There are numerous fall train rides in New England to check out in 2024 and in today’s post, we’ll be covering 10 of them. As renouned as this place is for autumn colors, one of the best ways to experience this is via the rails so let’s get to it!
10 fall train rides in New England to check out:
- Conway scenic railroad (New Hampshire)
- Mount Washington Cog Railway (New Hampshire)
- Cape Cod Central Railroad (Massachusetts)
- Essex Steam Train (Connecticut)
- Green Mountain Railroad (Vermont)
- Hoosac Valley Train Ride (Massachusetts)
- Downeast Scenic Railroad (Maine)
- Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad (New Hampshire)
- Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad (Rhode Island)
- Berkshire Scenic Railway (Massachusetts)
Conway Scenic Railroad (New Hampshire):
This is considered by many to be the most popular fall train ride in New England. It’s located in the White Mountains, the Conway Scenic Railroad offers several routes that take passengers through some of New Hampshire’s most stunning landscapes. The Notch Train, a particular favorite, ventures through Crawford Notch, offering panoramic views of the mountains draped in fall foliage. This historic railroad, with its vintage coaches and domed observation cars, provides a journey back in time amidst a backdrop of autumn splendor.
Mount Washington Cog Railway (New Hampshire):
The Mount Washington Cog Railway presents a unique way to experience New England’s fall beauty. As the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway, it ascends Mount Washington, New England’s highest peak, providing riders with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape awash in autumn colors. The crisp mountain air and unparalleled vistas make this a must-do fall adventure and it’s one of the best scenic train rides in New Hampshire (and New England).
Cape Cod Central Railroad (Massachusetts):
Offering a coastal perspective on New England’s fall beauty, the Cape Cod Central Railroad offers an incredible scenic excursion through woodlands, marshes, and dunes. The Elegant Dinner Train, combining gourmet dining with scenic vistas, makes for a memorable autumn evening. The journey showcases the quieter side of Cape Cod in the fall, with cranberry bogs and saltwater ponds adding to the picturesque scenery.
Essex Steam Train (Connecticut):
The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat in Connecticut takes passengers on a journey through the heart of the Connecticut River Valley, known for its stunning fall foliage. The train, powered by a vintage steam locomotive, chugs along the river, offering views of picturesque landscapes, historic drawbridges, and charming New England towns adorned with autumn colors. On top of the train ride, there is also an additional experience where riders can hop on a riverboat to continue the tour.
Green Mountain Railroad (Vermont):
Vermont’s Green Mountain Railroad offers a quintessential New England fall experience. The trains, departing from Chester and Burlington, travel through the state’s bucolic countryside, past rivers, mountains, and forests ablaze with fall colors. The Chester to Okemo Mountain route is particularly popular, providing stunning views of the Green Mountains in their autumnal glory.
Hoosac Valley Train Ride (Massachusetts):
The Hoosac Valley Train Ride, operated by the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum, explores the rich autumn landscapes of the Berkshires. This short but sweet ride travels between Adams and North Adams, offering views of Mount Greylock and the surrounding hills, which feature some of the region’s most vibrant fall foliage.
Downeast Scenic Railroad (Maine):
Maine’s Downeast Scenic Railroad, departing from Ellsworth, offers a 10-mile round trip that takes passengers through the colorful woodlands and wetlands of Hancock County. The journey provides a glimpse into Maine’s rugged natural beauty during the fall, with opportunities to see wildlife amid the changing leaves.
Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad (New Hampshire):
The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, with departures from Meredith and Weirs Beach, skirts the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. Riders can enjoy views of the lake surrounded by mountains adorned with autumn colors. The train’s leisurely pace allows for ample photo opportunities, especially when the fall foliage reflects off the water’s surface.
Newport And Narragansett Bay Railroad (Rhode Island):
Rhode Island’s Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad offers a unique coastal fall experience. The train travels along Narragansett Bay, offering stunning waterfront views against a backdrop of autumn colors. The dinner train and the Murder Mystery Dinner Train add an element of entertainment to the scenic journey.
Berkshire Scenic Railway (Massachusetts):
The Berkshire Scenic Railway’s Housatonic Line runs between Lenox and Stockbridge, offering a picturesque journey through the heart of the Berkshires. This ride provides a close-up view of New England’s fall foliage, with the added charm of traveling in vintage passenger cars. The surrounding landscape, rich in cultural history, enhances the experience.
When to go:
So depending on the state you visit, there will be certain periods when you’ll be able to catch peak fall foliage and the good news is that I’ve broken it down into groups:
- For any rides in New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont, mid October is the best time to visit
- For Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, late October through mid November is the best time to go
More to explore:
Between these 10 amazing fall train rides in New England are more amazing attractions to explore including scenic drives which may even rival the train experience, amazing fall hikes and much more. I have an additional list of the best places for New England fall foliage for you to check out the next time you go but I hope this list has been very helpful in your planning to see the fall colors by train! If you have any further suggestions on which ones to add to this list, I’d be happy to hear!