Legendary Big Boy Locomotive May Return to Missouri in 2026

If you're a fan of trains, you could be in for a major treat this year as there's a great chance the legendary Big Boy locomotive will be traveling to and through Missouri in 2026.

Union Pacific has just announced big plans for the historic Big Boy 1404 locomotive. To celebrate America's 250th anniversary, they say they're planning a coast-to-coast journey for the Big Boy. While they have not announced specific locations or dates yet, this is the map showing where the Big Boy traveled in 2025. Notice that Missouri was a big part of the Big Boy's travels.

Here's what the official Union Pacific Big Boy site said about their 2026 plans:

"Big Boy No. 4014 will return to the rails in a big way in 2026 to celebrate America's 250th anniversary. Union Pacific's steam crew is hard at work planning as we pursue what is possible."

Heads up that Union Pacific has what they call the "Steam Club" which you can sign up for and be notified once the Big Boy schedule is set. If you've ever had the chance to experience a Big Boy stop during one of the many tours that have included Missouri, you know this is a real treat.

There were originally 25 Big Boy locomotives built back during the 1940's. Only 8 survive today and only the 1404 is currently active according to my understanding. If you have a soft spot in your heart for these big iron horses like I do, you'll want to see the Big Boy if Missouri is a part of the 250th anniversary of America as I expect.