Union Pacific Challenger Steam Locomotive 3985 was built in 1943 by ALCo in Schenectady, New York. The locomotive was one of 105 articulated 4-6-6-4 Challenger-type locomotives produced for the Union Pacific. Only two remain. The locomotive was retired in about 1962 and restored to operation in 1981 and was, at the time it pulled the Ringling train, the world's largest operating steam locomotive. Its home base is Cheyenne, WY.

Union Pacific Water Tender UPP 809 JIM ADAMS carried the American flag on its sides. It was built in 1937 for steam locomotives in the 800 series. Converted to a fuel tender in 1958 for Union Pacific’s gas-turbine electric locomotives. Retired in 1970, the tender went to Los Angeles for use as a stationary fuel tank, becoming UP 907856 in 1972. Assigned to the UP Heritage Fleet in 1989 and moved to Cheyenne to become an auxiliary water car for steam locomotives 844 and 3985. Renumbered UPP 809 in 2003.

Union Pacific Water Tender UPP 814 JOE JORDAN was built in 1937 for steam locomotives in the 800 series. Converted to a fuel tender in 1958 for Union Pacific’s gas-turbine electric locomotives. Retired in 1970, the tender went to Los Angeles for use as a stationary fuel tank, becoming UP 907857 in 1972. Assigned to the UP Heritage Fleet in 1989 and moved to Cheyenne to become an auxiliary water car for steam locomotives 844 and 3985. Renumbered UPP 814 in 2003.

Union Pacific Diesel-Electric Locomotive 7369 was built by GE, an ES44AC diesel electric locomotive. It was part of the train to provide protection in case there were any issues with the steam locomotive, a common practice on steam excursions.