A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about and actually operate a full size steam locomotive!

Hand on the Throttle (HOTT) registrants receive home study materials covering railroad and steam locomotive safety, plus basic steam locomotive theory and operation. At the beginning of each on-site class session, students are instructed on steam locomotive operation and given a safety test. Following the test, each student operates a steam locomotive under the direct and constant supervision of our engine crew for approximately one hour along the Valley Railroad.

• Gift Certificates are delivered by email and contain instructions to redeem them at checkout.
• Advance reservations for all Hand On The Throttle activities is required.
• Please check our website for updates on 2023 product availability.
• Our gift cards have NO EXPIRATION date and no additional processing fees. Prices are based on 2024 fares; future fares may increase and recipient will be responsible for price difference
  

IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS:  Once you purchase your Gift Card

• you will receive an email explaining your gift certificate is available with a LINK to "View your gift card."
• Follow the link to "View your gift card" and it will open a browser page with your gift certificate. 
• In LOWER LEFT corner is a "Print" Icon   Simply click on the icon and print your gift certificate.

HOTT Gift Cards can be redeemed for a 2024 reservation by calling 800-377-3987x 201 after 2024 dates are announced at www.essexsteamtrain.com