scenic railway tours new hampshire

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New Hampshire Scenic Train Rides (2024): A Complete Guide

Last revised: December 11, 2023

By:  Adam Burns

Despite its small size at just 9,350 square miles, ranking it 46th out of 50 states, New Hampshire carries a long, fascinating history with railroads. 

Thanks to its location in the heart of New England, the birthplace of railroading, the Granite State's first can be traced back to 1835. 

In the modern era (20th century) it was predominantly served by the Boston & Maine, one of the region's preeminent and far-reaching systems. 

However, the Central Vermont Railway (a Canadian National subsidiary) and the Maine Central also provided limited coverage.  Because of its rich heritage, many museums and excursions are available to the public today.  

Depending upon your particular interest(s), six different organizations offer some sort of trip by rail including the  Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train , Conway Scenic Railroad, Hobo Railroad, Mount Washington Cog Railway, White Mountain Central Railroad, and the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad.  

Please note!   The guide here pertains only to New Hampshire scenic train rides related to vacation and tourism destinations.  If you are interested in intercity/long distance rail travel please visit  Amtrak's website .

State Rail History

The first railroad in America is credited to the Granite Railway of Massachusetts. 

This system was established on March 4, 1826, envisioned to more easily transport granite between Quincy and the Neponset River at Milton. It officially opened for business on October 7, 1826. 

At the time, a great debate raged across the country concerning whether railroads or canals were the more efficient and practical means of transportation. 

While the former had caught on in England, Americans had yet to embrace the new technology. 

However, in some locations, such as the previously mentioned Granite Railway as well as the Baltimore & Ohio in Maryland and South Carolina Canal & Rail Road Company in Charleston, business leaders were taking a chance on this newfangled contraption. 

Back in Massachusetts, Francis B.C. Bradlee notes in his book, " The Boston And Lowell Railroad, The Nashua And Lowell Railroad, And The Salem And Lowell Railroad ," the Boston & Lowell Railroad was granted a charter by the state legislature on June 5, 1830. 

Thanks to the region's rapid population and manufacturing growth it was intended to link its namesake cities and compete against the Middlesex Canal which connected the Merrimack River with Boston.

After five years of work the Boston & Lowell opened for business on June 24, 1835.

Following a brief discourse regarding what sort of propulsion should be used, a steam locomotive was eventually chosen, the first of which arrived aboard the ship Choctaw on November 17, 1832. 

This little machine, carrying an 0-4-0 wheel arrangement, was the work of Robert Stephenson of Newcastle-on-Tyne, England in 1832. 

It weighed just 7 tons and was originally named the Stephenson .  To complement the B&L and extend its reach, the Nashua & Lowell Railroad was incorporated in Massachusetts on April 16, 1836 and chartered in New Hampshire on June 26, 1835. 

Its intentions, according to the B&L, was to act as:

" ...the second link (of which the Boston & Lowell is the first), in a great chain of communication connecting the Seaboard and the lakes - passing through the interior of New Hampshire and Vermont in one direction to Albany, and in the other to Burlington and Ogdensburg. " 

After only a few years of work the Nashua & Lowell was initially opened to just outside Nashua on October 8, 1838. 

After a bridge was completed over the Nashua River on December 23rd, a through route was in service into downtown Nashua at a depot situated near Main Street. 

In the end, the B&L never completed its own link to the lakes but did act as a bridge route in such as part of the Boston & Maine Railroad. 

To read more about the B&M please click here .  According to the book, " The Routledge Historical Atlas Of The American Railroads ," by John Stover New Hampshire's mileage peaked at more than 1,200 during the 1920's, most of which was under the B&M's control. 

Unfortunately, with the loss of manufacturing and industry much of this has disappeared.  The Association of American Railroads notes that only 489 miles remain in active use today.

• Andover Historical Society

This organization has preserved the original Northern Railroad depot in Andover, constructed in the Victorian design that opened in 1874. 

This system was chartered in 1844 by the state legislature to " construct a line running from Concord to some point along the Connecticut River. "

In total, the Northern Railroad stretched nearly 70 miles, running from Concord to White River Junction, Vermont it opened for service in 1847 and was acquired by the Boston & Lowell in 1884. 

The latter became an important interchange point with the Central Vermont during the Boston & Maine era (one of three key junction points along the Connecticut River, with others being Bellows Falls and Wells River). 

The town's freight depot is also preserved.  Along with historic displays inside the station there is also a small collection of rolling stock located outside, along with a handful of other historic buildings.  To learn more about this museum please click here .

• Ashland Railroad Station Museum

This museum is located inside the small Boston, Concord & Montreal Railroad depot completed in 1869.

The BC&M was incorporated in 1844 and eventually opened between Concord and Wells River, Vermont on May 10, 1853 (this later became a connection point with the Canadian Pacific and Barre & Chelsea). 

The Boston & Maine first acquired control of the BC&M in 1887 but soon spun-off the railroad to form the Concord & Montreal on July 24, 1889. 

The C&M was a consolidation of the BC&M and Concord Railroad, remaining independent for only a few more years.  It later rejoined the B&M network in 1895. 

The preserved building houses a collection of historic artifacts and documents.  It is only open to the public during July and August of each year.

However, the little single story building, which still sits at its original location (next to the active tracks of the Hobo Railroad) offers free admission to the public.

• Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train

Based in North Woodstock, New Hampshire the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train offers only trips where meals are served on-board. 

The 20-mile trip operates southward to Thornton over a section of what was formerly a Boston & Maine branch. 

The upscale attraction (which has been featured in TripAdvisor and even the Wall Street Journal) began in the spring of 1989 and currently utilizes three cars:

• Indian Waters (built for the New York Central as a lounge by Pullman in 1924)
• Algonquin (manufactured as a cafe-coach for Canadian National in 1954)
• Granite Eagle (originally manufactured for the Missouri Pacific during the 1950's, it spent most of its career running from St. Louis to Texas)

This excursions largely operate four days a week, including weekends. You can also book the train for special events or large groups.  To learn more please visit their website.

• Conway Scenic Railroad

The Conway Scenic Railroad, based in North Conway, New Hampshire is one of New England's most popular scenic train rides, offering first-class dining services through beautiful New England in the Mt. Washington Valley.

They also offer standard excursions as well as numerous seasonal trains and special events such as " A Day Out With Thomas " the tank engine.   

The attraction's first train departed on August 4, 1974 when Bill Levy and Carroll Reed acquired a 7-mile segment of Boston & Maine's Conway Branch from Conway to Intervale. 

To lead the trains former Canadian National 0-6-0 #7470 (Class O-18a, manufactured by the Grand Trunk Railway in 1921) was also acquired. 

The operation was extended through Crawford Notch in late 1994 following Maine Central's abandonment of its fabled Mountain Division in 1984.  This trackage is currently owned by the state of New Hampshire. 

The original owners sold out to Russ and Dot Seybold in 1999, who subsequently sold their interest to the Profile Mountain Holdings Corporation in early 2018.

• Gorham Historical Society And Railroad Museum

This museum, located in Gorham, is located within the town's restored Grand Trunk Railway (Canadian National) stone depot constructed in 1907. 

The tracks next to the building are still active, operated by the St. Lawrence & Atlantic Railroad, a division of Genesee & Wyoming. 

It is maintained by the Gorham Historical Society featuring a collection of artifacts and displays inside. 

They also house a model railroad inside a boxcar, featuring a small collection of rolling stock on the premises, including a preserved steam locomotive; dressed for the Grand Trunk it was actually built for the New England Gas & Coke Company. 

The little switcher carries an 0-6-0 wheel arrangement and was built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1911.  For many years it was located at the original Steamtown attraction in Bellows Falls, Vermont.  For more information please visit the society's website.

• Hobo Railroad

The Hobo Railroad, based in Lincoln, New Hampshire offers train excursions along the Pemigewasset River with trains boarding from the local town depot.

The railroad also features dinner trains and special excursions throughout the year.  The attraction began in 1986 as the Plymouth & Lincoln Railroad, owned by husband and wife team, Edward and Brenda Clark. 

It ran a total of 7 miles from Woodstock to Lincoln over the same trackage (ex-Boston & Maine) currently used by the  Café Lafayette Dinner Train .

Over the years, the operation has expanded to the point that it now also maintains the former Boston & Maine line from Concord to Lincoln, all of which is owned by the state of New Hampshire. 

This property predominantly handles excursions but the 19-mile segment from Tilton to Concord also hosts freight trains of the New England Southern Railroad.

• Hartmann Model Railroad Ltd.

Located in Intervale this organization features a large collection of model railroads with layouts HO and Z to G-scale and Lionel products. 

They also showcase many pieces within display cases.  Finally, outside is a small operating, scale-train operation.  They are open on select days year-round.  To learn more please visit their website .

• Mount Washington Cog Railway

The Mount Washington Cog Railway is one, if not the, most popular such attractions in the country. 

As its name implies the company offers scenic train rides traveling up Mount Washington, some of which still utilize steam power. It is the world's oldest cog railroad system dating back to the late 1860s. 

The operation was conceived by Sylvester Marsh who believed the railroad would become a popular tourist attraction after he climbed New Hampshire's Mount Washington in the early 1850s.

His idea proved to be quite a success and, just like the Manitou & Pike's Peak Railway in Colorado, thousands of folks continue to descend upon Bretten Woods annually to ride the train.

Interestingly, the railroad does not scale the entire mountain but begins about a quarter of the way up with grades reaching incredible levels, peaking at 37.4%! (In regards to standard railroads, a 3% grade is considered steep!)

