The Bass Point Creek High Bridge is one of the most prominent features on the excursion route, offering significant elevation above the landscape.
The James H. Andrew Railroad Museum contains extensive archives documenting the history of the Fort Dodge, Des Moines & Southern Railroad.
The railroad operates a mix of historic equipment, including vintage diesel locomotives and periodically restored steam engines.
The line utilizes portions of track that were historically part of the interurban electric rail network connecting regional Iowa cities.
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad & James H. Andrew Railroad Museum operates heritage train excursions through the Des Moines River Valley. The facility houses a museum dedicated to Iowa's railroading history, featuring rolling stock, historic locomotives, and interactive exhibits. Visitors travel over the landmark Bass Point Creek High Bridge, which reaches heights of approximately 156 feet above the valley floor. The site serves as a preserved junction for both diesel-powered and steam-powered excursions, depending on the schedule. The museum collection documents the influence of regional rail lines on agricultural and industrial development in central Iowa. Excursions traverse varied terrain, including scenic woodland crossings and historical trackage.
The open-air excursion car platform provides the most unobstructed views of the bridge and river valley.
Book tickets for excursions well in advance, especially for themed holiday rides which sell out quickly.
Arrive early to tour the museum exhibits before your scheduled train departure.
Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the High Bridge from the passenger cars.
Do not attempt to walk along the tracks outside of designated museum areas for safety reasons.
Operations are seasonal, typically running from spring through late autumn, with specific weekend-only schedules in the shoulder seasons.
Closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking around the railyard and museum equipment.
