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Pennsylvania Ice Cream Trains: A Complete Guide

Published: May 19, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Pennsylvania's rich railroad history combines perfectly with everyone's favorite frozen treat on several scenic railways across the state. These special ice cream train excursions offer families and dessert enthusiasts a unique way to experience both railway heritage and delicious frozen treats.

Colebrookdale Railroad

The Colebrookdale Railroad, also known as the "Secret Valley Line," is a historic railway located in Berks County, Pennsylvania. This scenic rail line runs between Boyertown and Pottstown through the picturesque Secret Valley, following a route that was originally established in 1869.

The railroad played a crucial role in the region's industrial development, particularly in transporting iron ore, steel, and other raw materials during Pennsylvania's industrial age. It helped connect the iron furnaces and forges of the Colebrookdale District to larger markets.

Today, the Colebrookdale Railroad operates as a heritage railway, offering tourists and train enthusiasts a unique experience through restored vintage rail cars. The Colebrookdale Railroad Preservation Trust maintains and operates the line, providing scenic excursions that showcase the area's natural beauty and historical significance.

Passengers can enjoy various themed rides throughout the year, including fall foliage tours, Santa Claus specials, and dinner trains. The railway features meticulously restored cars from the Gilded Age, providing guests with an authentic Victorian-era rail experience.

The two-hour round trip journey takes visitors through dense forests, over rushing creeks, and past historic sites, offering a glimpse into Pennsylvania's rich industrial heritage while preserving an important piece of American railroad history.

During the summer months they host their popular "Sunday Sundaes Adventure", a 90-minute train ride that allows guests to enjoy locally made ice cream from Longacres Modern Dairy.  You can also upgrade to first class to enjoy this experience in their parlor car!

Everett Railroad

The Everett Railroad is a historic shortline railroad located in south-central Pennsylvania. Originally chartered in 1954, the railroad operates between Hollidaysburg and Martinsburg, with its headquarters in Duncansville, Blair County.

The railroad began as a freight-only operation serving local industries but has since evolved to include popular tourist excursions. These scenic train rides, often pulled by restored steam locomotives, allow passengers to experience rail travel as it was in the golden age of railroading. Their steam locomotive #11, built in 1920 by the Alco-Cooke Locomotive Works, is a particular point of pride.

The Everett Railroad plays an important role in the local economy by providing freight service to various businesses along its route. It interchanges with Norfolk Southern Railway, connecting local customers to the national rail network. The railroad handles various commodities including lumber, agricultural products, and industrial materials.

Today, the Everett Railroad successfully combines its freight operations with heritage tourism, offering regular excursions throughout the year, including special seasonal events like fall foliage tours and Santa trains. The railroad serves as both a working freight carrier and a living museum of American railroad history, preserving traditional railroading practices for future generations.

Their "Ice Cream Special" runs on select dates during the summer, a train powered by their historic steam locomotive between  between Hollidaysburg and Roaring Spring.  The railroad states the ice cream will be served at the Roaring Spring Station.

Final Thoughts

Ice cream trains offer a delightful combination of Pennsylvania's railroad heritage and frozen treats. These excursions provide families, tourists, and train enthusiasts a unique way to experience the state's scenic beauty while enjoying a timeless dessert. Whether you're a railway buff, ice cream aficionado, or simply seeking a unique family outing, Pennsylvania's ice cream trains deliver an experience that creates lasting memories.

For specific schedules, rates, and availability, contact individual railways directly as offerings may vary by season and location. Consider making ice cream train excursions part of a larger Pennsylvania travel itinerary to maximize your experience in the Keystone State.