vermont train tours

Are you looking for different railroad experiences beyond scheduled point-to-point rides on Amtrak’s two Vermont routes? Would you like to offer family members, out-of-town visitors, school field trips, wedding guests or conference participants an unforgettable Vermont excursion via train? How about a cross-country trip with music, accommodations and tours included?

Here are some options:

Green mountain railroad passenger services.

The Green Mountain Railroad is a part of the Vermont Rail System, a short-line railroad that has been family owned and operated for more than 50 years. They offer seasonal Dinner trains departing from Burlington, VT from May through September and Chester, VT in September and October. They also offer a number of special event train rides, scenic fall foliage excursions, cocktails on the rails and more throughout their passenger season.

For all questions regarding the Green Mountain Railroad passenger services: Click  here  to learn more. 

Charter a Train

The Green Mountain Railroad offers flexible charter services with passenger equipment that is available year-round for groups, private events, and movie filming. Trains can depart from easily accessible locations throughout the Vermont Rail System. Their classic turn-of-the-century and steam-lined era equipment have a variety of interior configurations: coach, parlor, lounge, and table (dining) car that can be combined to make the perfect event on the rails.

Contact  Green Mountain Railroad  to learn more.

Musical Train Tours

Roots on the Rails  is a Bellows Falls, Vermont-based rail excursion tour company that offers themed musical tours throughout North America. Noted train artist Charlie Hunter books folk, blues, western, and jazz musicians and offers concerts before, after, or along the route, open mic shows, and sightseeing along epic routes like the US & Canadian Rockies, Mexico and Pacific Northwest. Tours feature single and double sleeper cabins, with some overnights in historic hotels en route, and great food served on board. Prices vary, based on trip length.

Contact them  to learn more.

Fall Foliage Excursions

Green Mountain Dinner Train

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• Fall Foliage Train Rides

Vermont Fall Foliage Train Rides (2024) : A Complete Guide

Last revised: December 30, 2023

By:  Adam Burns

Vermont is a nationally renowned part of New England for its breathtaking scenery, most notably the Green Mountains, which transfer each fall into incredible displays of red, yellow, vermillion, and brown.

One way to view the foliage is by train on the Vermont Rail System and Green Mountain Railroad.   The train takes passengers through some of the most beautiful scenery in Vermont, including quaint New England towns, historic covered bridges, and stunning views of the fall foliage. The tour is timed to coincide with the peak of the fall foliage season, making it the perfect way to experience Vermont's natural beauty.

If you are interested in this even be sure and get your tickets early as they sell out very quickly! In addition to its regular tours and excursions, the railroad also offers private charters and special events. It's a popular destination for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions, offering a unique and memorable way to celebrate.

Overall, the Vermont Railway/Green Mountain Railroad is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Vermont. It's a unique and charming way to experience the beauty of the Green Mountains and Vermont's countryside, and its various tours and events offer something for everyone. Whether you're a train enthusiast or simply looking for a unique way to experience Vermont's natural beauty, be sure to add the Green Mountain Railroad to your itinerary.

Other Fall Foliage Attractions

If you're interested in seeing other parts of Vermont during the fall, instead of just by train, these are some of the state's most popular locations.

• Stowe, Vermont :  This picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, and it's one of the most popular destinations for leaf peepers. The area is home to Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, and Smugglers' Notch State Park, both of which offer breathtaking views of the fall foliage. Stowe is also known for its charming covered bridges, which make for a great photo op.
• Green Mountain Byway :   The byway is a scenic drive that takes you through the heart of Vermont's fall foliage. The 11-mile route winds through the town of Waterbury and Stowe, and offers stunning views of the Green Mountains, including Mount Mansfield and Camel's Hump. Along the way, you'll pass through quaint New England villages, historic farms, and charming country stores.
• Lake Champlain :  This famous, and massive, freshwater lake that stretches over 120 miles, and it's a popular spot for leaf peeping. The lake offers stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east, and the foliage reflected in the water is truly breathtaking. You can take a boat tour of the lake, or simply relax on one of the many beaches and take in the view.
• Route 100 : This scenic highway runs the length of Vermont, and it's one of the best places to view the fall foliage. The route winds through charming New England villages, past historic farms and covered bridges, and offers stunning views of the Green Mountains. There are also plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way, including hiking trails, country stores, and artisanal cheese shops.
• Montpelier :  Montpelier is Vermont's charming capital city, and it's a great place to view the fall foliage. The city is surrounded by hills and mountains, and there are plenty of parks and trails that offer stunning views of the foliage. The city is also home to the Vermont State House, a beautiful historic building that's surrounded by trees and makes for a great photo op.

