June 19, 2026 - The historic Union Pacific “Big Boy” steam locomotive is scheduled to soon visit Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania.

The East Broad Top Railroad in Rockhill Furnace is planning a day of events July 8 to mark the occasion, expecting thousands of rail fans to line the tracks to see the engine.

The “Big Boy” locomotive, which stretches more than 130 feet long and weighs more than 1.2 million pounds, is considered a once-in-a-lifetime sight by many railway enthusiasts. 

To celebrate the “Big Boy” appearance, East Broad Top Railroad will host activities throughout the day. Events at the Historic Hunt Tower will include serving hot dogs and drinks, along with holding “railroad conversations” for attendees.

Sales Director Andrew Greene for East Broad Top Railroad emphasized the significance of the locomotive’s visit.

“Standing next to it and seeing it go past, really, it’s a religious experience if you’re an industrial nut,” Greene said. “And to have something like that, which was never intended to run in Pennsylvania, coming right next to us, right on our doorstep, is something that the public really needs to see. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that may or may not ever be recreated.”

Following the “Big Boy’s” visit, East Broad Top Railroad will also host a special Mountain Twilight Excursion on its own historic steam engine. This two-hour trip will depart from Rockhill Furnace at 5 p.m. July 8 and will be the only train operating on the East Broad Top Railroad that day.

The Mountain Twilight Excursion, departing Rockhill Furnace, will provide an additional experience for visitors following the “Big Boy” locomotive’s appearance.