For much of its existence the Mt. Washington line relied on standard steam power to shove trains up the slope but today it uses cheaper, and more environmentally friendly, bio-diesel units alongside its steamers.  To learn more please click here .

• Raymond Historical Museum

Located inside the Boston & Maine's restored depot here (built in 1893) this museum features a collection of displays and artifacts related to the area and railroad in general. 

They also have a small collection of rolling stock on the grounds (which includes a refrigerator car, caboose, and small Whitcomb diesel switcher lettered for the Portsmouth & Concord Railroad). 

The former B&M line here has been abandoned for many years and now hosts the Rockingham Recreational Trail. 

The non-profit Raymond Historical Society, which oversees the depot, was formed in 1969 and eventually acquired the building before the B&M abandoned the tracks. 

In addition to this structure they also have preserved a small maintenance shed and observation building.  While there be sure and also visit their tools museum and one-room school house.

Throughout the year they host various special events, largely aimed at raising funds for preservation efforts.  To learn more please visit their website.

• Sandown Depot Museum

This museum is located within the restored depot in Sandown, completed in 1873/74 by the Nashua & Rochester Railroad, a future component of the Boston & Maine. 

It is operated by the local historical society and offers handcars to view along with a collection of historic documents and displays.  To learn more please visit their website by clicking here .

• White Mountain Central Railroad

The White Mountain Central Railroad is based in Lincoln and departs from the local train station on a 2.5-mile excursion that usually lasts about 30 minutes.

The railroad is rare in that it operates a pair of geared steam locomotives which include Beebe River Railroad 2-Truck Climax #6 (built by the Climax Locomotive Works in 1921) and International Shoe Company 2-Truck Heisler #4 (built in 1929). 

There area also two additional small steamers which are operational; East Branch & Lincoln Railroad 2-4-2ST #5 (built by Baldwin in 1906) and Koppers Company 0-4-0T #1 (a 1930 product of H.K. Porter). 

Finally, the Clark Family also has East Branch & Lincoln 2-Truck Shay #5 (a 1919 product of the Lima Locomotive Works) on display.  It is owned, along with the Hobo Railroad and Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train , by the Clarks.

• Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, based in Weirs Beach, New Hampshire offers several different excursion trains and special events throughout the year, operating on trackage once owned by the Boston & Maine Railroad. 

It is yet another property owned by the Clark Family with trips running along the beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee. 

SteamLocomotive.com

Wes Barris's SteamLocomotive.com is simply the best web resource on the study of steam locomotives. 

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

It is quite staggering and a must visit!

© Copyright 2007-2024 American-Rails.com. All written content, photos, and videos copyright American-Rails.com (unless otherwise noted).

Conway Scenic Railroad

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Conway Scenic Railroad - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

North Conway NH Train Rides

Experience an old-fashioned train ride when you depart from Conway Scenic Railroad’s Victorian Station located next to Schouler Park in the heart of North Conway Village. Choose either of their Valley Train rides or their longer Notch Train for a truly memorable journey and some breathtaking scenery. The Notch Train travels to their Crawford Notch station with limited trips during foliage season on to Fabyan Station in Bretton Woods. All of their trains are vintage, restored locomotives and passenger cars. Plan to ride one of their dining cars for a real first-class dining experience.

Please check out their info below and be sure to let them know that you found them on NorthConwayNH.com!

Conway Scenic Railroad 38 Norcross Circle North Conway, NH 03860 603-356-5251 or 1-800-232-5251

Old-fashioned train rides, from 1 to 5½ hours, all departing from our 1874 Victorian station in North Conway Village. Excursions offered mid-April through December. Dining car service available June through October.

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If you’re looking to sit back and enjoy breathtaking views, take a ride on one of New Hampshire’s many scenic and historic trains. Jump aboard a national engineering landmark and enjoy a panoramic view of the White Mountains, or take a ride around the state’s largest lake! If you’re having a family day, there are train rides for the kids, too! Your little ones can take an enchanting trip on the Journey to the North Pole and Santa Express trains which bring holiday magic to life. Whether you’re a railroad buff looking for an authentic experience, or you’re looking for family-friendly fun, be sure to check out these New Hampshire tourist train operators for pricing, details, and reservations.

• Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train , North Woodstock
• Conway Scenic Railroad , North Conway
• Hobo Railroad , Lincoln
• Mount Washington Cog Railway , Bretton Woods
• White Mountain Central Railroad , Lincoln
• Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad , Meredith or Weirs Beach

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Kid friendly attractions, scenic drives.

The Bartlett Excursion Train Ride Offers Some Of The Most Breathtaking Views In New Hampshire

Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: [email protected].

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A great way to see New Hampshire is by taking a drive through one of the many backroads or scenic highways winding through the state. These drives allow us to see small towns and experience many different walks of life. But, sticking to the roads doesn’t always mean the best views. For the best views, we’ve come to appreciate the historic trains here in the Green Mountain State. Today we’re telling you about one of our favorites! This scenic train ride in New Hampshire offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the entire state, and you’re sure to love it.

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The Green Mountain State is overflowing with natural beauty, and this scenic train ride in New Hampshire is just one of many ways to get out and enjoy it.

The Conway Scenic Railroad operates throughout much of the year, but tends to take a break during the winter. After some time off in the winter, rides resume in the spring. Grab your railroad tickets and learn more about Conway’s many scenic train ride options via the Conway Scenic Railroad website.

For another type of railroad view, how about a hike? Follow this abandoned railroad trail for one of the most unique hikes in New Hampshire! Make sure you have a GPS trail app handy too – you’ll find quite a few hikes around this region.

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

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Scenic train ride in new hampshire & related info.

What restaurants in New Hampshire have the best views?

Speaking of scenic views...from casual eats by the water to jaw-dropping restaurants with vibrant countryside views, New Hampshire's best restaurants know how to wow with their picture-perfect settings. These restaurants in New Hampshire have some of the best views in the state.

• Applecrest Farm Bistro , Hampton Falls
• Café Lafayette Dinner Train, Woodstock
• The Foundry , Manchester
• Garwoods Restaurant & Pub , Wolfeboro
• The Italian Farmhouse , Plymouth
• Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub, North Conway
• Petey's Summertime Seafood & Bar, Rye
• The Purple Urchin, Hampton
• The Waterhouse, Peterborough
• Walter's Basin Restaurant & Basshole Lounge, Holderness

What are some places to go apple picking in New Hampshire?

Pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and apple farms...oh my! New Hampshire is chock full of apple orchards just ripe for the harvest come fall. In fact, both U-pick and farm stands abound around the state! Add this nostalgic autumn activity onto your NH fall bucket list at one of these tasty places to go apple picking in New Hampshire:

• Alyson's Orchard, Walpole
• Applecrest Farm Orchard , Hampton Falls
• Carter Hill Orchard, Concord
• Currier Orchards, Merrimack
• Gould Hill Farm, Contoocook
• Lull Farm, Hollis
• Mack's Apples, Londonderry
• McLeod Orchards, Milford
• Meadow Ledge Farm , Loudon
• Poverty Lane Orchards, Lebanon
• Sunnycrest Farm, Londonderry

Can't get enough of this fall staple? Check out this apple cider donut trail for a delicious way to experience the season. Or, (arguably) better yet, how about the best places to find apple pie in New Hampshire ?

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Hobo Railroad & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad – Creating Family Memories One Ride At a Time!

If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity in NH take a ride on the Hobo Railroad & Winnipesauukee Scenic Railroad. The nostalgia of riding on a train through scenic NH is guaranteed to puts a smile on your face and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. The Hobo Railroad delivers old fashioned rides in vintage railcars to capture your interest.  

Pick Your Ride At The Hobo Railroad & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad

The Hobo Railroad & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad has a variety of options at their different New Hampshire locations. They have different options depending on where and when you want to ride. It is a popular tourist attraction in New Hampshire and offers a variety of old-fashioned train rides and even rail bike adventures. Here are some of the different options available:  

Hobo Railroad in Lincoln NH

The Hobo Railroad is based out of Lincoln NH up the 93 corridor right off exit 32, just South of New Hampshire’s beautiful White Mountains. The Hobo Railroad offers an 80-minute round-trip train ride on their old-fashioned rail cars. On the train ride you will cruise in comfort along the beautiful Pemigewasset River and through New Hampshire’s woodland scenery. The Hobo Railroad operates from late-May all the way through October during prime NH leaf peeping season. It operates again from Thanksgiving through late December for rides later in the season.

After purchasing your tickets online or at the Hobo Junction Station, you will ride in style in one of their restored vintage rail car coaches. Your trip will take you along the banks of the Pemigewasset River .  This is a historic rail system that has been operational since the late 1800’s.  It was used for logging before it was transformed into a tourist attraction.  

On your railroad adventure it is not uncommon to see fisherman and even kayakers enjoying the scenic NH outdoors. In the Fall the vibrant colors of the changing leaves make for a wonderful view and people from all over the country come to see the Fall Foliage. Having done a train raid with Hobo Railroad in Autumn, I can personally say this a wonderful time of year to take a ride on the Hobo Railroad.  

During the Winter season, the Hobo Railroad has their special “Santa Train” experience on the weekends. This is a great experience for young children!

The Hobo Junction Gift Shop offers a wide variety of train-related gifts, souvenirs, snacks, ice cream treats, soft drinks and bottled water, memorable post cards and collectibles. You have the option of packing a lunch to enjoy on your ride while you experience the views.