Green Mountain Railroad/Vermont Rail System

(Burlington) :   When one thinks of a New England autumn, Vermont often comes to mind.  A train ride is a fabulous way to experience the region's world-renowned fall colors. 

As it turns out, one of America's top heritage railroads can also be found here, the Green Mountain Railroad.  The company, a division of freight line Vermont Railway, operates over much of the old Rutland Railroad that shutdown in the 1960's. 

It has maintained valuable transportation services for its home state ever since that time.   

From mid-September through mid-October the railroad hosts popular  Fall Foliage  trips (including dinner trains) to allow patrons fabulous views of New England's vibrant autumn colors.  They even offer First Class accommodations for these trips. 

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It is difficult to truly articulate just how much material can be found at this website. 

It is quite staggering and a must visit!

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Champlain Valley Dinner Train

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Champlain Valley Dinner Train - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Vermont Rail & Sail

Day 1 - depart for albany, ny, day 2 - stowe, vt, day 3 - bellows falls, vt, tour details, commodore’s inn, transportation, trip highlights, upcoming departures, if you like this tour, you may also like..., a taste of vermont, the 1000 islands, montreal escape, ready to book.

Enjoy Vermont's Fall Foliage On This Mountain Train Ride

There's no historic experience quite like seeing this state's stunning fiery foliage from the comfort of an authentic, old-school Rutland rail coach.

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What is the champlain valley dinner train, the champlain valley dinner train: what to see, the history of this scenic vermont railroad, where is the champlain valley dinner train.

Forget scenic fall drives in Vermont - the state's Green Mountain Railroad , now known as the Champlain Valley Dinner train, offers the chance to witness the beautiful fall scenery of this stunning part of the state from the comfort and convenience of a train ride. Although the railroad also hauls freight, its numerous unique train tour experiences offered throughout the year have led to the line becoming a top tourist attraction in New England. Taking passengers on a scenic ride through the southern Vermont countryside in restored authentic diesel locomotives, the Champlain Valley Dinner Train has earned its place as one of the best tourist activities in Vermont, delivering a wide variety of train tours - from fall foliage scenery trips, train dinner tours, and prohibition-inspired journeys.

Related: Copperhead Mountain Coaster Is The Longest In Branson

Ranging from one to three-or-so hours in length, the railroad's tours offer the chance to witness some of the best sights in Vermont while listening to historical narrations, the railroad's stories of the past, the history of the towns along the way, and an array of fascinating Vermont facts.

Although a myriad of Vermont scenic rain rides is available year-round on this route - particularly during special occasions and holidays - inarguably, one of the most spectacular times to tour this rail trail is during the fall.

As summer ends and fall's rich foliage hues take over, passengers can hop on board and soak up a spectacle of ravishing reds, intense yellows, and bright oranges of deciduous trees all the way from Rockingham to Chester, as well as take in famous Vermont sights, including the Connecticut River, Brockway Mills Gorge, the Green Mountains, and old town river towns - like Burnaby Village Museum.

This iconic railroad is a freight and tourist line in upstate Vermont that utilizes former Rutland Railroad trackage. Many Vermont rail tours of the original Green Mountain Railroad today are operated by the Vermont Rail System (VRS) - a family-owned and operated railroad company.

Offering seasonal train experiences along the rails, VRS takes tourists through the sensational scenery in old-school diesel trains reminiscent of a romantic era when most Americans traveled by rail. Running seasonal Green Mountain railroad passenger cars, the railroad's tours use genuine historic Alco RS-1 or S-4 locomotives to pull railroad tours - and these are original restored Rutland units.

The carriages are old-fashioned, heavyweight coaches, adding an extra layer of historical authenticity to what's already an incredible experience of discovering the state's natural beauty and historically significant towns.

Related: 10 Scenic Fall Train Rides That Are Worth The Travel

The Green Mountain Railroad schedule runs on three main routes: the Green Mountain Flyer goes from Bellows Falls to Chester Depot, the White River Flyer runs from White River Junction to Thetford, and the Champlain Valley Flyer operates from Burlington to Charlotte.

While many trips take place in the spring and summer, there are plenty of other excursions during specific times, too, including Easter Bunny rides in March, Halloween trains for adults and children in October, as well as Polar Express routes in December.

Other special Green Mountain railway rides from Burlington also include Mother’s Day Brunch, Father’s Day Rail & Sail, and the Independence Day Fireworks train, among others.

