Zilker Eagle: The Little Train That Could Returns to Austin

After a nearly five-year hiatus, the Zilker miniature train has made a triumphant return to Zilker Park. The train, which has been a staple in the park for decades, is once again delighting locals and visitors alike with its nostalgic charm and scenic rides.

Those who grew up in Austin likely have cherished childhood memories of warm days spent catching a breeze on the miniature train. The 20-minute journey around the park provides a fun activity for families as riders feel the wind in their hair and cheerfully wave to fellow park-goers.

Originally known as the Austin Eagle, the train’s legacy dates back to 1961 when a toy store owner joined forces with a railroad worker to create the first Zilker Park mini train. It quickly became a popular attraction, captivating generations of Austinites with its leisurely journeys through the park. 

The journey of Austin’s beloved mini-train

In 1985, lawyer Charlie Beall purchased the operation, and the new Ashley and Jenny trains were unveiled, each named after his daughters, with blue and green hues to match their respective eye colors. Charlie’s wife Carlene opened the souvenir shop and recruited students from the Texas School for the Deaf to paint murals inside the tunnel. 

Beall’s two trains delighted passengers for more than a decade until a shift in ownership to Texas Special resulted in the train being renamed to Zilker Zephyr in the late 1990s.

However, in May 2019, heavy rains washed away some of the embankment supporting the tracks, resulting in a temporary closure. The repairs would have been too costly and complex for a small business to take on, which prompted the City Council to turn to the Austin Parks Foundation for assistance in fundraising and rebuilding.

Zilker Eagle returns with new tracks, a new locomotive and enhanced accessibility

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of local enthusiasts, community leaders, and generous donors, the beloved train and its tracks were revitalized to embark on a new chapter in its storied history. 

However, the process to restore it has not been straightforward. The APF researched mini train manufacturers and ultimately hired Phoenix-based company Railway Factory to build a new locomotive, six coaches, and new tracks and switches. Enhancements to the train, along with a vibrant rainbow mural adorning the tunnel under Barton Springs Road, as well as a wheelchair-accessible boarding platform, were added to improve the overall experience. A contest was held to choose a new name for the train, and the winning entry, the Zilker Eagle, pays homage to the amusement ride’s original name.

“The train at Zilker is a big deal,” says Colin Wallis, CEO of the Austin Parks Foundation. “I feel like everybody has a story about the first time they rode the Zilker Eagle. People just have these really cherished memories about it. It’s now been out of commission for almost 5 years, and we’re just excited to bring it back.”

Ashley Beall reflects on growing up on the train and its cherished legacy

Ashley Beall, daughter of previous train owners Charlie and Carlene Beall, reminisces on her own fond memories of growing up around the Zilker Eagle. 

“My parents bought the train when I was 6 months old, so most of my childhood was there,” shares Beall. “I remember sitting on a stool at the ticket booth window as a preschooler and exchanging cash for train tickets with my dad watching over me. My mom ran the souvenir shop in the train depot, and many of our birthday parties were at the pavilion next to the train tracks…I didn’t realize how cool and unique that was until I was older.”

For the younger Beall and many other native Austinites, the Zilker miniature train holds a special place in their heart. 

“I might be biased, but to me, the train is the number one activity for kids in Austin, and I feel sad that it’s been gone for five years, but so excited for this new chapter and for a new generation of kids to experience it, especially my nieces Charlotte and Sophie who are 5 and 3 years old,” explains Beall. 

Revitalized and ready to create new generations of memories in Austin

With a bright, shiny, new train and increased accessibility features, the Zilker Eagle is poised to create new memories for generations to come. The reopening of the Zilker Eagle not only brings joy to the community, but also signifies a commitment to preserving Austin’s cultural heritage and iconic landmarks. 

“We’ve really spent a lot of energy engaging and honoring the families and the people that brought it to us in the first place,” says Wallis. 

After completing its revitalization, the Zilker Eagle is ready to embark on a new chapter. Whether it’s waving at passers by or sharing laughter with loved ones, the return of the Zilker Eagle marks a joyous occasion for the entire community to celebrate.

Learn more at www.zilkertrain.org and plan your visit to ride the Zilker Eagle.

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