You can learn about the rides and ticket information on the Hobo Railroad information page: https://hoborr.com/hobo-rail-road/

Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad offers old-fashioned train rides along the western shore of Lake Winnipesaukee. It travels from Meredith to Weirs Beach. It then continues to Lakeport and then returns back for a wonderful round trip. Lake Winnipesaukee is New Hampshire’s biggest lake and has some wonderful views. It is a beautiful round-trip experience. 

The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad is located in the village of beautiful Meredith, NH. They have a satellite ticket booth located on the Boardwalk at the famous Weirs Beach, NH. In the lat 1800’s it was once the Boston, Concord & Montreal line and the owners transformed it into this popular NH attraction years back. 

Here is what the round trip of the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad experience will take you.  

From the Meredith Station, you can enjoy 2-hour train rides along the Lake Winnipesaukee shoreline. Looking for a shorter ride? There is also a 1-hour train ride option available from their Weirs Beach location. 

The Lake Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad operates daily throughout the NH summer months. It runs weekends during the Fall season. The views from the train car offer up beautiful views of the ‘big lake’ on one side of the train. It delivers views of the stunning lakeside vacation homes on the other side of the car. (Don’t worry, you can see them both).

To learn more about availability and get tickets for the Lake Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad check out their page here: https://hoborr.com/winnipesaukee-scenic-railroad/

Fall Foliage Trains

Autumn is a special time in New Hampshire, and people from all over flock to see the array of colors the trees display. During the Fall season The Hobo Railroad offers a special 4-hour Fall Foliage train ride experience.  

On this NH old-fashioned Fall train ride, you will depart at 11:00am and head north where you’ll travel up and over Ashland Summit. Next up you’ll cross the Ashland High Trestle. You’ll pass through the Bonnie Brae Deer Farm. You’ll then pass by the Glove Hollow Christmas Tree Farm (see also ‘ The 4 Best Christmas Tree Farms In New Hampshire ‘) in Bridgewater before arriving in the quaint Plymouth, NH.

The train will deliver you to the Common Man Inn & Spa, located in Plymouth’s North End. Upon arrival at the Plymouth Common Man, you’ll step off the train and proceed in the dining room to enjoy a delicious, hot buffet lunch. After lunch you will have some time to explore the Common Man facilities and gift shop.  

After your lunch visit to the Common Man you will re-board the train with a full belly and carry on with your old-fashioned train experience.  You will carry on towards Plymouth and Bridgewater again before stopping in Ashland, NH. You will get to see the restored 1869 Boston, Concord & Montreal Railroad Station. At this vintage NH train station you’ll see 1860’s vintage-dressed staff. The staff from the Ashland Historical Societyfstaff will greet you and provide guided tours of the historic station.

After your historic guided tour in Ashland, you’ll re-board the train for the final time and continue south over Ashland Summit. On your return trip you will pass Lake Waukewan and proceed towards Meredith Station where you’ll arrive just after 3:00pm in the afternoon.

When you purchase this special 4-hour Fall Foliage train ride it includes some great options. The Common Man hot buffet lunch, the guided tour of the 1869 Ashland Railroad Station and a souvenir booklet are all part of the package. This is a popular NH experience and it books up quickly so it is recommended to book your tickets well in advance.  

On this special train ride there are few different choices of seating. They have Coach Class, First Class, and even the luxurious Presidential Class.  

For more information and ticket prices check out the Hobo Railroad website here: https://hoborr.com/fall-foliage-trains/

Santa Trains

The Hobo Railroad offers another very popular vintage train ride experience during the Winter months. Introducing the Santa Express Trains experience. Grab the kids as the magic of the Holiday season is in the air and board the train for a memorable experience. Generations of families come back to experience this special train experience year after year.  

The Santa Train Express ride is also known as “Santa Trains.” It begins running the Friday after Thanksgiving, November 26th, and it runs weekends all the way through to Sunday, December 20th. On this magical train ride experience everyone will get to meet Santa & Mrs. Claus.  Children passengers can complete their letters to Santa expressing their dream toy wishes. Every child on the train will get a gift from Santa while on the train!

You have your choice of First Class & Coach Class seating on all of the Santa Express Trains. Coach Class seating is bench-style seating while the First Class seating has dedicated tables. No matter which seating option you choose, the Santa Trains experience is guaranteed to create happy memories. Your children will cherish these memories for a lifetime.  

To learn more about the Santa Trains Express experience visit this page on their website: https://hoborr.com/santa-trains/

Rail Bike Adventures

In 2021 the Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad added an entirely new experience with its Rail Bike Adventures. If you haven’t seen these before they are really cool 2-4 person Rail cars that you pedal so you can get some exercise while taking in some excellent views.  

With the Hobo Rail Bike adventures you can enjoy the beautiful scenery NH Lakes Region has to offer on their state-of-the-art rail bikes. The rail line that these bikes ride along date back to the mid 1800’s so you will be taking in some great history along with the views. The guided rail bike adventure begins and ends at the historic in Veterans Square at the Laconia Railroad Station. This station opened back in 1892 and was operational until the late 1960’s so it carries with it plenty of history.

The rail bikes travel along beautiful route. You will travel over a trestle bridge (see also ‘ Covered Bridges In New Hampshire ‘) crossing the beautiful Winnipesaukee River. Then over Durkee Brook and then along the shores of Lake Winnisquam (which is NH’s 4th largest lake). The ride is mostly flat so don’t worry about any steep inclines. Expect the ride on the rail cars to take you about 2-hours. It is a perfect New Hampshire family-friendly activity is both enjoyable and relaxing. The rail bike experience is perfect for ages five and up.

Safety is primary concern at Rail Bike Adventures. All of these guided tours include well-trained guides at the front and rear of each rail bike group. Flaggers man all road crossings so rest assured you will be in good hands on your rail bike journey. The guides will assist your group as needed to help make sure everyone has a great rail bike experience.

These custom-made rail bikes have very comfortable seats.  Additionally they also have built-in hand-holds and pedals for up to four riders. They all come equipped with hand brakes as well as a basket to store personal items while on your rail bike journey. They also offer some snacks, bottled beverages, train & rail bike apparel at the Laconia Railroad Station Gift Shop.

Bottom line – the Rail Bike adventures is phenomenal way to get outdoors and have a unique experience in beautiful New Hampshire. 

To learn more about the Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad Rail Bike adventure visit this page: https://hoborr.com/rail-bike-adventures/

The History of The Hobo Railroad & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad

The rail lines that this tourist attraction rides along has a long and storied history. Back in the late 1800’s, the 54 miles of track was previously owned by the Boston, Concord & Montreal Railroad.  It once served as one of the primary routes north through New Hampshire.  Tourists used this rail line to make their way from Boston, Hartford and New York to the beautiful lakes and mountains of northern New Hampshire. It also transported passengers to locations even further north such as northern Vermont and even to Montreal, Canada.  

Jumping ahead to the early 1900’s, the rights to the rail line sold to the Boston & Maine Railroad. That operation kept the line active between the Lakes Region and Lincoln, NH. It was primarily used for business purposes (the paper mills industry) but carried some passengers too.  

With the advent of interstate highways the passenger train service slowed down. When the New Hampshire paper mills closed down for good in the late 1970’s the train freight service finally came to an end. The rail line was ultimately purchased by the State of New Hampshire and then the state later put the rail line for lease.

In the late 1980’s Ed and Brenda Clark came to an agreement with the State of New Hampshire and transformed the old rail line into the Hobo Railroad. In the late 1990’s the railroad line expanded even more. Today the Hobo and Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad serves its passengers as a popular tourist attraction.  It transports passengers back to a previous age.  They’re keeping the railroad chugging along and creating memories on every ride!

Final Thoughts About The Hobo Railroad & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad

If you are looking for a great experience take a ride on the Hobo Railroad & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. This NH treasure has great historic train ride options and rail bike adventures.  You and yours can take advantage of these great rides throughout the year. You’re guaranteed some great views! This is a great way to experience the wonderful New Hampshire outdoors. From the comfort of a vintage rail car (or rail bike) you can create some memories that can last a lifetime.  

Learn more about these rides at their website https://hoborr.com/

Location of the Hobo Railroad in Lincoln NH:

Location of the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad:

To see some of our other New Hampshire Guides visit here

• Post author: KyleBattis
• Post published: May 22, 2021
• Post category: Businesses / NH Places

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TWO GREAT RESTAURANTS - One Location

OPENS MAY 11th Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train: (May thru October) Taking reservations now. Two hour train ride with 5 course meal.

  MAKE RESERVATIONS

GIFT CERTIFICATES

CLOSED   The Depot: (December thru March) Station Side Dining Tapas and Spirits. N o reservations necessary. 

A Unique Dinner Train Experience

Located in the scenic White Mountains of New Hampshire, a trip on the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train offers something totally different.  Featuring a two hour train ride complete with a  5 course dinner aboard 1950's restored vintage rail cars, the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train is a dining experience of a lifetime. 

The Trip:  The Cafe Lafayette travels 20 miles along the Pemi River Valley, on a historic timberline dating back to the early 1800's. Once aboard, we head south from our train station in North Woodstock, through the woods, over 3 trestle bridges, through the Jack-O-Lantern golf course, and a Christmas tree farm in Thornton. We then return on the same line back to our train station in North Woodstock.   

