Hostling Tour

Spend an unforgettable morning behind the scenes at the East Broad Top Railroad as you join a small group for an immersive hostling experience centered around historic Locomotive Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a rare look at how the engine crew prepares a steam locomotive for a full day of service. You will follow the crew through the railyard and roundhouse as they conduct inspections, oil and grease critical components, clean and manage the fire, introduce water treatment, and power essential systems. Along the way, you will gain a deeper understanding of steam-era railroad operations, terminology, and the daily routines that kept these powerful machines running reliably more than a century ago.

The experience also includes access to iconic areas such as the roundhouse stalls, turntable, ash pit, and the locomotive cab itself, where you will have the opportunity to step inside and see the firebox up close. Throughout the tour, there will be plenty of time for questions, storytelling, and unique photo opportunities rarely available to the public. Your visit begins at the Orbisonia Station platform with a safety briefing and waiver check-in, and concludes with access to the station and gift shop. This hands-on, educational experience is ideal for railroad enthusiasts and history lovers looking to connect with the living heritage of America’s industrial past.