Texas State Railroad

The Texas State Railroad is a heritage railway in East Texas that operates vintage trains on a 25-mile round-trip route between Palestine and Rusk through forested countryside. The line features restored steam and diesel locomotives that pull vintage passenger cars equipped with dining and observation areas for multi-hour journeys.

The railroad was founded in 1883 and originally built by inmates from Rusk Penitentiary to transport raw materials for prison iron smelting operations. Over time it transformed into a public passenger service and received official status as Texas's state railroad in 2003.

The railroad represents a living connection to East Texas heritage, attracting visitors who seek hands-on experiences with historic rail travel and the region's industrial past. The route itself has become a symbol of regional identity, drawing families and enthusiasts to experience the landscape and pace of earlier transportation eras.

Trips operate seasonally from spring through fall, with most departures scheduled during the afternoon and lasting several hours round-trip. Visitors should dress appropriately for outdoor exposure and be prepared for temperature variations, as some cars offer limited climate control during the journey.

The railroad was built by prison inmates as part of their labor, a fact that connects the line to the region's broader industrial and penal history. This unusual origin makes it one of the few railways in the country with direct ties to incarceration and infrastructure development.