Discover Our Dinner Train Menu

  For those with a culinary adventure in mind, come aboard and experience our ever-changing seasonally inspired dishes.  We love food, just like you, and our two-hour train ride gives you an opportunity to savor all of the flavors in our five course meal.

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Granite State Scenic Railroad

Hours updated over 3 months ago

Review Highlights

“ During the ride the conductor makes note of pointing out different points of interest along the route. ” in 4 reviews

“ Not a lot to see - would probably be gorgeous in the fall . ” in 3 reviews

“ The view of the river and bridges and mtns all added to the beauty of the season . ” in 4 reviews

Location & Hours

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64 Railroad St

Lincoln, NH 03251

Amenities and More

About the business.

Established in 1987. Two Great Railroads, Three Amazing Locations! The Hobo Railroad in Lincoln, NH and the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad in Meredith and Weirs Beach, NH share something in common, 54 miles of historic railroad track between Tilton and Lincoln, NH that dates back to 1848. During the mid-1800's, this track was owned by the Boston, Concord & Montreal Railroad. At the time, it served as one of the primary routes north through NH for tourists making their way from cities like Boston, Hartford and NY to the pristine lakes and mountains of Northern NH as well as to points further north including the Northeast Kingdom of VT and Montreal, Canada. …

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Hobo Railroad is such a nice place, beautiful grounds and a great little gift shop. We had a 7 year old train fan in our group (he's a serious railroad buff!) I bought 8 tickets for our family to take the train ride...grandparents, parents and 4 children 15, 10, 7 and 4. We all boarded and got seats all near each other and were looking forward to our ride. I've been visiting the White Mts. for decades and this was my first Hobo train ride. The train ride is approximately 40 minutes long and it goes sloooow. We did have a couple nice view of the river albeit a little dried up and we also had a view of the sewerage treatment plant and a self storage business. The train ride was actually very boring for everyone except the 7 and 4 year old, but the highlight of the trip was the hobos who came around and made things out of balloons for everyone and even gave a lesson on making something out of balloons. The kids were all very happy with their kitty, bunny and swords. It's still a very nice place and a way to take a little rest during the day.

See all photos from Melissa V. for Granite State Scenic Railroad

We rode on the four hour fall special and I was terribly disappointed in the accommodations on the train. We purchased First Class tickets. The photo on the web site showed a car with about 20 or so seats. Looked comfortable and fun. We boarded the train and we're taken to a car with only 2 seats in it and we were left there alone for the trip. When our host, Gary, gave the initial talk, he invited us to come into the other car. Then we returned to our "private car." We saw people if they walked through to see the car and most people said, "why are you here all alone?" Good question!!! I will never take the trip again and cannot recommend it.

Having processed the twenty-four hours of shock and self-loathing that haunted me following our journey on the Christmas Hobo Railroad, I find that the only way forward for me emotionally is to write a review so that other innocent families can be spared the folly of our mistake. The gift shop and ticket counter is, far and away, the nicest space you'll be standing in for the entire evening, so you might as well enjoy the moments you spend crammed in there waiting for your golden ticket. Never mind that your kids are screaming at you to buy them a bubble-blowing dinosaur train: at least this building is up to fire code. The rest of your journey is another story. Ticket in hand, you'll file onto a train that looks and smells like a middle school locker room. Once the gremlins have been safely seated in their nooks, the train departs and the real magic begins. A ten-minute, two-mile-per-hour ride takes us past a MacDonald's and a self-storage unit on our way to Santa's sweatshop. On our particular journey, one family actually forced the train to stop so they could get off at a random intersection. At first, I thought they'd had some sort of family emergency. Now I suspect that they simply got word of what lay ahead and made the wiser choice. Along the way--joy of joys--you're given a pre-filled "Letter to Santa" where the little squibs can scrawl their name in a Mad Lib-style blank for the big man. Thought the magic had reached it's peak? Oh contraire: you're allowed to keep the pencil. That's right, ladies and gents, this trip just paid for itself. Gradually the suburban wasteland recedes, giving way to a ragged collection of last year's yard decorations blinking their mismatched lights. Filing off onto a muddy cow path, you and the kiddos are directed to "mail" those letters to Santa through a slot in the wall of a questionable outbuilding that, in the off season, probably doubles as an abattoir. It might have just been me, but I fancied I could hear the shredders running as the little tykes thrust their handwritten dreams into the slots. At last the pilgrimage leads us to the top of a hill, where six porta-potties line the doors of a poorly-maintenanced Methodist revival tent. The smell of mold smacks you right in the nostrils as you walk in, past some haunted paintings and dusty Christmas displays from your least favorite grandma's attic, and finally into a stadium-seated lecture hall whose carpets are soggy with generations of snowy sludge. Once inside and seated on the floor (Chairs!? That just wouldn't be Christmas magic!), we're treated to the unrehearsed ramblings of four homeschooled elves who clearly have nowhere else to go. Teased with the idea of Santa, we must first endure half a dozen prerecorded singalong songs whole lyrics are so foreign to the elves that their lips don't even attempt to synchronize. After that, a strange beslippered woman in a pajama hat reads The Night Before Christmas to the restless gaggle, berating her hostage audience with a strangely aggressive rendition of this classic story that we did not come to hear. Finally, now that all of the children are so tired and confused that they no longer remember why they came or want anything more than to slip into a blessed oblivion, the Big Man emerges from somewhere in the bowels of this musty hell. Cheerful despite all odds, he chucklingly informs us that he's going to walk around and shake every child's hand and while his demented elves lead us in "a few more songs!" As grim expressions settle onto the faces of each adult, the faces of hardworking men and women who must accept that they've been robbed, fair and square, Santa cheerful prolongs our collective agony for another half hour or so. Was it really just thirty minutes, or a whole separate lifetime of tortured embarrassment? It's hard to be sure and, in the end, it doesn't really matter. The damage has been done. As we file out the creaking door and down the sludgy hill, past teenage elves waving at us like feral camp councilors, many of the parents seem to be telling themselves that this was all ok. That they hadn't just stared into an abyss of cash-mongering Christmas absurdity, and been made to thank the people that did it to them. But, stepping onto the train with your softly weeping Children, you know the truth: that sometimes, even well-meaning parents make dire misjudgments, and some of those are for keeps. Your children might still believe in Santa but, for you and for them, that belief will henceforth be tinged with confusion and fear. Beware the Hobo Railroad. For about the same amount of money you could to see the Nutcracker in Boston, or go out to a nice dinner, or put the kids to bed and house a nice bottle of wine and forget, for just a blessed moment, that you ever considered buying tickets for this cursed train.

This was a great experience for our 6 and 3 year old! They required masks and spaced everyone out. The staff was very friendly and they offered coloring sheets and balloons! Nice views of river and mountains.

Was a fun ride a nice relaxing trip. Nice river views and a nice conductor. For people who enjoy train travel thus us worth the 20 bucks.

Great way to kill an hour and half or so - but it's definitely not exciting scenery . Not a lot to see - would probably be gorgeous in the fall . Ride was relaxing , staff were polite . Ride was enjoyable and there are some things for kids ( balloons , ice cream , clowns ) but I don't think young kids would find it particularly entertaining . We enjoyed ourselves and found it relaxing , and the vintage train car was quite interesting .

This is a train ride that last 40 minutes one way and ends at a golf course and its famed sighting is a fake miniature moose. If you think this is a ride through nature and full of breathtaking views, you will be disappointed. Friendly staff.

Leaf Peeping From A Train Fall in New England to me is a magical time of the year, watching the trees go from bright green to vibrant shades of red, orange and yellows. Spending some time in the White Mountain National Forest during this time of the year makes the time even more spectacular. Add to that a short train ride through the forest and you have a fantastic way to spend an afternoon. Hobo Junction in Lincoln New Hampshire offers fall foliage train rides from mid-September to mid-October. The ride itself is about a hour and a half long round trip. During the ride there are people passing out samples of fall favorites, a cup of warm apple cider, a piece of maple candy and little cup of pumpkin granola, spread out over the course of the trip. There is also a couple of boxed lunch choices available for purchase. I think you need to make that purchase at the time you get your ticket so that they can pick them up on the way out of the station. During the ride the conductor makes note of pointing out different points of interest along the route. The views for foliage are very good, lots of color for this year. The ride itself was very relaxing. The train runs all summer long at different times and days. They have many different features throughout the season. This is a great activity for anyone who enjoys trains and there are some things for the little ones as well.

Great service and a nice ride through the area. The staff was very knowledgeable and helpful. I would recommend giving it a try.

All American tourist trap but if kids in tow and just the right age to still have magical thinking regarding the North Pole, Santa and the elves the Polar Express is a treat you should indulge the children with. They do all the right things: carols on the train ride, hot chocolate for everyone, free scarves and "red carpet service" with candy and front row seating to those with Premier tickets (a must in my opinion). The set and setting is a step above horrid but if creative thought reins the young ones won't notice as Santa's workshop and the magical fairy-like lights the elves carry transports them far away. Most impressive is Santa's patience to touch nearly all the children, hug and hand hold. Truly sweet and a memory generator for years to come.

See all photos from Mr B. for Granite State Scenic Railroad

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This Gorgeous Vintage Train Takes You to the Tallest Mountain Peak in the U.S. Northeast

Looking for a unique summer experience? Here's why you should board the Mount Washington Cog Railway.

