All aboard for fun and a dash of nostalgia—Cedar Rock Railroad is set to mark its grand reopening this Saturday at Southwest Williamson County Regional Park. Following a whirlwind of renovations, the beloved local railroad attraction is ready to once again chug along newly laid tracks.
Rolling out at 3005 CR 175 in Leander at 10 a.m., the grand reopening event promises to showcase a fleet of enhancements for the community. The shiny, new electric locomotive awaits to pull riders across three covered coaches, spaciously redesigned to comfortably seat three per seat, as per a statement obtained by Williamson County's official website. Accessibility has been elevated, allowing those in wheelchairs or scooters to board directly onto the train—a gesture that acknowledges and embraces diversity in locomotion.
Ken Knowles, operator of Cedar Rock Railroad, conveyed excitement about the launch, saying, "We are very excited to get the railroad back open with a brand-new train and new track route so folks can ride more comfortably and enjoy more natural park scenery on the train." The redesigned track will now lead passengers through a broader stretch of the park's natural beauty.
But the trains aren't the sole upgrade at this gathering spot; an expanded playscape and additional play area were also installed to serve restless children with a penchant to explore. Speaking to their vision, Knowles told Williamson County's website, "My goal has always been for this to be a destination spot for families to come hang out and let the day pass by." The Shady Oak Junction also beckons with a full depot, additional rides, picnic tables, and a mini-golf course that's on its way to completion.
The reopening event unfolds over the Memorial Day weekend, with festivities beginning Saturday and tickets for the train rides priced at $3.95 for anyone over the age of one. Cedar Rock Railroad's official website—I'm to reliably understand—is chock-full of details for those seeking more information on the attraction.
