Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Prairie Dog Central Railway?
The Prairie Dog Central Railway is a short line railway owned and operated by The Vintage Locomotive Society, Inc. a Registered Charity, all-volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation and operation of a vintage steam locomotive and train.

Do I need reservations? Click here for ticket sales.

Where does the train leave from?
Inkster Junction Station is located on Prairie Dog Trail on the north side of  Inkster Boulevard between Route 90 and Sturgeon Road.  Click here for a map.

When should I arrive at the station?
We recommend arriving at the station no later than 30 minutes prior to departure to allow sufficient time for parking, ticketing, washroom stops and boarding the train.

How long is the trip and where does it go?
Events normally depart at 11:00 am and after a short trip and stop at Grosse Isle  and/or Warren, the arrival time back at Inkster Junction Station is usually about 2:30 pm (Please note that arrival times are approximate).

Does the train run if it's raining?
Absolutely -- we operate rain or shine! 

What do I need to wear?
Remember to dress appropriately for the season.  Don't forget sunglasses, cameras and sunscreen.  During the Halloween Express, we suggest that you dress according to the weather.

Can we get off the train during the trip?
Absolutely.  As mentioned, there are generally two Station stops along the route: Grosse Isle and Warren.

Can we bring a child's stroller on the train?
Certainly.  The stroller will be safety transported in your Coach or placed in our Baggage Car and made available for you at the major station stopover of the day.

Are there washrooms on the train?
There are no washrooms on board the train.  Modern washroom facilities are located at Inkster Junction Station, and portable toilet facilities are at Grosse Isle and Warren.

Is the train handicapped accessible?
Unfortunately, no.  The coaches were constructed in the early 1900’s and the doorways and aisle ways are too narrow to accommodate wheel chairs.  However, if a person does not require a wheelchair for total mobility, and can climb three to four stairs while being aided by our On Board Staff, they are more than welcome.  Their wheelchair will be safety transported in our Baggage Car and made available for their use at the major station stopover of the day.

Do you have safety rules for passengers?
Safety is the top priority of every railway in Canada, and especially so with railways carrying passengers.  During your trip, we ask for your own personal safety that you please do not walk between the coaches.  If you must go from one coach to another please ask one of our On Board Staff to assist you.  In general and for your own safety and the safety of members of your family or group we ask that while on the railway property, to refrain from climbing on or going under any railway equipment, walk on the tracks or enter into any restricted buildings or areas.

Are there special rules for children?
At all times, children must be accompanied by an adult, especially when entering or exiting cars, and when viewing the locomotive.  When children ride free, they are expected to remain in the lap of an adult while seated.

Can I bring my dog on the train?
No, unless the animal is used for Seeing Eye or Hearing purposes.

Can we eat on the train?
Certainly, but please use the trash receptacles.  Refreshments are also allowed on board the train, as long as they are non-alcoholic.  Ice chests, hard-case coolers and picnic baskets can be brought on board the train.

Can I bring alcoholic beverages on board the train?
No, Provincial and Federal regulations prohibit the carrying and consumption of alcohol.

Is smoking allowed?
Our Station and passenger cars are strict non-smoking areas.  Smoking is allowed only in outdoor areas and we would request that the cigarette butt receptacles be used at the Station area.

Still looking for more information that we haven't provided an answer to?
Send us an e-mail, call (204) 832-5259 or send a fax to 1-866-751-2348 (toll free within North America).