The railway was built in the 1950s by the local Pioneer organization as a socialist educational project.
The locomotive Katka is a U36.003 steam engine, manufactured in Budapest, making it over 140 years old.
It is the only railway of its kind in Slovakia where children are trained for and perform various station duties.
The track gauge is 1,000 millimeters, which is unusual compared to standard narrow-gauge railways in the region.
The line has been declared a national cultural monument of Slovakia.
The railway features a specialized open-air carriage fleet designed for summer sightseeing.
The Košice Children's Railway is a historical narrow-gauge line operating in the Čermeľ Valley, uniquely featuring children in operational roles alongside adult professionals. Originally constructed as the Pioneer Railway in the 1950s, the line spans approximately 4.2 kilometers between Čermeľ and Alpinka. It retains the historic steam locomotive 'Katka,' built in 1884, which remains the oldest operational steam engine in Slovakia. The track winds through the scenic forested foothills of the Volovské vrchy mountains. It operates as a heritage railway managed by local enthusiasts and volunteers. The route concludes at the Alpinka recreation area, which serves as a trailhead for various forest paths.
The Čermeľ station platform while the steam engine is departing.
Bring a light jacket, as temperatures in the forested Čermeľ Valley are often lower than in the city center.
Check the official website for steam locomotive schedules, as they only operate on select days compared to diesel locomotives.
Plan for extra time at the Alpinka terminus to walk the surrounding woodland trails.
Do not assume the steam engine is running every day; check the schedule beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Operates primarily from spring through autumn; service is limited or suspended during the winter months.
Maintain caution near the tracks and strictly follow staff instructions during boarding.
