Coopersville & Marne Railway
At a Glance
- TypeHeritage railroad & tourist attraction
- LocationMI
About Coopersville & Marne Railway
The Coopersville & Marne Railway runs a non‑profit tourist train through West Michigan’s Kent and Ottawa counties, covering approximately 14 miles between Coopersville and Marne. The line, owned by the railway, links with the Grand Rapids Eastern Railroad at Grand Rapids and also serves a single freight customer with lumber shipments near the eastern end. Excursion trains include themed and standard rides, and a recently restored handicap‑accessible car now operates on the route.
Upcoming Events
No ticketed events are currently listed for Coopersville & Marne Railway. Many heritage operators publish schedules seasonally or run on regular open hours instead of dated events.
Check the operator’s website for current hours and special runs, or subscribe to event alerts and we’ll email you when something is scheduled.
Find the Depot
The Trains
The line runs on about 14 miles of standard‑gauge track between Walker, Michigan, and Coopersville, Michigan, where it connects with the Grand Rapids Eastern Railroad. Its rolling stock includes a passenger car that was restored as a handicap‑accessible vehicle and entered service in 2023. Passenger excursions travel from Coopersville to Marne and back along this segment of the former Grand Trunk branch.
History
See full history
The line that the Coopersville & Marne Railway now operates began in the 1850s as the Oakland and Ottawa Railway, later becoming part of the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad and then the Grand Trunk Railroad. After the Grand Trunk shifted its lake‑ferry operations to Muskegon, the former main line was reduced to a branch and was cut back to Coopersville before being sold to the Central Michigan Railway in 1983. When the Central Michigan Railway abandoned the segment, a General Motors facility in Coopersville secured the right‑of‑way for possible wartime use, prompting the tracks to be reinstated. The line was placed on the market and, in 1993, a nonprofit organization incorporated as the Coopersville & Marne Railway and purchased the track, establishing a non‑profit tourist railroad and common carrier that continues to operate today.
Around the Depot
Getting There & Staying Nearby
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Rent a Car
Most heritage railroads sit well off the interstate. Picking up a rental at the nearest airport is usually the easiest way in.
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Tours & Activities Nearby
Tours
Guided tours, day trips, and things to do around the area, bookable in advance through Viator.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Coopersville & Marne Railway located?
Coopersville & Marne Railway is located in MI.
How do I get tickets to Coopersville & Marne Railway?
Tickets and current schedules are available on the operator's official website at http://www.coopersvilleandmarne.org.