Witness The Historic Shay #12 Steam Engine Return Home to California

FISH CAMP, CA, February 5, 2026— A rare and historic moment in California rail history is set to unfold as Shay #12, a nearly century-old steam locomotive, returns to California to join Shay #10 and Shay #15 at the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad. Built in April 1926, Shay #12 is a 60-ton, three-truck Shay steam engine that powered logging operations for the Swayne Lumber Company and the West Side Lumber Company. After a few decades away, Shay #12 is coming home for a full restoration, with the goal of returning to service in 2026 to celebrate its centennial year. 

Shay engines were specifically designed to maneuver steep grades and tight curves, common in logging railroads. The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad will become one of the very few heritage railroads in the United States to own and preserve three operational-era Shay locomotives, a remarkable achievement in historic railroad preservation. Housing three Shay locomotives onsite offers an unmatched opportunity to see logging, engineering, and Sierra Nevada history firsthand. 

This homecoming offers local news stations a one-of-a-kind visual and storytelling opportunity. Shay #12 will be transported by road, creating an opportunity to capture footage of this historic steam engine moving through California's Central Valley and up into the Sierra Nevada foothills. 

Filming opportunity & timing: 

Monday, February 9, 2026

Approximately 6:00 AM - Shay #12 passes through Fresno, Highway 99 to the Highway 41 corridor. 

Approximately 8:00 AM - Shay #12 arrives at Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad 56001 Highway 41, Fish Camp, CA, 93623

The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad opens for its 61st season this spring, and the arrival of the Shay #12 adds powerful momentum to an already exciting year ahead. The beloved railroad welcomes guests aboard a lineup of signature experiences, including the popular Yosemite Jazz Train, the Moonlight Special, and the theatrical Moonlight Melodrama, under the stars. Stay up to date with the signature offerings and train times at ymsprr.com.