Chautauqua CountyNY
Chautauqua County officials are encouraging residents and visitors to safely enjoy a once-in-a-generation opportunity this summer as Union Pacific’s famed Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, makes a scheduled whistle-stop in Ripley, New York, on its historic 2026 East Coast tour celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
The legendary steam engine is expected to arrive at the State Street Crossing in Ripley at approximately 12pm on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 and depart at 12:30pm. Prior to arriving in Chautauqua County, the train will make a brief stop in North East, Pennsylvania near the Lake Shore Railway Museum from 11:30 -11:40am.
You have a second chance to catch a glimpse of the 133 feet long, 1.2million pound 1941 steam locomotive at Genesee River Arch Bridge in Letchworth State Park (see cover story) at 12:20pm on Thursday, June 11. This is not a stop; it is a pass through. To catch it at Letchworth, arrive very early. You’ll have to pay admission, and very long lines getting to the bridge are expected.
Big Boy No. 4014’s cross-country journey marks the first time the locomotive has traveled to the East Coast as part of a nationwide celebration of America’s semi-quincentennial. The tour includes major public display events in eight cities and more than 50 whistle-stops across 10 states, including first-time visits to Indiana, Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania.
Originally delivered to Union Pacific Railroad in 1941, Big Boy No. 4014 is the largest operating steam locomotive in the world. The locomotive was restored to operation in 2019 and now serves as a traveling ambassador for railroad history and American innovation. For additional information, including the full tour schedule and updates from Union Pacific, visit www.up.com.