1. Home
 ›
2. Christmas Train Rides
 ›
3. Colebrookdale Railroad

Pennsylvania Christmas Train Rides At The Colebrookdale Railroad!

Published: October 22, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Tucked into the wooded folds of southeastern Pennsylvania, the Colebrookdale Railroad is a living piece of American industrial heritage reborn as a boutique excursion line. Known affectionately as the Secret Valley Line, it connects Boyertown and Pottstown over a short stretch of track that once carried iron, lumber, and limestone through the heart of Berks County. Today, it carries something different—memory-rich experiences in exquisitely restored, vintage railcars. Among its many themed excursions, the seasonal Christmas trains have become a cherished tradition for families, railfans, and holiday romantics alike, blending Old World elegance with small-town warmth.

A brief history and a special setting

The original Colebrookdale line dates back to the 19th century, when southeastern Pennsylvania was an iron-making powerhouse. The corridor’s chiseled rock cuts, stone culverts, and tall timber whisper of that past, and the route’s relative seclusion earned it the “Secret Valley” nickname. As the region’s industrial needs changed, the line quieted, then nearly went dark.

In recent years, a community-led preservation effort revived it as a heritage railroad. The Colebrookdale Railroad Preservation Trust has painstakingly restored classic railcars—some with polished wood, plush seating, and period lighting—so passengers can savor the ambiance of early 20th-century rail travel. The railroad now runs a robust calendar of excursions from spring through winter, including foliage trips, special dining trains, and the beloved Christmas season rides.

What the ride is like
The standard excursion runs roughly 90 minutes to two hours round-trip, traveling between Boyertown and the Pottstown area through the Secret Valley. Even outside the holidays, the scenery is a draw: dense forests, creek crossings, dramatic rock faces, and occasional wildlife. Inside, the cars are the star—each restored with an eye toward comfort and historical detail. Seating options typically range from standard coach to upgraded experiences in lounge or parlor accommodations. The vibe is unhurried and immersive, perfect for conversation, reflection, and photos.

The Christmas trains: a highlight of the year
When the holidays arrive, the entire experience takes on a new glow—literally. The railroad decks its cars in garlands, twinkle lights, and seasonal vignettes. The station area turns festive, and the onboard team brings playful, family-friendly charm to each run. While names and exact offerings can vary by year, the Colebrookdale Railroad generally offers two core holiday experiences:

- Daytime Santa trains: Family-focused rides where Santa visits each car, greeting children and posing for photos. Expect hot cocoa, cookies, and small treats, plus caroling or festive music. The atmosphere is relaxed and cheerful, with plenty of opportunities to soak in views of the winter woods.

- Evening Christmas storytelling or “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” trains: A cozier, candlelit (or glow-lit) experience with narration, readings, or carols. Santa may still appear, but the emphasis leans toward atmosphere—soft lights, classic holiday tales, and the hushed magic of the Secret Valley after dark.

Both experiences celebrate tradition without feeling overly commercial. The staff and volunteers are enthusiastic hosts, often sharing a bit of railroad lore, helping with family photos, and ensuring kids feel the wonder of the moment.

Seating classes and amenities
Colebrookdale’s cars are a big part of the appeal. While the exact lineup can vary, expect options such as:

- Coach: Comfortable, classic seating at the most accessible price point. Heat keeps the cars cozy, and windows offer good views throughout.

- Deluxe or lounge/parlor seating: Upgraded surroundings with more ornate décor—think polished wood, vintage fixtures, and plush seats. Some packages include enhanced snacks or table service.

- Dining tables or café-style seating: On select trains, small plates, desserts, or beverage service may be available as an add-on.

Open-air cars are a warm-weather favorite, but winter operations prioritize heated interiors. Regardless of class, the railroad maintains a unifying emphasis on elegance, hospitality, and authenticity.

Who it’s perfect for

- Families: Daytime Santa trains are gentle, festive, and just the right length for youngsters. There’s typically a meet-and-greet with Santa, holiday treats, and lively music.

