2024 Train Ride Schedule

Take a ride on the Death Valley Brill Car N^o 5

Take a ride through Eastern California history! Ride Law’s Death Valley Brill Car #5.

Manufactured by the J.G. Brill Company, this was one of 147 self-propelled railcars often affectionally called “Doodlebugs.” 

Death Valley Brill Car #5 was purchased by the Pacific Coast Borax Company in 1927 to transport tourists from Death Valley Junction to the mining town of Ryan, 22 miles away.  This was a profitable venture for the Borax Company, and a popular three-day adventure for tourists. 

But the Great Depression put an end to such luxuries, and in 1930, the Brill Car was sent to work in the potash mines of New Mexico. After fifteen years of hard labor, wrecked and no longer operable, she was abandoned.

However, it was lovingly rescued in 1967, and was returned to Inyo County.  Restoration efforts by Laws Railroad Museum and Historical Site’s Volunteer Train Crew were completed in 2004, and our “Doodlebug” joined the proud ranks of only five of the original 147 Brill Cars of this vintage to have been restored to operating capacity.

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Ride Details:

-Each 15 to 20 minute ride is narrated by a museum docent.

-Rides can run until 3:30 pm each operating day if demand warrants the extension.

-Tickets may be purchased either in the Depot (cash only), or in the Gift Shop Reception Center (credit cards accepted)

-Prices are $8 per person, children under 18: $4 each, little ones 3 and under are free.

-Leashed pets may ride free on your lap, in a carrier, or on the floor of the railcar.

-This schedule is subject to change due to weather, mechanical break-down, pandemic restrictions or other unforeseen circumstances.

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Special Rides:

• Special charter rides for birthdays, weddings, or other special occasion can be arranged.

• Hand-car rides are also available by special arrangement.

Contact the Museum Office