The museum is located in the Bargerveen region, one of the last remaining raised bog areas in the Netherlands.
It holds one of the largest collections of industrial narrow-gauge locomotives in Europe.
The tracks utilize a unique 700mm gauge, which was standard for Dutch peat industry transport.
Many of the locomotives on display were rescued from industrial sites across Europe, including Germany and Belgium.
The site operates an original locomotive shed that was historically part of the Griendtsveen peat company infrastructure.
The Industrieel Smalspoormuseum in Erica is an open-air museum dedicated to the history of narrow-gauge industrial railways once used for peat extraction in the Netherlands. Visitors can ride restored diesel and steam locomotives through the surrounding peat moor landscapes. The site serves as a preservation center for industrial heritage, showcasing a collection of rolling stock that historically serviced the regional peat and clay industries. Beyond the train rides, the museum features a restored locomotive depot and exhibition halls detailing the social and technical history of peat processing. It functions as a living history site where visitors see active maintenance of industrial railway equipment. The narrow-gauge tracks span approximately 3 kilometers through protected nature areas.
The platform area during the departure of a steam locomotive, capturing the train against the backdrop of the peat moor.
Bring insect repellent, as the surrounding boggy nature reserve attracts mosquitoes during warmer months.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes suitable for gravel paths and outdoor terrain.
Check the official calendar for 'steam days' if you prefer to see operational steam locomotives over standard diesel engines.
Do not attempt to walk on the tracks outside of designated crossing points or museum-led tours.
Open seasonally from spring through autumn; generally closed on weekdays outside of major holidays and special event dates.
Follow all safety instructions when boarding trains; stay within designated pedestrian areas to avoid active track zones.
