Upcoming Events

Hand on the Throttle

April 24th, 25th, and 26th, 2026

Have you ever dreamed of operating a steam locomotive? Then make your dream come true at the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine and Steam Train in Ashland, Pennsylvania.

Join us on April 24th, 25th, and 26th, 2026 for our Hand on the Throttle experience as you operate a historic steam locomotive at an anthracite coal mine.

An experienced steam engineer will brief you on the locomotive controls, then you’ll take command of the Lehigh Valley Coal Company #123. This Vulcan-type narrow-gauge steam locomotive was built in 1927 and operated at the nearby Park Place Colliery.

Reserve your time slot for this Hand on the Throttle event at: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/pioneertunnel/2088399

When : April 24th, 25th, and 26th, 2026

Where : Ashland, Pennsylvania 1/2 hour time slots (follow link above for availability) One full trip up Mahanoy Mountain and back for each participant

Cost : $75 per person plus recommended $1 donation or more for preservation efforts (thank you!)

Age: must be 18 or older

The event will run rain or shine, and tickets are non-refundable.

All proceeds go to restoring Pioneer's second Lokie - the Lehigh Valley Coal Company #119 from the Buck Mountain Colliery.