Sura Ark/Getty Images

There are a few fantastic ways to get to the top of Mount Washington , the tallest mountain peak in the northeast, located in the great state of New Hampshire. First, you can hike. It's a beautiful journey that takes you from verdant woodlands to the craggy peak over the 4-mile trek up Tuckerman Ravine Trail or Lions Head Trail   — but it also takes about five to nine hours to hike round trip, and it's rated as "extremely challenging," making it a route only experienced hikers should take. You can also make the drive on the Auto Road , which takes about 30 minutes to the top and 30 minutes back again. But, there is one more way to get there that is both easier than hiking and more exciting than merely riding in a car, and that's with the ever-fantastic Mount Washington Cog Railway. 

For more than 150 years, the tiny cog railway has chugged up the mountain, sometimes in a rather steep ascent. As the railway's website notes, it averages a 25 percent grade, though some sections move up to 38 percent, making it the second-steepest mountain-climbing cog railway in the world. And while the ride is available all year long, there's something extra special about making the journey in the summer — especially since the railway operates two coal-fired steam engines throughout the season that it says are both more than 100 years old. 

In the summer, guests can choose between taking one of the hourly biodiesel rides that travel to the summit (which sits at more than 6,200 feet in elevation) or the less frequent coal-fired rides. Both take about three hours round trip, including a one-hour stop at the summit so guests can disembark, explore the peak, and take plenty of pictures. The biodiesel rides start at $74 for adults, while the steam train begins at $87. Guests can book their seats, so do try to book in advance to reserve a window seat. (Though, if you're traveling in a large group, the railway asks that you not reserve all window seats for your entire party.) But don't worry if you're in an aisle. You still get a fantastic view along the way.

Just be cautious when you reach the summit, as Mount Washington is the site of the highest-ever recorded wind speed in America, clocking in at 231 miles per hour . You can always check the daily conditions here before you go, too.

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Pedal The Rails in Concord NH 03301

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Scenic RailRiders is a family owned company which opened in July of 2019 after two years of investigation and planning.

Our family did everything from designing and building our custom made Rail-Bikes from scratch; to clearing and setting up the site; to building our own Rail-Bike storage system.

We were lucky enough to find a beautiful stretch of abandoned railroad tracks in Concord, NH, where the tracks hadn't been taken up to form a rail-trail.  We are excited to be one of only a few companies offering Rail-Bike tours in the New England area.

 Our goal is to provide the public with a safe, enjoyable, unique tourist activity. Our Rail-Bike tours offer a pleasant outdoor experience as you pedal along, enjoying the scenery and tranquil river views. The trip takes you through woods, farm lands, and over a couple bridges, all along the Merrimack River.  We are also happy to pass on some historical facts about the area.

It is our hope that after taking a Rail-Bike tour with us, people will visit the local area restaurants and stores. You are also welcome to head down the road to Sewalls Falls Recreational Area and do some exploring and hike the trails available there. 

About the Tour

Come join us for a Rail-Bike tour on the last remaining section of the Northern Railroad track built in 1846. Our tour covers from just south of 2nd Street in Concord NH to Commercial Street in Boscawen NH.  Truly a unique opportunity to pedal our custom made four wheel Rail-Bikes on the railroad tracks.  The route will take you through some woods, farm lands and along the Merrimack River.  As you travel along these tracks you can enjoy the scenery, tranquil river views and fresh air while getting in a little exercise.  The trip includes a 2.2 mile round trip southern leg and a 4 mile round trip northern leg.  We have two turn-around points where you get to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery along the Merrimack River.  You also get a chance to visit the Hannah Duston Memorial Statue as a destination on our tour.

Come enjoy a scenic railroad ride by railbiking on the train tracks.  You get to enjoy an outside recreational activity which allows you to ride the rails by pedaling a rail bike.  Truly a different form of bicycling a rail trail.  

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Scenic RailRiders

188 Sewalls Falls Road, Concord, NH 03301

(603) 931-1700

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Conway Valley Train

Quick Details

• Calendar Availability: Daily
• Hour Glass Duration: 55 minutes
• Info Miles: 11 miles roundtrip

Conway Scenic Railroad makes every effort to maintain its schedule. Due to mechanical and safety needs, we reserve the right to change equipment, locomotive and passenger cars at any time.

Travel Back in Time on this Heritage Rail Train Excursion!

Travel back in time on this heritage rail excursion! The Conway Valley Train is our classic rural train ride. This 11-mile, 55-minute round-trip journey is ideal if you’re traveling with young children.

At Conway Scenic Railroad, you’ll have the opportunity to watch our locomotive run around the train in preparation for the return trip to North Conway.

All rail excursions depart from our 1874-built Victorian North Conway train station in North Conway Village.

No outside food is allowed on the train. There is a cash only snack bar onboard.

Please Note: CONWAY SCENIC RAILROAD NEITHER OFFERS NOR ACCEPTS COUPONS OF ANY KIND—THANKS!

Related Train Excursions

• most scenic
• Info 50 - 60 miles roundtrip
• Hour Glass 4 - 5.5 hours (depending on trip)

Mountaineer

Our most scenic excursion! This rail journey traverse New Hampshire’s supremely scenic Crawford Notch to recreate travel aboard a classic transcontinental streamlined train.

We offer three classes of travel; Premium Dome, First, and Coach.

• Info 21 miles roundtrip
• Hour Glass 2 hours 10 minutes
• Calendar Daily

Sawyer River Excursion

Take step back in time and enjoy leisurely ride through the Mount Washington Valley to Sawyer River. This is offers a approximately 2-hour-round trip journey along the Saco River and through the woods to Sawyer River.

• New Hampshire's Best Small Towns For A Weekend Escape

Officially admitted to the Union on June 21, 1788, as the 9 th State, New Hampshire is one of the wonderful northern states in the New England region of the American Northeast . Aside from being one of the Thirteen Colonies , the White Mountain State's snowy alpine scenery, spotless water bodies, flourishing wilderness areas, and extensive granite quarries captivate residents and tourists alike. Scattered throughout the state’s 8,954 sq. mi, terrain are uncountable teeny towns offering a pleasant hometown feel and perfect for those in search of a relaxing weekend getaway.

Hanover, a serene college town in Grafton County, chartered by Colonial Governor Benning Wentworth, is situated along the Connecticut River adjoining New Hampshire and Vermont’s Upper Valley region. Called after Hanover, Connecticut - the hometown of most of the community’s early settlers, the town is widely known for being home to the principal campus of Dartmouth College - an Ivy League university and one of the nine higher educational institutions established before the American Revolution . Adventure lovers are especially lured by the Appalachian National Scenic Trail that winds through Hanover’s pleasant downtown, connecting it with various other nature preserves and hiking trails. Apart from touring Dartmouth College’s picturesque campus, travelers must also take note of the massive collection of artworks and artifacts at the Hood Museum of Art, witness a baseball game at Red Rolfe Field, hike the Moose Mountain, watch a movie at Nugget Theater and enjoy a performance at Hopkins Center for the Arts. Satiate your taste buds at Murphy’s On The Green and relax after an eventful day at the Hanover Inn Dartmouth.

Dubbed the “Switzerland of America,” this idyllic Coös County community is situated on the northern tip of the Presidential Mountain Range in Androscoggin Valley. Surrounded by eye-catching natural landscapes, Gorham superbly merges relaxation with adventures. The Gorham Historical Society & Railroad Museum, Medallion Opera House, and Douglas A. Philbrook Red Barn Museum are some of this 2,698-resident town’s remarkable attractions. Participate in hiking, mountain biking, and ATV riding activities during the warmer months, while various winter recreations are available for vacationers in the cold season. Outdoorsy types can access the Presidential Rail Trail, travel up the Mount Washington Auto Road to get unparalleled views of the White Mountain region, observe native wildlife with Gorham Moose Tours, take a guided kayak trip provided by the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, camp at the Moose Brook State Park or stay at first-class accommodations like The Glen House and Top Notch Inn.

Founded on April 3, 1638, by John Wheelwright and a group of clergymen exiled from Massachusetts Bay Colony, Exeter is an enticing river town along the shores of the tidal Squamscott River in southeastern New Hampshire’s Rockingham County. With abundant historical architecture filling Exeter’s tree-lined streets, this 16,049-inhabitant town perfectly amalgamates small-town tranquility and modern-day facilities. In addition to housing the Phillips Exeter Academy, the town also has a lot of engrossing attractions such as the American Independence Museum in Ladd-Gilman House, Gilman Garrison House, Congregational Church, Exeter Town Hall, Exeter Historical Society & Museum, etc. At Exeter’s vibrant downtown, browse the scores of small businesses like Water Street Bookstore, Whirlygigs Toy Shop, and Chocolatier; breweries like Sea Dog Brewing Company; art galleries like the Art Up Front Street Studios & Gallery; diners like Laney & Lu Café; and hotels such as Hampton Inn & Suites Exeter. For those who wish to spend time amidst the greens, the Swasey Parkway, Gilman Park, Robert H. Stewart Waterfront Park, and Founders Park are excellent spots.

New Hampshire’s second-oldest settlement , Portsmouth , located along the Piscataqua River in Rockingham County, is an outstanding summer tourist destination. The National Register-listed Portsmouth Downtown Historic District with over 1,200 colonial and Federal-era buildings reflecting Portsmouth’s maritime heritage, encompasses the entire historic urban core and Market Square of the town. The John Paul Jones House, Governor John Langdon House, Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion, Moffatt-Ladd House, Richard Jackson House, etc., are some interesting house museums. The USS Albacore Museum & Park, Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, Strawbery Banke Museum, Seacoast Repertory Theatre, Music Hall, and North Church are must-visits while on a vacay to the town. Head straight to Prescott Park for outdoor concerts and festivals during summer and de-stress at the Ale House Inn.

