You’re going to find out about the charming North Shore Scenic Railway, a true gem located along the picturesque Lake Superior coastline. Imagine stepping aboard a vintage train, where every turn offers a window to the past and each whistle stop captures a slice of local history.
With the majestic Lake Superior on your side, the North Shore Scenic Railway offers jaw dropping views and a chance to savor the tranquility of the north woods from the comfort of your seat.
The railway serves not only as a testament to the region’s rich railroading legacy but also as a vessel for a range of excursions. From vibrant Fall Color Tours to family-friendly excursions like the whimsical Pumpkin Patch Train, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss the special events that bring the tracks alive, such as the popular Christmas City Express.
Basic info:
- Name: North Shore Scenic Railway
- Location: Duluth, Minnesota
- Ticket pricing: You have 3 train car options ranging from $20 all the way to $70
- Duration: 1-2 hours depending on which train car you take
- Family friendly? Yes this is one of the best family friendly train rides in the US
- Reviews: Generally 4.6 out of 5 stars
Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Scenic Journey
Now, what goes into creating those breathtaking experiences you’ve read about? This isn’t just about the journey; it’s also about the intricate details that make up the soul of the North Shore Scenic Railway.
Let’s start with the vintage rolling stock. Each car on the railway has its own unique history and restoration story. You’re going to find out about the painstaking efforts to maintain and restore these historic carriages to their former glory, keeping the legacy of American rail travel alive.
The daily grind of operations is something to marvel at. You might wonder how the railway keeps the trains running smoothly, from managing schedules to ensuring passenger safety. This section is going to highlight the operational champions who work tirelessly behind the scenes.
Environmental guardianship is a significant chapter in the railway’s story. The organization doesn’t simply operate trains; it embraces a mission of preserving the scenic vistas along Lake Superior. I’ll dive into how the railway prioritizes natural preservation while sharing the splendor of the North Shore with others.
Community connection is vital. The relationship between the railway and the local communities it touches offers a fascinating insight into regional heritage and the recognition of indigenous lands. I aim to shine a light on these important partnerships and the mutual benefits they entail.
As you absorb the intricate puzzle pieces that compose the North Shore Scenic Railway’s operations, you’ll be well-prepared to plan your visit. In the next section, ‘Tickets to Adventure: Planning Your Visit,’ I’ll guide you through the practical steps to make the most of your scenic train journey. From ticket purchases to choosing the perfect time for your trip, you’ll get all the details you need to ensure an unforgettable experience.
Planning your visit (Ticket breakdown):
I’m going to walk you through the essentials of planning your trip on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. This isn’t just about stepping onto a train; it’s about immersing yourself in an experience.
There are 3 primary trains all of which are located in downtown Duluth (Historic Union Depot). Here’s a breakdown of each one and the pricing:
- Duluth Zephyr: It’s only an 1+ hour trip but it is considered to be the most popular. It takes people through most of Duluth and some parts of the upper North Shore. Tickets are around $20+ for adults and kids. You can also upgrade to the Dome Cars for about $40+.
- Music and Pizza Train: This is a 2+ hour trip that goes further up the North Shore (15+ miles one way) than the Zephyr and has you enjoying meals and music along the way. Tickets here are about the same as for the Zephyr, at around $20+ for Coach seats and $40+ for Dome cars.
- Two Way Harbors Turn: This is the longest running train from Duluth to Two Harbors. Typically it is an all day trip, especially if you do it on weekends but if you’re into scenic trains, this will likely be the one to go on. Tickets for this attraction start at $70+ for adults and kids and slightly more during peak seasons like Autumn ($90+ usually).
Details on all these tickets/attractions can be found on the main North Shore Scenic Railroad website. A few tips:
- Dress in layers for the variable lakefront weather, charge your camera for the spectacular sights, and if you’re a history buff, brush up on the area’s rich past to enhance your trip.
- An itinerary well planned is like a ticket in your hand. Not only will you have peace of mind, but you’ll also maximize your opportunity to build memories aboard this rolling slice of Minnesota heritage.
North Shore Scenic Railway reviews:
Just about every review of the North Shore scenic railroad that I have seen isn’t just positive, it’s beyond 5 stars. Most people focus on the family friendly elements of the rides, as well as the scenic views along the trip.
With these 3 options to ride the rails, you will likely have a very similar, if not better experience with the North Shore Scenic Railway. As someone who has also visited this area, I’m also going to strongly recommend driving through the entire North Shore area if you can as there are many additional sights, hikes and experiences worth seeing there especially Splitrock Lighthouse and Tettegouche state park which are not that far north from Duluth. This may not be one of the best scenic train rides in North America but it may be one of the top 20 in the US overall.
I’d also love to hear your feedback on the North Shore Scenic Railway. Have your own story or a favorite memory tied to the clatter of the tracks? Share it with us and keep the legacy of the railway rolling for generations to come.