World’s Largest Steam Locomotive Touring; To Pass Near Twin Falls

For southern Idaho railroad enthusiasts, there's an opportunity to see the planet's largest steam locomotive in person during a planned tour that will pass through four western states between June 30 and July 21. The run may also include parts of southeastern Idaho.

The Union Pacific Big Boy #4014 will be full steam ahead beginning June 30 as it makes its way from Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Roseville, California. The 2024 Westward Bound Tour will also give fans a chance to see it as it rides the rails through northern Nevada and southeastern Idaho, according to the current tour map. It's called "The Big Boy" for a reason, as it is the largest steam locomotive in existence.

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Getting a chance to see The Big Boy #4014 is a special event for people who have a passion for trains, and the upcoming tour will be the last chance to view it for the remainder of the year. One website does list Nampa, Idaho, as a potential stop.

Organizers of a separate 2023 event had attempted to include stops in Boise and Portland, but plans fell through. The locomotive measures 132 feet in length and weighs 1.2 million pounds, according to The Union Pacific website. More than 20 of these massive locomotives were built by the company, with the first taking its maiden voyage in 1941, according to Union Pacific.

Ogden, Utah, is just 180 miles southeast of Twin Falls, for those in the Magic Valley who want to see it in all its glory for a scheduled stop. Getting a chance to see The Big Boy #4014 is a special event for people who have a passion for trains, and the upcoming tour will be the last chance to view it for the remainder of the year. One website does list Nampa, Idaho, as a potential stop.

Click here for more details regarding the 2024 Westward Bound Tour.