Sugar Hill is a picture-perfect Grafton County town that overlooks the White Mountain National Forest and presents panoramic views of the Dalton, Kinsman, Presidential, and Franconia Mountain ranges. Formally incorporated in 1962 and labeled after the sugar maple groves within the town limits, Sugar Hill is acclaimed for its maple syrup heritage. The popular Polly’s Pancake Parlor is noted for its delectable homemade pancakes, French toast doused with maple syrup, and waffles, while the Harman’s Cheese & County Store serves foodies an array of locally-made dishes in addition to high-quality white cheddar cheese. Stop by the Sugar Hill Historical Museum to check out the displayed artifacts and The Sunset Hill House for a comfortable stay. Do try to attend the Sugar Hill Lupine Festival, where the abutting fields are covered with blossoming pink and purple colored lupine flowers only for a short duration annually every June. Festival activities also include an open-air market with local vendors, art shows, concerts, and town dances.

A widely known resort destination in Belknap County, Meredith, dubbed after Sir William Meredith, occupies the core of the state’s Lakes Region on Lake Winnipesaukee’s western edge. Apart from Lake Winnipesaukee, other notable larger and smaller water bodies that lie wholly or partially within the town boundaries include Lake Winnisquam, Pemigewasset Lake, Lake Waukewan, and Wickwas Lake. Moreover, Meredith Village, located between the northern extremity of Meredith Bay and Lake Waukewan, is the town’s commercial center. When visiting Meredith, tour the Meredith Marina, catch theatrical performances at the Winnipesaukee Playhouse, ride the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, discover Meredith Sculptures, shop from the myriad stores at Mill Falls Marketplace, taste wine at Hermit Woods Winery, learn about the bygone days at Meredith Historical Society & Museum, explore the 114-acre Stonedam Island Conservation Area, and rest for the night at Church Landing at Mill Falls - Meredith’s leading lakefront lodge.

Peterborough

This enchanting town, christened after Concord’s leading land speculator, Lieutenant Peter Prescott, is situated in Hillsborough County along the Contoocook River at the intersection of New Hampshire Route 101 and U.S. Route 202. One of Peterborough’s most prominent sites of interest - the MacDowell Colony, is a wooded creative haven that provides support and residencies to over 300 artists, composers, and authors. Countless fine art galleries, antique stores, boutiques, restaurants like Harlow’s Pub & Restaurant, Pearl Restaurant & Oyster Bar, and cozy accommodations like Riverhouse by Weekender fill the town’s retail hub. The Edward MacDowell Lake, Temple Mountain Reservation, and Miller State Park offer ample recreational activities like bird-watching, swimming, kayaking, fishing, cycling, hiking, cross-country skiing, etc., for outdoor enthusiasts. Witness performances staged by Peterborough Players from June to September besides attending any of the town’s yearly celebrations like Thing in the Spring music festival, Greenerborough - a summer festival, Snow Ball, and Children & the Arts Day.

Littleton is a quaint Grafton County town along the Ammonoosuc River banks on the northern extremity of the White Mountains. Called “Chiswick” initially, the settlement was renamed in honor of Colonel Moses Little at the time of its official incorporation in 1784. Vacationers visiting this commercial hub of the state’s North Country region must walk down Littleton’s Main Street and peruse the many local businesses such as Little Village Toy & Book Shop, Lahout’s Ski Shop, Chutters Candy Store, Jax Jr. Cinemas, in addition to the numerous coffee shops, breweries, boutiques, and eateries serving delicious dishes. Furthermore, tourists can also pay tribute to Pollyanna’s bronze statue outside the Littleton Public Library, learn about the past at the Littleton Area Historical Museum, watch a show at the Littleton Opera House, visit the magnificent Riverwalk Covered Bridge, take a stroll along any of the hiking/biking trails, and enjoy their stay at the famed Thayers Inn.

From the high-spirited college town of Hanover to the stunning White Mountain town of Sugar Hill, the gorgeous towns in the 5 th smallest and 10th least populous state of the country lure thousands of vacationers looking for a memorable and authentic New England experience. Boasting sheer natural beauty, fascinating colonial architecture, colorful festivals, lots of recreational activities, great appetizing cuisines, and above all the friendly smiles of welcoming inhabitants, these lesser-known communities in The Granite State are worth checking out either on your long holidays or short weekend escapades.

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This Is The Most Scenic Train Journey In Your State

Posted: December 28, 2023 | Last updated: December 28, 2023

The right track

America grew rich with the foundation of the railroad, and today its railways are still among the best ways for travelers to traverse the home of the brave. From heritage lines pulled by vintage steam engines to highlights of the expansive Amtrak network, we’ve rounded up the most beautiful train journey in each US state.

Though some (we see you Wyoming) are faring well without scenic rail rides, we’ve found something that rail buffs will love in every part of the the country.

Click or scroll through this gallery to discover your state’s most scenic train journey…

Alabama: Calera and Shelby Railroad

Stationed in Calera, just south of Birmingham in central Alabama, the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum hosts rail excursions on a first-generation diesel-electric locomotive. Riding the Calera and Shelby Railroad, which operates on a former slip of the 1891 L&N Alabama Railroad, you’ll pass through the atmospheric forests of Shelby County on a 75-minute journey.

Seats are available in an enclosed coach or an open-air carriage – if you really want to immerse yourself in the scenery. Trips run twice on Saturdays between March and September.

Alaska: Denali Star

The Denali Star is the flagship service of the Alaskan Railroad. Typically operating between May and September, the journey swings from Anchorage – a city that owes its very existence to the Alaskan Railroad – to Fairbanks through the dramatic heart of Denali National Park. In its entirety the expedition lasts an epic 12 hours, traveling through Southcentral and Interior Alaska with views of North America’s tallest mountain, Denali, on a clear day.

The train’s Adventure Class offers large picture windows, while GoldStar Service gets you glass-domed ceilings and access to an outdoor viewing deck.

Arizona: Verde Canyon Railroad

There’s more than one spectacular canyon in Arizona, and you can ride a vintage train right down the spine of this one. Verde Canyon Railroad was built in 1912 to serve the area’s copper mines and has been transporting sightseers year-round since 1990.

Chasing the meanders of the Verde River, this four-hour round-trip takes passengers past Mars-red rock amphitheaters, historic ranch towns, kiwi-colored cacti, and the ancient ruins of Native American civilizations. Watch for bald eagles overhead as you chug along through the wilderness.

Arkansas: Springdale to Van Buren

Operated by the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad, this all-day round-trip from Springdale, deep in the Ozark Mountains, to the city of Van Buren and back racks up 134 miles of track. The trip includes three hours of free time to explore the historic district of downtown Van Buren, which converges around Main Street and its gingerbread-like architecture.

Silver Feather passengers will ride in the train’s panoramic glass-domed dining room in one direction and ride downstairs in the other, offering two different perspectives of the same journey.

California: Pacific Surfliner

Skirting the Golden State’s gleaming Pacific coastline, the Pacific Surfliner train runs between the sun-drenched cities of San Luis Obispo and San Diego, calling in at Santa Barbara and Los Angeles along the way. For just under nine hours, passengers journey through the warmth of SoCal, passing the narrow Simi Valley towards the Santa Susana Mountains.

Gliding through oceanside towns and past strips of yellow sand, watch surfers in the near-distance as salt spray spatters the windows.

Colorado: Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

A National Historic Landmark, the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has occupied a 45-mile stretch of the original Denver and Rio Grande Railway since 1882. Its signature route between Durango’s heritage railway depot and the historic mining town of Silverton opens May through October each year, climbing into the Rocky Mountains alongside the Animas River and looking out onto the brooding San Juan National Forest.

The journey takes three and a half hours each way and includes almost two hours to explore Silverton.

Connecticut: Amtrak Hartford Line

The Amtrak Hartford Line connects leafy New Haven (home to Ivy League juggernaut Yale University) to the city of Springfield in western Massachusetts via Connecticut’s capital, Hartford. Taking just under an hour and a half in its entirety, the journey is the perfect introduction to the state’s pretty cities and to the bucolic beauty of New England, much-loved by American author Mark Twain.

On the leg between Windsor and Windsor Locks, you’ll roll over the Farmington River Railroad Bridge (pictured), which has stood for over 150 years.

Delaware: Wilmington and Western Railroad

The Wilmington and Western Railroad opened in 1872 as a way of transporting goods between the mills of Red Clay Creek and the port of Wilmington. Now it offers passengers the chance to soak up some of the most arresting vistas in the tri-state area, while still paying homage to Delaware’s industrial legacy.

The 10-mile route winds through old milling communities, small canyons, and wooded groves, with the option to de-train at Mount Cuba for a picnic lunch.

Florida: Walt Disney World Railroad

After being out of service for four long years, the Walt Disney World Railroad reopened to passengers in December 2022 with a revamped track and a new conductor. Found within the world-famous tourist attraction’s Magic Kingdom, the nostalgic railroad's fleet of four restored vintage narrow-gauge steam engines leads Disney fans on a leisurely 20-minute ride around the park.

Walt Disney himself was a lifelong rail buff – he loved trains so much that he built a miniature railway in his backyard.

Georgia: Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Tracing the Toccoa River in the Appalachian foothills of northern Georgia, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway coasts along on tracks first laid towards the end of the 19th century. Starting from the downtown depot of the eponymous town of Blue Ridge, this peaceful round-trip journey sweeps through the greens and browns of the Georgian countryside before pausing in the sister towns of McCaysville in Georgia and Copperhill, just over the border in Tennessee.

