Big Boy Locomotive Rolls Back Through Utah for Nationwide Tour

The world's largest operating steam locomotive will make a return trip through the state, offering a rare chance to see the historic engine up close.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 6:04pm

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A highly stylized, geometric illustration depicting the massive scale and streamlined form of the Big Boy locomotive, rendered in bold, sweeping gradients and dramatic forced perspective to capture the sense of awe and wonder surrounding this historic train.The return of the legendary Big Boy steam locomotive to Utah offers a rare chance to experience the power and grandeur of this historic engine.Park City Today

After passing through Summit County earlier this month, the Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 locomotive will be making a return trip to Utah as part of a nationwide tour celebrating 250 years of American independence and innovation. The legendary steam engine, which stretches over 130 feet and weighs more than a million pounds, will be on display at the Ogden Union Station from April 18-19, giving railfans and families another opportunity to see the historic locomotive up close.

Why it matters

The Big Boy locomotive has a special connection to Utah, as it was specifically designed to haul heavy freight over the steep grades of the Wasatch Range during World War II. Of the 25 Big Boys ever built, only eight remain, and No. 4014 is the only one still in operation today. The train's route also echoes the long railroad history in Summit County, where much of the modern trail system traces back to former Union Pacific rail lines.

The details

The Ogden display is free and open to the public, offering a close-up look at the locomotive and accompanying cars from Union Pacific's Heritage Fleet. On April 20, the train will depart the Ogden station and make a 30-minute stop at the Morgan Depot before heading along the tracks that parallel I-84 to Echo, then east through Echo Canyon to Evanston. While rides are not available, visitors can walk alongside the train, take photos, and experience a piece of living history.

  • The Big Boy locomotive passed through Summit County on April 2.
  • The train will be on display at the Ogden Union Station from April 18-19.
  • The train will depart Ogden on April 20 and make a 30-minute stop at the Morgan Depot.

The players

Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014

The world's largest operating steam locomotive, stretching more than 130 feet and weighing over a million pounds. It was specifically designed to haul heavy freight over the steep grades of the Wasatch Range during World War II.

Union Pacific

The American railroad company that owns and operates the Big Boy locomotive as part of its Heritage Fleet.

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What’s next

The Big Boy locomotive will continue its nationwide tour after leaving Utah, traveling to Wyoming, California, and back to Cheyenne, where the western leg of the tour will wrap up on April 24.

The takeaway

The return of the Big Boy locomotive to Utah offers a rare opportunity for residents and visitors to experience a piece of living railroad history, showcasing the state's deep connection to the industry and the engineering marvels that once powered the region's economy.