- Couples: The evening storytelling rides are genuinely romantic—soft lights, warm drinks, and quiet scenery feel like a step back in time.

- Multi-generational outings: Grandparents, parents, and kids can all settle into the shared nostalgia of classic rail travel. The pace is relaxed, and the experience is as much about being together as it is about the destination.

- Photographers and railfans: The heritage equipment and historic right-of-way provide endless visual interest, especially with holiday décor.

Planning tips
- Book early. Christmas trains often sell out, especially weekends and prime evening departures. Tickets are usually released well ahead of the holidays.

- Arrive with time to spare. Plan to be at the station 30–45 minutes before departure to check in, take photos, visit the gift shop, and settle in without rushing.

- Dress for the season. Cars are heated, but station platforms and boarding areas are outdoors. Layer up, and don’t forget hats and gloves.

- Mind the daylight. If you want wintry landscape photos, choose a daytime Santa run. For twinkle-lit ambiance and storytelling, pick an evening departure.

- Consider upgrades. If you’re celebrating or want a quieter atmosphere, premium seating can be worth it.

- Food and drink. Cocoa and cookies are holiday staples, and some trains offer additional snacks or drinks. If you have allergies or dietary needs, check options when booking.

- Accessibility. Heritage equipment can pose challenges; if accessibility is important to your party, contact the railroad in advance to discuss the best arrangements. Sorry, I don’t know the exact details of current accessibility accommodations.

- Parking and directions. The primary boarding point is in Boyertown. Exact parking instructions are provided in your ticketing confirmation; follow official guidance to avoid delays.

Community impact and craftsmanship
Part of what makes the Colebrookdale Railroad special is its role in regional revitalization. The operation supports local jobs, attracts tourism to Boyertown and Pottstown, and keeps traditional skills—car restoration, carpentry, mechanical work—alive. Each holiday season, the railroad’s volunteers and staff go to extraordinary lengths to decorate the cars, curate programming, and ensure consistency across dozens of departures. That “handmade” quality is palpable; it’s the difference between an assembly-line attraction and a heartfelt tradition.

What sets Colebrookdale’s Christmas trains apart
- Intimate scale: The railroad isn’t sprawling; that’s a strength. You feel known and welcomed, not swept along with a crowd.

- Authentic elegance: The cars aren’t themed props—they’re real, lovingly restored pieces of history. The holiday adornments enhance rather than overshadow that authenticity.

- Setting: The Secret Valley’s wooded tunnel and stonework create a naturally cinematic backdrop. A dusting of snow transforms it into a storybook scene.

- Heart: From the conductor’s announcements to Santa’s gentle pace through the train, the tone is unhurried, sincere, and genuinely family-first.

How to make the most of it
- Pair your ride with a local outing. Boyertown’s small businesses, cafes, and galleries make for a pleasant pre- or post-ride stroll. Holiday markets and town events often coincide with the season.

- Bring a small tote. It’s handy for gloves, cocoa-friendly lids, and any souvenirs or kids’ crafts.

- Set expectations with youngsters. The ride is about 90–120 minutes. Let kids know when Santa is likely to visit and encourage them to keep an eye on the windows for winter scenery.

- Put the phone down for a bit. By all means, take photos—but then lean into the rare opportunity to simply sit, talk, and watch the world roll by.

A tradition worth keeping

In a season defined by countdowns and checklists, the Colebrookdale Railroad’s Christmas trains invite you to linger. They weave together history, craftsmanship, and community, offering an experience that manages to be both grand and intimate.

Whether you’re starting a new family ritual, revisiting childhood memories, or introducing someone you love to the romance of rail travel, the Secret Valley Line delivers something rare: a holiday outing that feels timeless.

For current schedules, pricing, seat classes, and any special events added for the season, check the railroad’s official website and book as early as you can—those twinkle-lit seats go fast.