You can choose to ride in a climate-controlled vintage rail car or an open-air carriage.

Hawaii: Kauai Plantation Railway

On Hawaii’s oldest island, you can learn about the original sugar cane and taro crops that have sustained native Hawaiians since ancient times in a really unique way. The Kauai Plantation Railway tours the 105-acre Kilohana Plantation, where more than 50 varieties of fruit trees, vegetables, flowers, and other plants grow in fragrant orchards, fields, and groves.

The narrated 40-minute journey aboard mahogany-hewn carriages also features a stop to feed the working farm’s animal residents, including pigs, goats, and donkeys.

Idaho: Silverwood Theme Park

Idaho is full of stunning landscapes, but sadly has little to offer those wishing to enjoy them from the tracks. The Gem State’s sole tourist train route, the Thunder Mountain Line, had to close down in 2016, while its lone Amtrak station at Sandpoint is served by the Empire Builder service but only in the dead of night.

However, Silverwood Theme Park, in the panhandle of northern Idaho, does have its own steam train – Engine No 7. It circles the park and ventures into the Silverwood forest, also participating in immersive theater shows.

Illinois: California Zephyr

Spanning 2,424 miles and over 50 hours from Chicago to San Francisco, the California Zephyr is one of Amtrak’s longest routes. The leg through Illinois begins as the train pulls away from the Windy City’s Union Station in the middle of the afternoon and makes its way into Chicago's suburbia.

From the sightseer lounge, Amtrak’s observation car, catch views of pastoral Illinois that will remind you why its nickname is the Prairie State, with grasslands and farms melting into wetlands and trees the closer you get to Iowa.

Indiana: French Lick Scenic Railway

The French Lick Scenic Railway was founded with the desire to replicate the golden age of train travel when trains were the primary vehicle for long-distance travel across America. In addition to hosting a program of themed rail adventures aimed at young families, French Lick runs a scenic ride through parts of the Hoosier National Forest (pictured).

The journey lasts an hour and 45 minutes, departing from a 1907 train depot and twisting through the hills and forests of southern Indiana, passing through the state’s second-longest railroad tunnel in the process.

Iowa: Boone and Scenic Railroad

Since the 1920s, Iowa has lost more than 50% of its rail mileage, which had boomed around the turn of the century. The state retains several heritage stations and railroads that now serve as tourist attractions, and one of these is the Boone and Scenic Railroad.

Its classic Fraser Train facilitates excursions from May to October, starting in Boone and traveling to the old coal-mining settlement of Fraser through the Des Moines River Valley. A literal high point of the journey is crossing the 156-foot Bass Point Creek High Bridge (pictured).

Kansas: Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad

The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad was established in 1993 as a tribute to the Sunflower State’s railroad history. Running on heritage tracks initially laid in 1886, the volunteer-led line's regular excursions through the Smoky Hill River Valley feature vintage carriages and open-air viewing cars, where you can sit and watch the sights of old agricultural Kansas rock by.

The service departs from the listed Rock Island Depot (pictured) in historic Abilene – take the dinner train for a truly magical experience.

Kentucky: Big South Fork Scenic Railway

The Big South Fork Scenic Railway often finds itself high up lists of America's most delightful rail journeys, especially during leaf-peeping season. Perfect for nature lovers and history buffs, this round-trip adventure clanks along accompanied by views of the Daniel Boone National Forest and the Big South Fork River and Recreation Area.

This trip culminates in a two-hour layover at the Barthell Coal Camp where passengers can learn about life during the early 1900s in the southernmost Appalachians.

Louisiana: Sunset Limited

Departing three times a week, the Sunset Limited connects the Big Easy to LA and is the oldest named train in Amtrak's fleet (it turns 130 in 2024). After leaving New Orleans the train remains in Louisiana for around five hours, calling at four stations in the state on a journey that jangles past balcony-trimmed small towns, ethereal bayous, and seas of sugarcane before dipping into dusty Texas.

Maine: Downeaster

Named after the Down East region of maritime Maine, the Amtrak Downeaster links the Pine Tree State to New Hampshire and Massachusetts, from Brunswick to Boston. The route through Maine takes up around half the just over three-hour journey, hugging the rugged coast and taking in stops like Wells – with its seven miles of soft beaches – and Portland, where lobster rolls await.

The terminus town of Brunswick has plenty going for it too, with a year-round farmers’ market and nature-rich bike trails to hit. Five round-trips operate each day.

Maryland: Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

Cruising through the Allegheny Mountains between Cumberland and Frostburg, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad navigates creeks, canyons, streams, bridges, and tunnels on its four-and-a-half-hour round-trip. The historic diesel and steam locomotives climb up the mountainside and traverse thick forest before reaching the charming town of Frostburg, where passengers can hop off and explore.

Willis Mountain, Haystack Mountain, Cash Valley, and Helmstetter Farm are among the most interesting sights along the way. The route operates year-round.

Massachusetts: Cape Cod Central Railroad

Dating back to the mid-1800s, the Cape Cod Central Railroad offers excursions that are not only stunningly scenic but educational too. As the train threads through salt marshes, sand dunes, woodlands, and cranberry bogs, passengers are treated to narrated tales of fruit harvests, canal history, and the cape's coastal ecology.

The classic circular two-hour trip starts from Hyannis and makes its way through idyllic villages like Sandwich (the oldest on the cape) before crossing the landmark Buzzards Bay vertical lift bridge.

Michigan: Blue Water

Amtrak's Blue Water service laces together several Michigan stops between Port Huron and Chicago. It bends around the southern shore of Lake Michigan before heading into the Great Lake State's interior, terminating on Lake Huron's shores.

The westbound Blue Water service makes for a pleasant morning on the tracks, while the eastbound train leaves Chicago in the late afternoon, promising some serious sunset action if you travel when the evenings are longer.

Minnesota: North Shore Scenic Railroad

Minnesota's North Shore Scenic Railroad traverses the westernmost spur of Lake Superior's shoreline. Operating on a 28-mile strip from Duluth to Two Harbors, known as the Lakefront Line, these trains roll along tracks first laid more than 100 years ago, which once contributed to the North Star State's iron ore industry.

The railroad hosts various excursions – treat yourself to a first-class ticket on the Duluth Zephyr, where the major perk is the chance to ride in the Dome Car, its curved windows optimized for sightseeing.

Mississippi: City of New Orleans

Traveling 900 miles and through several decades of America's musical heritage, the City of New Orleans train is one of Amtrak's greatest hits, linking some of the country’s finest cities. The journey between Chicago and New Orleans will strike a particular chord with blues lovers – one of the best stops is Mississippi state capital Jackson (pictured), nicknamed 'the city with soul.'

The southbound service spends more than four hours rattling through Mississippi on a daylight run, flanked by snowy-white cotton fields.

Missouri: Missouri River Runner

With daily departures, the Missouri River Runner crosses the Show-Me State from Kansas City to St Louis in less than six hours. Partially trailing the Missouri River, the longest river in the United States, the train's highlights include the scenic bluffs of Jefferson City, which give way to conservation areas where eagles can be spotted overhead from the comfort of your seat.

As the gap between the train and St Louis closes, lush stands of green foliage herald your approach to the gateway of the west.

Montana: Empire Builder

Tracking through still-wild tracts of land once explored on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Amtrak's formidable Empire Builder train covers more than 40 stations in eight states from Illinois to Washington over the course of 46 hours. Perhaps the most majestic part of the route is the Montana leg, which skates through natural wonders like the Kootenai River Valley (pictured) and Glacier National Park.

Around 12 hours of the Empire Builder’s journey is dedicated to the Treasure State, so you can safely take a nap without fear of missing out.

Nebraska: Omaha Zoo Railroad

Since the Fremont and Elkhorn Valley Railroad ceased operations in 2012, Nebraska now has no standard-gauge scenic train routes to ride. The California Zephyr, Amtrak's most visually impressive journey, passes through at night regardless of your direction of travel, making rail adventures in the Cornhusker State hard to come by.

There is, however, a small steam-powered train offering short trips around Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo, which carries passengers in its open-air cars from March to November every year.

Nevada: Virginia and Truckee Railroad

The so-called 'Queen of the Short Lines,' the Virginia and Truckee Railroad whisks passengers back in time on some of the oldest locomotives in the state. The line has been a fixture of Virginia City since 1869; today, century-old steam engines and heritage diesel trains still depart from the original depot.

Passengers can expect to see some of the most famous Comstock mines and ruins en route to Gold Hill, while listening to the conductor’s stories of the region’s legendary silver rush. Wild horses and raptors call these ranges home, so keep your eyes peeled.

New Hampshire: Mount Washington Cog Railway

The world's first mountain-climbing cog railway, this little locomotive journeys to the peak of the highest mountain in the northeastern United States. Rising above Bretton Woods and New Hampshire's White Mountains, the National Historic Engineering Landmark operates three-hour round-trips daily from May to October.

If you’re lucky enough to dodge the mountain's notorious weather (it can snow on Mount Washington even in summer), the 360-degree views from the summit can extend all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.

New Jersey: Whippany Railway Museum Excursions

An excursion from Whippany Railway Museum starts with a woman dressed all in white welcoming you onto restored vintage carriages. She is a representation of Phoebe Snow, a fictional character who appeared in adverts for the Lackawanna Railroad at the beginning of the 20th century.

