For the first time in 50 years, a steam engine locomotive that once traveled through Niles Canyon will roll along the track again.

Steam engine Southern Pacific No. 2475 will return to the Niles Canyon railroad during Memorial Day weekend to commemorate the steam engine's anniversary. In 1958, this train made the final trip by a steam engine through Niles Canyon on its way from San Jose to Tracy.

The Golden Gate Railroad Museum and Pacific Locomotive Association are putting on the event, which will feature photo opportunities in Niles Canyon, an engine viewing and rides through the canyon.

Steam engines pulled Southern Pacific trains through Niles Canyon for about 80 years, starting in the late 1800s, according to the Pacific Locomotive Association's Web site. In the 1950s, they were replaced by diesel engines, which continued operation until 1984, when Southern Pacific stopped using the route through the canyon.

The proceeds from the event will go toward the museum's operations and restoration costs for both historic train organizations.

On Saturday, May 24, train enthusiasts will get the chance to ride the locomotive and take photos of the train at different locations throughout the canyon for $150. The train leaves the Niles train station at 9 a.m. and will go to Sunol.

The steam engine will stay in Sunol on Sunday, May 25, where it will be displayed with other historic train cars. The cost is $5

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for adults, and free for children younger than 12. The train will be on display from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

On Monday, May 26, the steam engine will make four round-trips from Sunol to Niles. A vintage diesel engine will pull the train from Sunol to Niles, and the steam engine will carry the load from Niles back through the canyon. The train will leave Sunol at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. The cost is $25 for adults, $10 for children 4 to 12, and free for children younger than 4.

To order tickets, call 925-944-5833 or e-mail 2472tickets@ggrm.org.