Experience The Charm Of Steam Railroading In Cedar Park

The Austin Steam Train Association, popularly known as ASTA, is a volunteer-run nonprofit located in Cedar Park, Texas, with a mission to preserve, interpret, and recreate the steam-era railroading experience for audiences of today.

Founded in 1989, ASTA's mission went into full affect when they started operations in 1992 after the extensive restoration of the Southern Pacific 2‑8‑2 “Mikado” locomotive #786.

ASTA operates over the historic ex-Southern Pacific “Llano Branch,” which is leased from CapMetro via the Austin Western Railroad, and it has two major excursions. The Hill Country Flyer which is a 66-mile round-trip from Cedar Park to Burnet with a 2½-hour layover, and the shorter Bertram Flyer which is geared more towards families. They also have special themed rides, including Murder Mystery, Wine Tasting, and the festive North Pole Flyer, all of which add a seasonal flair and variety.

ASTA's fleet of operating equipment includes locomotive #786, which was given the disposition of a major rebuild initiated in the early 1990s, and it is ongoing. In the late 1990s, they brought on another diesel-electric locomotive the ALCO RSD-15 #442, which is currently being restored. The EMD GP40 #3118 was leased in 2017, and it was purchased in 2025. The EMD currently pulls the majority of the excursions.

In addition to excursions, ASTA maintains a museum and archive at the Cedar Park depot with a collection of rail equipment, artifacts, and educational materials. Their reach to volunteers and the community also includes special events such as the “Rails of Recognition Luncheon” where they recognize long-time supporters and the organization's rich 36‑year history.

ASTA's meaningful community involvement, dedication to preservation, and delightful train experiences provide the opportunity to hold onto a unique piece of Central Texas history.