Help Rebuild Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Future After Fire

On April 30th, 2025, a catastrophic fire destroyed Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s largest wooden trestle—a 28-span bridge between Mineral and Morton that had been fully rebuilt just 20 years ago and was still structurally sound.

This wasn’t just a bridge. It was the backbone of our future: the critical connection that would allow both freight and passenger service to return to Morton. After years of work, planning, and progress, we were finally on the brink of a new era—ready to restore service, revitalize the communities we serve, and build long-term financial sustainability for the railroad.

Just hours before the fire, we received confirmation that our long-fought purchase of the railroad was complete. After years of sweat and sacrifice, the dream was within reach.

And then… it burned.

We arrived on site and stood there, the air thick with the stench of burning creosote. We were too late.

Bridges do not spontaneously combust. This was not an accident of weather or wear. It was an act—whether careless or intentional—and it has destroyed a vital piece of regional infrastructure and derailed millions in future economic impact.

We are heartbroken. We are angry. And we are not giving up.

We’ve spent the last two and a half years rebuilding this railroad mile by mile, carrying more passengers than ever, opening access, clearing track, and setting the stage for full recovery. That future is now in jeopardy.

We’re launching this fundraiser to help reopen the railroad. Donations will go toward whatever that now requires—including insurance deductibles, legal costs, and eventually, bridge replacement and recovery planning. We are still assessing the full scope of the damage, but we know this: we cannot do this alone.

If you’ve ever believed in the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad—if you’ve ridden our trains, supported our mission, or care about the future of small towns like Morton and Mineral—we need you now.