However, the Scenic Fall Foliage excursions from Chester are one of the best Vermont train rides to add to the bucket list, taking tourers along the tracks to relish the amazing colors and sights of the Vermont countryside and Green Mountain range throughout September and October.

Related: These Eckert's Patches Are Slaying The Midwestern Pumpkin Experience

The Green Mountain Railroad dates all the way back to the Rutland Railroad, the latter of which shut down in 1961 due to a lack of freight traffic and labor disputes and has remained out of service ever since.

However, the Green Mountain Railroad founder, Nelson Blount, acquired some of the pieces of the Rutland in 1964, intending to operate the previous railroad’s section between Rutland and Bellow Falls for his collection of Steamtown locomotives.

After many discussions with the State of Vermont and workers of the railroad itself, the entire route between Rutland and Ludlow for both freight and passenger movement was to be opened.

As such, the efforts to save the Rutland line in the mid-1960s essentially birthed the celebrated Green Mountain Railroad Vermont railroad - a testament to the original line historically and lovingly remembered for its scenic countryside and covered bridges. Had it not been for the attempts at the Rutland's revival, these memories would have remained nothing more than that - memories .

Related: 10 Vermont Towns That Are Celebrating The Fall Season Perfectly

In the modern day, the Green Mountain was split off from the Steamtown USA museum and operates independently under the Vermont Rail System - now comprising over 400 miles of track and boasting an impressive family of over 150 railroaders.

What's more, the VRS hauls over 25,000 freight cars annually, with almost 90% of traffic serving Vermont businesses. If that wasn't impressive enough, the VRS celebrated 50 years of continuous service as of January 1st, 2014.

Today, the VRS operates passenger services under the Green Mountain Railroad, running seasonal excursions and dinner trains, as well as year-round charters and special events.

Aspiring railroad visitors can reserve a coach on one of the company's scheduled trains or even rent the whole train on the day of their choosing if they so wish. Whether it's for special occasions, birthday parties, school field trips, tour groups, weddings company functions, holidays, or anything else, the VRS accommodates charter reservations for any event.

Related: 10 Terrifyingly Haunted US Destinations To Visit This Fall Season

There's more than one departure for the railroad routes that the VRS offers. The two main locations are Burlington and Chester, the addresses of which are:

• Burlington Address: One Railway Lane Burlington VT, 05401
• Chester Address: Chester: 563 Depot Street (Rte. 103), Chester

All trains departing from Burlington board on the new Amtrak platform just behind the Main Street Landing (also known as One Main Station). Public parking at this location is available - visit this website for pricing and further information.

A wonderful (and very comfortable) way to discover Vermont's scenery and enjoy the best views in the Green Mountains, the Green Mountain Railroad map is one that visitors to this state must explore via the tracks.

Granting the chance to celebrate special occasions and themed holiday events, learn about historical happenings of the area, and enjoy seasonal scenes that change every few months, this is one of the best tours in Vermont for kids and adults alike.

Plus, when it comes to Vermont train rides, fall foliage discovery excursions are highly rated; if the Champlain Valley Dinner Train reviews are anything to go by, visitors will not be disappointed when they commit themselves to this fantastic trip.

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All Aboard Fall Foliage Trains: Vermont Leaf Peeping

Fall Foliage in Vermont is a staple of any autumnal vacation to the Green Mountain State. Fall Foliage Train Rides might be the best new, or not so new, way to enjoy the state’s best colors. Looking to ride the rails and enjoy the scenic views Vermont has to offer this fall? Learn more about the historic 1930s train cars that are open and welcoming passengers nearly a century later.

Green Mountain Railroad

Three-Course Meal in a 1930s Train Car

In addition to the scenic views and welcome ambiance of the train ride, passengers are served a three-course meal during their ride. The meal is prepared on the train itself in the kitchen car. Their rotating, seasonal menu featured several Vermont favorites. Dine in the newly refurbished 1930s dining cars while you glide through the mountains of Vermont. 

Fall Foliage Favorites

The Fall Foliage Train may be one of the best hidden gems when it comes to exploring Vermont this fall. From walking Smuggler’s Notch to your cozy cabin stay at Sterling Ridge Resort, we love guiding you to experience the best fall has to offer.

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Northeast Kingdom

Two amtrak train routes serve much of vermont, from n.y.c. and d.c..

