Living Desert Zoo Bighorn Railroad

See The Desert’s Largest Train Display

Choo Choo! Many guests and members wonder how, why, and when the infamous train display came to be at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. The Living Desert Zoo’s first train display began during the 1998 Wild Lights season as a temporary holiday display. It was such a fan favorite that it became a permanent part of The Living Desert in 2001. Over the years, the railroad has grown into a beloved and unique part of The Living Desert and one that delights guests of all ages.

Living Desert Zoo G-scale Model

The Living Desert’s Bighorn Railroad features G-scale model trains and tracks. G-scale means the size is approximately ½ inch to the foot or 1:22.5 inches (about twice the size of Lionel trains). Set on ¾ of an acre, the train display has more than 3,115 feet of track with 18 distinct inter-connected train lines. The mainline train travels on 980 feet of track and runs through Old Indio, past the Grand Canyon and alongside the mining and logging areas. The Living Desert’s Bighorn Railroad also boasts the world’s longest wooden G-scale train trestle measuring 202 feet and 8 inches.