The Nevada Northern Railway Handcar Experience
Ride the Rails Like It’s 1880!
Climb aboard one of our four-person velocipede handcars and pump your way through history! This isn’t just a ride; it’s a hands-on, heart-pumping, rail-riding adventure you won’t find anywhere else in the country.
What Makes Our Handcars Special?
These unique handcars are custom-designed to recreate the state-of-the-art 1880s railroad technology once used by track crews and telegraph workers - but with a few modern upgrades for comfort and safety.
Designed by Mason Clark, when he was a mechanical engineering student from Cal Poly Pomona, each velocipede handcar is inspired by an original 1880s telegraph handcar.
Mason gave the design a modern twist:
- Four-person pedal & pump power — everyone works together
- Comfortable seating with safety belts
- Handcrafted wood-centered wheels, just like in the 1880s
- Disk brakes for a smooth, safe ride
Your Adventure Route
The experience begins at the historic East Ely Railroad Depot in Ely, Nevada. After check-in, you’ll convoy about 20 minutes to the railroad’s Star Flat staging area — a short trip with a few miles on gravel roads.
How Hard Is It?
This is human-powered fun — you’ll be pumping with both arms and legs, just like the railroad crews of the 1880s! While it’s not extreme, it is physically demanding.
- Ages 10+
- Under 300 lbs per person
- Must have full use of arms and legs
Safety Briefing
Learn how to operate your handcar.
Ride the Hi-Line tracks high above the scenic Steptoe Valley.
You’ll gain nearly 100 feet of elevation over a 5-mile stretch.
At the turnaround point, catch your breath and soak in the views.
The return trip is downhill and oh-so-smooth!
What to Wear & Bring
Be prepared for the high desert climate, we’re typically 20–30°F cooler than Las Vegas!
Closed-Toe Shoes
Long Pants
Hat & Sunscreen
Water Bottle
Ready to Ride?
This isn’t just a ride — it’s a living piece of railroad history. Pump, glide, and laugh your way across the HiLine for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Seats are limited, reserve your spot today!
