Posted on by Chris Hauf

Trips from PLA’s past – 1968 Truckee Limited

On May 30, 1968, the PLA operated the first of its Truckee Limiteds over the Southern Pacific. The trip was a round trip one day adventure from Oakland to Truckee, California and return. This was one and only time one of the three unique SP DH643 hydraulics pulled a passenger train.

The Pacific Locomotive Association, the owner and operator of our Niles Canyon Railway, was initially founded as a group to be able to organize and run trips behind the then disappearing steam locomotive. While the group quickly shifted into railway preservation in the late 1960s, it never lost its trip operating roots.

On May 30, 1968, the PLA operated the first of its Truckee Limiteds over the Southern Pacific. The trip was a round trip one day adventure from Oakland to Truckee, California and return. This was one and only time one of the three unique SP DH643 hydraulics pulled a passenger train.

Here are several photos of the special train that day running over Donner Pass.

Eastbound west of New Castle – Jim Evans photo – Used with permission
On now gone track #1 above Donner Lake – Jim Evans photo – Used with permission
Westbound ready to leave Truckee after going around the balloon track – Jim Evans photo – Used with permission

Did you ride this trip? Do you have anything interesting about the trip you could share with us as we continue to document our history? Please contact us if you do.

Thanks!