Rutland Station (RUD)

25 Evelyn Street Rutland, VT, 05701 Phone: 800-872-7245

White River Junction Station (WRJ)

102 Railroad Row White River Junction, VT, 05001 Phone: 800-872-7245

Castleton Station (CNV)

266 Main Street Castleton, VT, 05735 Phone: 800-872-7245

Montpelier-Barre Station (MPR)

297 Junction Road Montpelier, VT, 05602 Phone: 800-872-7245

Brattleboro Station (BRA)

10 Vernon Road Brattleboro, VT, 05301 Phone: 800-872-7245

Burlington-Essex Junction Station (ESX)

29 Railroad Avenue Essex Junction, VT, 05452 Phone: 800-872-7245

Bellows Falls Station (BLF)

54 Depot Street Bellows Falls, VT, 05101 Phone: 800-872-7245

St. Albans Station (SAB)

40 Federal Street St. Albans, VT, 05478 Phone:

Randolph Station (RPH)

1 L Street Randolph, VT, 05060 Phone: 800-872-7245

Windsor-Mt. Ascutney Station (WNM)

26 Depot Avenue Windsor, VT, 05089 Phone: 800-872-7245

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Important Information

Interested in a quick ride?  A full day?  A few days?  Opportunities are endless on Vermont’s Rail Trails. Whether you’re out solo, with family, or friends, before hitting the trail, it is important to consult the  Trail Updates  page to learn about the latest trail conditions, construction projects, and regular maintenance activities throughout the year.

How do I get there?

Consult the Vermont Rail Trails  maps  for information on each of the state-owned, AOT maintained Rail Trails.  You’ll be able to find information on trailheads, parking, restrooms, and trail closures.

VIEW INTERACTIVE MAP

Going the Distance

For those staying on the trails, refer to the mile markers to determine the distance from point A to B on your trip.

Where do I park?

Information on formal parking can be found on the Vermont Rail Trails  maps . Overnight parking is an option  with permission  at some trailheads.  For more information, contact the Rail Trails Program Manager.

FIND PARKING

Off-Trail Opportunities

For those that want to venture off the trail, use the “Get Directions” link(s) to Google Maps with the travel mode set to “Cycling”.

Want to know more about shuttle services?  Where to stay?  Where to eat? You’ll find all these details on the  Vermont Department of Tourism & Marketing’s (VDTM)  website.

Interested in a special event close by or on the trail?  Check out the  VDTM’s  Event’s Calendar.

BE PREPARED

Rail Trail User Safety 101

• You are responsible for yourself so be prepared!
• Your trip on the rail trail begins before you reach the trail. Tell someone where you are going, your route, and when you will return.
• Check the weather and plan your essential gear (i.e. clothing, equipment, water, food, light, and first aid) based on the forecast and the distance you plan to go.
• Check your cell coverage on your planned route. Most of the Vermont Rail Trails have excellent cell coverage, but some areas do not.
• On the trail with a group? Stick together! When you start as a group, end as a group. Pace your group to speed of the slowest user.
• Observe your surroundings! Even if you are headed out for just an hour, an injury, severe weather, and equipment failure could leave you stranded.
• Be prepared to turn back. Weather can change quickly. Fatigue and unexpected conditions can also affect your time on the trial. Know your limitations and when to postpone. The trail will be there another day.
• Provide the trail user’s name, home address, current location, and call back phone number. You should also include the trail user’s age, gender, size, a description of clothing they are wearing, and gear/equipment.
• Note any pertinent medical information.
• Explain what happened, when it happened, and where it happened. Also include where the person’s vehicle is located as well as a full description of it (make, model, year, license plate).
• A description of their last know locations weather, conditions, and trail information.

Adopted from the Hike Safe Green Mountains VT Program

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The Spectacular Fall Foliage Train Rides In Vermont You Don't Want To Miss

Natalie Clunan

Natalie is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves uncovering new places along the East Coast. Contact: [email protected]

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With summer winding down, you might be feeling blue. So, why not bring some color to your life with one of the vibrant Vermont fall foliage train rides ? Perk up Vermonters, soon the yellows, oranges, and red hues of autumn will delight you with a bold and beautiful display. As we head into the harvest season, scenic hikes and country drives might be at the top of your list to take in the views. Treat yourself to something extra special through two journeys offered by the Vermont Rail System : Cocktails on the Rails and the Dinner Train.

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How about it folks: Aren’t these some of the best Vermont fall foliage train rides? Do you know someone who would love to take this trip?

This scenic overlook is also a great spot to take in the changing leaves. And bring a taste of autumn in Vermont home with something from Etsy.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Where are the best fall activities in vermont.

