Union Pacific’s “Big Boy” – Cambria County Viewing Locations and Events
As part of the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, Union Pacific’s legendary Big Boy No. 4014 is making its first-ever East Coast tour, giving communities across Pennsylvania a rare opportunity to see the world’s largest operating steam locomotive in action. On Saturday, July 11, the locomotive will enter Cambria County, pass through the New Portage Tunnel in Gallitzin, and then stop in Cresson from 10:45 AM to 11:15 AM before continuing west through South Fork and East Conemaugh, then into Johnstown, where it will cross the iconic Stone Bridge as it travels toward Pittsburgh. Details about key locations and their accompanying activities are listed below!
(For safety’s sake, DO NOT attempt to venture onto or near the tracks for a better view, a selfie, or any other photography. This is a 600-ton locomotive and tender with several cars and a diesel locomotive backup. If you get too close or fall on the tracks, it’s not going to stop. Railroad police can and will arrest you for trespassing. Stay safe and enjoy seeing this piece of railroad history!)
The Big Boy will pass through the New Portage Tunnel in Gallitzin at approximately 10 AM. Portage St., Pine St., and Spruce St. will close at 8 AM. Sandusky Street will be open, but be aware of heavier traffic than normal. Big Boy can be viewed from the Main Street Bridge and Fabbri Railfan Park adjacent to the bridge. Parking will be available at the Gallitzin Athletic Field, located on Franklin St. The Gallitzin Fire Company will be selling breakfast sandwiches and coffee. Be sure to visit the Gallitzin Tunnels Park & Museum afterwards. The museum’s hours are noon – 4 PM Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Cresson is preparing for large crowds as the train makes a scheduled stop at the wooden train platform on Front Street. The locomotive is expected to arrive around 10:45 AM and depart around 11:15 AM, giving visitors about 30 minutes to see the historic steam engine. Food trucks will be on site, several local businesses plan to open early, and shuttle service will be available from Mount Aloysius College. Front Street will be closed to vehicle traffic beginning the Thursday before the event, and visitors are encouraged to use designated parking areas and follow event safety guidelines.
Visitors planning to see Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 near Lilly/Cresson can reserve one of the remaining VIP parking spaces at the Keystone Regional Fire Rescue Department – Cresson Station for $30 per vehicle. Parking opens at 7 AM, is available all day, and includes space for as many passengers as the vehicle can legally carry. The parking area is just a short walk from Railroad Park, restaurants, shops, and other local attractions, allowing visitors to enjoy the festivities before and after the train’s arrival. Camping is also available at the Lilly Pavilion, located right along the railroad tracks, for $30 per night with a two-night minimum stay, making it easy to turn the event into a weekend getaway. To reserve VIP parking, call or text Dylan at (814) 937-8343 or Ben at (814) 414-6406. For camping reservations, call or text Julia at (814) 931-2121.
Visitors looking for another scenic place to watch the train pass through should consider the Cassandra Railroad Overlook & Park. Overlooking the former Pennsylvania Railroad mainline, the park offers an elevated vantage point to watch the historic steam locomotive as it travels through the valley. The overlook is a popular destination for railfans year-round and provides an excellent setting to experience and photograph one of the world’s largest operating steam locomotives as it passes through the region.
South Fork will welcome Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 with a community celebration hosted by the South Fork Historical Society at 427 Maple Street. Festivities begin at 10:30 AM with light refreshments, while American flags will be handed out to the first 100 attendees. Visitors can also enjoy local vendors, family-friendly activities, and live music before the locomotive is expected to pass through town around noon. Thanks to the elevated railroad bed, spectators will have a unique viewing opportunity as the historic steam locomotive travels through South Fork.
The East Conemaugh Eagles Club will offer a free public viewing area as the legendary steam locomotive passes directly behind the club. Visitors are encouraged to stop by between 11 AM and 1 PM for one of the area’s closest views of the train, making it an ideal spot for photos and gathering with family and friends. The viewing location is behind the club and is free to the public.
Visitors planning to watch the train pass through Johnstown should note that Washington Street between Johns Street and Roosevelt Boulevard will close beginning at 11 AM. This will provide visitors with the perfect viewpoint as the locomotive passes over the iconic Johnstown Stone Bridge. Food trucks, including Lizzie’s Wagon and Kona Ice, will be on site selling food and refreshments. After experiencing this historic event, visitors are encouraged to stick around and explore Johnstown’s local shops, restaurants, and attractions to make the most of their visit!