Shelby & Southern, Calera, AL

The Shelby & Southern, a narrow-gauge line, features Alabama's only operating steam locomotive on a scenic trip through the Alabama woods. The Shelby & Southern runs a loop route through the woods and along Buxahatchee creek. Round-trip rides take approximately 10 minutes.


The Shelby & Southern narrow gauge railroad is relatively new to the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum.

In 2001, the Birmingham Zoo decided to end their zoo train operation after many years of service. The locomotive and coaches were put up for sale, and our members worked to acquire this equipment. A new roadbed was graded, track was laid, and in the spring of 2002, the Shelby & Southern railroad begin operation.