Off On An Adventure, Rail Explorers Style


In our house, we have the best birthday tradition. Danny does the planning for my birthday surprise, and I just have to go along for the ride. It is the most fun I've ever had because he always picks something different and interesting. This year he took me to Boone, Iowa, to go on Rail Explorers, and it was amazing.


The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad is one of the great Iowa tourism destinations, and they've added these pedal-assist railcars to their arsenal of fun. As soon as we pulled up to the parking lot, I knew by the logo where we were.


Designed for two or four people, the seat on the right runs the motor while the passenger twirls the pedals and makes it look like she's helping. I'm very good at that part. The looking like she's helping part.


Large groups of people can go at once, leaving three railroad cars' length between each car. Most of the time it felt like we were the only ones on the tracks, which was a cool feeling.


The track they use is beautiful. There are cornfields, bridges, rocky outcroppings, a YMCA camp (?), and tons of wildlife. We saw birds, butterflies, two chipmunks, a squirrel, and a deer in just one trip out and back.


For anyone who doesn't know, I have vertigo, so Danny was a little concerned about the first bridge. It's over 150 feet high, and there's nothing on either side of the track. Talk about becoming one with nature - it could happen very quickly out here!


The first time across was a little unnerving because I was surprised, but I was able to take pictures and actually enjoy it on the way back in. Look at this picture and try to tell me that Iowa's landscape is boring. Go ahead, I dare you!


The second bridge is much lower and shows off the river. The undercurrents on the other side were no joke, but again, the landscape was absolutely gorgeous.


While the guides were turning the cars around at the halfway point, we all had a chance to rest, have a snack, and watch the river go by. It felt like summer camp, and it was so quiet and peaceful.


In no time, we were back on the rail and ready to take the route from the opposite direction. I was ready this time and took tons of pictures.


My favorite one!


Danny wanted to take our official picture at the end of the trip, with looks of victory and joy in our accomplishment. The Rail Explorers at Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad was the perfect birthday surprise. Please go if you have a chance. It's an up-close-and-personal way to see Iowa in a unique and memorable way.

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