What are the best ways to enjoy the fall foliage in Vermont? Here is a list of six chairlifts in Vermont to glide through the vibrant fall foliage.

• Mount Snow (39 Mount Snow Road, West Dover, VT): Take the Bluebird Express to heaven on this exciting scenic attraction in Vermont. From the summit of Mount Snow, the comfortable bubble chairlift carries us on unlimited rides, with the purchase of a ticket, through the beautiful surrounding views including the Somerset Reservoir, Mount Monadnock, and Mount Washington. Also, find out about the annual Oktoberfest on the Mount Snow website.
• Okemo Mountain Resort (77 Okemo Ridge Rd, Ludlow, VT): The scenic ride on the Sunburst Six chairlift offers a different perspective of the Vermont landscape. Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster is also available for fun through Oct. 9. The first five minutes of the ride is a 1,600-foot climb, giving enough time to anticipate the fun. Then it plunges 375 vertical feet along 3,100 feet of track, following the curves of the mountain at speeds up to 25 mph with camel backs, waves, banking loops, and even a twister section.
• Stowe Mountain Resort (7416 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT): Soar to the top of Vermont on the Gondola Skyride. From the top of the state's highest mountain, Mt. Mansfield, we can enjoy a scrumptious meal at Cliff House restaurant, visit the Summit Retail Gift Shop and enjoy something sweet at The Waffle.

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Take the Train to Vermont

Taking the train to Vermont means your scenic vacation starts as soon as you hear “All aboard.” Offering fast and comfortable service with stops both outside and inside Vermont, Amtrak offers two routes that connect Vermont with the rest of the country. Ride in comfort, take in the scenery, and enjoy amenities including free Wi-Fi, a café car, spacious seats with ample leg room, and the option to take your bike (with additional fee).

Vermont Amtrak Routes

Ethan Allen Express

New york city to burlington.

Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express departs New York City and arrives in Burlington, Vermont in under eight hours. Stopping in five Vermont towns in total also including Castleton, Rutland, Middlebury, and Vergennes.

THE VERMONTER

Washington d.c. to st. albans.

Offering service from Washington D.C., the Vermonter travels through New York City all the way to northern Vermont’s St. Albans. Making eight stops in Vermont historic downtowns along the way including Brattleboro, Bellows Falls, Windsor, White River Junction, Randolph, Montpelier, Waterbury, and Essex Junction.

Travel Time is Your Time

Taking the train offers simple, timeless adventure that shifts your perspective as soon as you’re on board. Relax in comfort and watch the views from the window slowly shift into the pastoral landscapes of Vermont.

Itineraries

A Long Weekend in Middlebury

Take the train to Middlebury for a weekend of exploring local nature paths, art exhibits, and delicious eats.

A Long Weekend in Vergennes

Travel by Amtrak to Vergennes for a weekend of bike riding, eating from-scratch ice cream, and spending time in nature at a state park.

A Long Weekend in Burlington

A train trip to Burlington includes shopping and dining at Church Street Marketplace, named the nation’s No. 1 public square, Sunday brunch, and beautiful lake views.

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News & Reviews News Wire Vermont Rail System to acquire New Hampshire Central

Vermont Rail System to acquire New Hampshire Central

Railroad will become system’s seventh short line

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BURLINGTON, Vt. — Vermont Rail System has reached an agreement purchase assets and operating rights of the New Hampshire Central Railroad to expand its operations in northern New Hampshire, the companies announced Tuesday.

“VRS has a 60-year tradition of helping local businesses with efficient and reliable freight service,” Selden Houghton, Vermont Rail System president, said in a statement, “and we are excited at the opportunity to grow and expand by providing economical rail service to customers in northern New Hampshire.

New Hampshire Central, founded in 1993, operates more than 56 miles of track leased from the state between North Stratford and Colebrook and between Groveton and Littleton, N.H., interchanging with the St. Lawrence & Atlantic Railroad.   It will continue to operate under the New Hampshire Central name.

New Hampshire Central owner Edward W. Jeffrey said, “I couldn’t be happier to know that such a dedicated group will continue to serve New Hampshire businesses and grow this important link to the regional and national rail network.”

The railroad will become the seventh in the Vermont Rail System, which currently operates more than 400 miles of track in Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York through its Vermont Railway, Green Mountain Railroad, Clarendon & Pittsford Railroad, Washington County Railroad; New York & Odgensburg Railway, and New England Southern Railroad.

The New Hampshire Central deal is subject to state and federal regulatory approval.

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