours tend to fill, so reservations are recommended.
Can we pass the RailCycle ahead of us?
Nope. Sit back and enjoy the ride. Our tours leave enough space between each RailCycle that you shouldn’t have to wait for the RailCycle ahead of you to speed up, and you shouldn’t feel like you need to pedal faster.
Aren’t there trains on the same track?
RailCyle Mt. Rainier is operated by Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad. We choose to exceed industry safety standards and only run RailCycles on isolated track, where there is no chance of a train running. We take extra security measures (derails, gates, etc.) you’ll never meet an active train on your excursion.
How long is the trip?
We ask you to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time. You should plan on a 1.5 to 2 – hour commitment per trip. Our tours start with a brief 10-minute safety orientation. The trip to and from our turnaround area is 1.5 miles each way, taking about 40 minutes. Enjoy a 35-minute layover at our beautiful turnaround spot.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Our RailCycle excursions are outdoors and open to the weather. We recommend sturdy closed toe shoes. Dress like you’re going on a leisurely hike.
What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, insect repellant, and appropriate outdoor gear. Don’t forget something to take pictures with!
Can I take photos?
Please! Tag us in your RailCycle photos to win future tickets!
What’s your cancellation/refund policy?
Conditions of Sale
1. Ticket holders must arrive prior to departure. RailCycles not occupied after the final boarding time will be released & sold to the waiting public.
2. Tickets are valid only for the date, time, and RailCycle shown on the ticket.
3. Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad and RailCycle Mt. Rainier will not be held liable for any delays whatever the cause.
4. Riders are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages or firearms on our excursions.
5. Smoking and vaping is not allowed on the premises.
6. Changes: Ticketing changes are subject to current published per-ticket change fee.
7. Refunds: All refund requests are subject to current per-ticket handling fee. Refunds will be issued for cancellations made more than 72 hours in advance. Cancellations made within 72 hours of departure are ineligible for a refund.
8. Rescheduling: Rescheduling or other changes to a booking may be made through our ticket office (253) 900-7245 and info@railcycle.com) and are subject to availability. Rescheduling within 72 hours of the scheduled departure time will result in a rebooking fee equal to 30% of the order total.
9. Your ticket purchase and/or participation in any RailCycle or train related trip/event grants RailCycle Mt. Rainier/Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad permission to use your image on its promotional materials. You may obtain a copy from the ticket office.
How do I book for a large group?
Groups of 12 people (3 RailCycles) or more are eligible for a group discount on weekday departures. Group reservations must be paid in full by a single party. To receive a 10% group discount, please contact our booking office at (253) 900-7245 and info@railcycle.com.
Are pets allowed?
Pets and emotional support animals are not allowed, however, service animals (defined as dogs or miniature horses trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities) are welcome. Please call (253) 900-7245 or email info@railcycle.com for more information.
