Way up in the woods north of the roller coasters and water parks that the Wisconsin Dells are famed for lies a hidden gem of an attraction called The Riverside and Great Northern Railroad. In a crowded for-profit tourist oriented market, R&GN stands out as being a non-profit organization that is more a labor of love that a money making vehicle for those who run it. Staffed mostly by volunteers the Riverside and Great Northern is dedicated to the preservation of a living museum of railroad history and the maintenance of the three mile scenic rail spur "winding through scenic canyons, beautiful wooded areas, and majestic rock cuts beside the Dells of the Wisconsin River."
The perfect diversion for those suffering from theme park burn-out, it really is a venue that appeals to all ages but is especially fascinating for kids. My kids love trains and the 15 gauge railroad was totally 
captivating for them. What could be cooler for a kid than a train that is right sized for them, but it a real actual working railroad? The 6,000 lb steam locomotive that pulled our group was built in the fifties and had a coal fired boiler. The steam powered whistle could really bellow and the train easily had enough juice to pull five rail cars and about 22 people up a steep incline. The cars were all refurbished by volunteers and had a vintage feel to them. The open windows allow for great views of the scenery.
As we chugged along through the woods we were treated to the hiss of the steam pistons and the wafting 
smoke from the coal furnace. Neither the kids nor I had ever been on a steam train so it was a real treat for all of us. The rail yard was set up like an 1800's rail depot and was a good distraction for the kids while waiting for the train to depart.
The ride itself lasted about 40 minutes which was very tolerable for small children. The only real problem came when they had to be dragged out of the gift shop which was chock-a-block with Thomas the Tank Engine and a fully outfitted train table. I'm sure when we make our way back to the Dells next year we'll work in more than one visit to The Riverside and Great Northern.
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