Over the course of 45 minutes, you'll follow the route of the historic Whippanong Trail, over a high steel bridge and past all that remains of Lake Passaic, an ex-glacial lake where swamp-dwelling wildlife now roams. Trips run on select spring, summer, and fall days.

New Mexico: Sky Railway

Passengers on New Mexico’s Sky Railway are walking in the footsteps of Hollywood icons Judy Garland and Clark Gable by riding the heritage line. For over 140 years, these tracks have swept travelers across the amber and olive-green landscapes between Santa Fe and Lamy.

There are a few different ways to enjoy the round-trip journey – the Stargazer experience unlocks the mysteries of the night sky above the Galisteo Basin, while the Sunset Serenade sets the coming of dusk to a soundtrack of live music.

New York: The Adirondack

After a three-year hiatus, Amtrak’s much-loved Adirondack service returned to the rails in the spring of 2023. In 10 hours, the route connects New York City to Montreal in Canada, but for the vast majority of the journey upstate New York takes center stage.

The train rolls out of NYC’s Moynihan Train Hall and into the winelands of the Hudson River Valley, passing through serene Saratoga Springs and the Adirondack Mountains. It’s not hard to see why it's often ranked as one of the world’s top scenic train rides, especially when the fall colors catch fire.

North Carolina: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Spanning 53 miles (85km) of track, some of which dates back to the late 19th century, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad runs round trips from Bryson City that traverse secluded patches of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that are hard to reach in other ways. The line’s most scenic excursion transports passengers across the rusting trellis bridge over Fontana Lake and into the heart of the Nantahala Gorge.

Book a ticket in the open-air gondola for uninterrupted views.

North Dakota: Fort Lincoln Trolley

As one of the most sparsely populated and rural states in America, North Dakota doesn’t have too much to contribute when it comes to scenic train journeys. Amtrak’s Empire Builder does pass through, but only one company operates tourist train excursions – and those are currently on pause.

The Fort Lincoln Trolley has historically run from Mandan to Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park (pictured), ferrying passengers in a replica streetcar. But in mid-2023, the owners of the trolley announced their retirement, and it’s not yet known if successors have been found.

Ohio: Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

The Cuyahoga River nourishes dense forests, billowing hills and vast farmlands, and you can see them all in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. There's no better way to tour this green haven than a heritage train carriage, and the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad hosts rail excursions into the park ranging from immersive murder mysteries to boozy cruises.

Keep it traditional with the two-hour National Park Scenic Excursion, operating between January and April (yes, even in the snow). A seat in Upper Dome class promises sublime panoramic views.

Oklahoma: Heartland Flyer

It might not be the longest journey on Amtrak’s route map, but the daily Heartland Flyer from Fort Worth in Texas to Oklahoma City isn’t short on impact. For most of its just-over-four-hour dash, the train slips through the Sooner State’s cities and countryside, running the gauntlet of 'Tornado Alley' and passing through lands rich with Native American history.

Summer is the best time of year to take the northbound service, which offers superb sunsets. Ardmore (pictured) is one of five Oklahoma stations on the line.

Oregon: Mount Hood Railroad

The snow-capped peak, the fluffy tree blossom, the romance of train travel – it could barely be a more inviting scene. Riding the Mount Hood Railroad is a bucket-list experience, starring Oregon's highest point (an active volcano) and the striking valleys of the Columbia River Gorge.

Trips are laid on throughout the year, including special excursions for Christmas, Easter, and Halloween, swinging through woodlands, vineyards, and orchards with Mount Hood and Mount Adams looming above. Hold onto your hat as the train navigates one of only five switchbacks remaining in the US.

Pennsylvania: Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

This tourist train operates out of the historic town of Jim Thorpe, which has been called the Switzerland of America in its time. As its name might suggest, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is swaddled by towering cliffs, mountains, and abundant wildlife on its forested run to Old Penn Haven.

Featuring passenger cars that have been in service since as early as 1917, the train offers open-air, vista-dome, and standard coach seating on its narrated 70-minute round-trip journeys.

Rhode Island: Newport and Narragansett Bay Railroad

Rhode Island might be known as the Ocean State, but you can leave your boat in the dock for this scenic voyage. The Newport and Narragansett Bay Railroad is a fantastic way to explore America's smallest state overland, though the water is never too far away.

Tracing the contours of Narragansett Bay, passengers can opt to ride the rails the unconventional way – on pedal-powered Rail Explorers (pictured) – or aboard the Grand Bellevue, an opulent dinner train guaranteed to only leave you hungry for another trip.

South Carolina: Palmetto

Amtrak’s Palmetto train out of NYC is the cropped variant of the Silver Star and Silver Meteor routes that continue south to Florida through Savannah, Georgia. These only slip through South Carolina in the wee hours, while the Palmetto catches the state famed for its sabal palm trees at much more sociable times.

Passengers can watch as it sails through Charleston (pictured) and Florence, the closest rail station to Myrtle Beach. You’ll rattle through urban sprawls and country parks, past lakes and quaint communities, all without moving a muscle.

South Dakota: Black Hills Central Railroad

The Mount Rushmore State’s only major excursion line, the Black Hills Central Railroad operates on restored, vintage rolling stock. These historic tracks are credited with the emergence of modern South Dakota, having carried settlers and town planners over the plains and into the mountains, for better or worse.

Now they carry the 1880 Train, which provides passengers with a stunning introduction to the dramatic landscapes of these ancient hills. Journeys last for a little over two hours.

Tennessee: Tennessee Valley Railroad

There are a few different excursions on the Tennessee Valley Railroad to choose from, but we love the 50-mile round-trip on the Hiwassee Loop. Here, the line’s tracks tie themselves in knots as they crisscross each other on the train’s journey up the mountain near Farner.

Unlike many heritage rail excursions, there’s no layover on this route, so you can enjoy five hours of unbroken, nostalgic travel.

Texas: Texas Eagle

From end to end, the longest iteration of Amtrak's Texas Eagle route takes a whopping 65 hours to complete, making it America's longest rail journey. The daily service runs just from Chicago to San Antonio, but three times a week it continues on to Los Angeles.

You'll likely snooze through much of Arizona, but the Texas leg is definitely worth staying awake for, as around half the train's journey takes place in the Lone Star State. Expect pine woods, seemingly endless fields, cosmopolitan cities, pretty small towns, and peaceful rivers on your passage.

Utah: Rocky Mountaineer

You get two states for the price of one on the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route, a dramatic two-day journey between Moab, Utah, and Denver, Colorado that includes an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs. While most of the run coasts through Colorado, Utah’s rust-red scenery is impossible to overlook.

After crossing the state line, you’ll see the shadow of Mount Peale rise above the valley, often sprinkled with snow up to early summer, contrasting with the warm scarlet sandstone of Moab and Arches National Park.

Vermont: Champlain Valley Dinner Train

From June through October, the Champlain Valley Dinner Train serves up an indulgent three-course meal with a side order of Green Mountain State splendor. From the window of your 1930s dining car – Vermont’s fastest-moving restaurant – gaze out on the undulating landscapes of green, purple and gold while feasting on delicious dishes that evolve with the seasons.

The decadent journey operates on weekends, departing from and returning to Burlington on the eastern shores of Lake Champlain, where mountains meet Vermont’s most populous metropolis.

Virginia: Northeast Regional

Amtrak’s Northeast Regional is not just a fast and convenient commuter service – it’s also one of the best ways to explore the celebrated state that gave America four of its first five presidents. There are various daily routes of the Northeast Regional that serve Virginia, connecting state capital Richmond to the coastal city of Newport News and Alexandria, the latter of which stands on the western bank of the Potomac River.

You can also use the train to visit Fredericksburg, as well as the historic triangle of Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown.

Washington: Amtrak Cascades

While the Coast Starlight train from Seattle to Los Angeles might get all the fanfare for being one of North America’s greatest train journeys, it’s actually the Amtrak Cascades service that gives you the best span of Washington State. The Washington leg of this route extends from Vancouver in the south (not to be confused with the Canadian city where the train also happens to terminate) to Bellingham in the north, following the shores of Puget Sound out of Seattle (pictured) and into the wilds of the Pacific Northwest.

West Virginia: Cass Scenic Railroad

Located in West Virginia's Pocahontas County, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is unusual among America's roster of state parks, as it was created to preserve and promote a heritage train line. Founded to serve the old lumber company town of Cass, the 11-mile railroad now conveys passengers out of the Greenbrier Valley and up into the mountains on a characterful steam locomotive.

Wisconsin: Osceola and St Croix Valley Railway

Managed by the Minnesota Transportation Museum, the Osceola and St Croix Valley Railway operates seasonal tourist rail journeys through the scenic St Croix River Valley on a vintage locomotive. The route sweeps through gorgeous landscapes marked by waterfalls and blonde sandstone bluffs on a 90-minute round-trip that toes the Minnesota border.

Fall is a particularly wonderful time of year to ride this train; the riverside foliage turns orange and ocher, while birds and animals scramble among the fallen leaves.

Wyoming: Jackson Hole Aerial Tram

With not a single Amtrak service or tourist train ride to speak of, it seems the iron horse is no match for a real one in the Cowboy State. But trains haven’t always been absent from Wyoming, and attractions like the Union Pacific Roundhouse and the Cheyenne Depot Museum document some of the state’s rail heritage.

And if you’re still keen to experience a scenic journey here, riding the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram to the top of Rendezvous Mountain is the next best thing.

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