Fall Foliage Train Rides: A Complete Guide
Last revised: January 3, 2025
By: Adam Burns
Fall foliage train tours offer one of the best ways to see the vibrant colors of autumn. These trips have become a very popular event in recent years although their origins can be traced back to the mid-20th century.
Today, several tourist railroads host special fall trips and many sell out. Some organizations which do not offer such even enjoy an increase in ticket sales thanks to the fall colors.
Many are located in the eastern United States where the Appalachian Mountains, carpeted in deciduous forests, provide breathtakingly scenic vistas. As a result, numerous organizations host such events each autumn.
Notables among these are:
- Strasburg Railroad (Pennsylvania)
- Cass Scenic Railroad (West Virginia)
- Tweetise Railroad (North Carolina)
- Adirondack Scenic Railroad (New York)
- Conway Scenic Railway (New Hampshire)
- Green Mountain Railroad (Vermont)
- Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (Tennessee)
- Blue Ridge Scenic Railway (Georgia)
Trips on these railroads regularly sell out. Even if a railroad may not offer a dedicated fall foliage tour many host excursions through October and can still provide great views of the changing colors.
States
If you are very interested in going by train, when planning your trip please take note of the peak season for that particular area.
For instance, locations higher in the mountains such as at Cass, West Virginia (home of the Cass Scenic Railroad) tend to peak much earlier (mid-September) than other areas nearby that sit at a lower elevation like the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway (early November).
Below is a list of most tourist railroads (or museums) that typically host either dedicated fall foliage trains or operate where colors are quite brilliant. If your railroad is not included here please let us know and it will be added.
Finally, unless otherwise noted more information about each excursion can be found by visiting the museum's or railroad's website.
For more information regarding when peak season occurs for different parts of the country please click here. Finally, please click here to learn more about Halloween-themed train rides.
Alaska
Alaska Railroad (Anchorage): The Alaska Railroad does not offer any type of fall foliage excursion but they do offer the finest regular passenger service in the United States via trains like the Denali Star, Coastal Classic, Glacier Discovery. The service is second-to-none and so is the scenery.
The railroad is worth riding any time of year thanks to the spectacular views. Tourists from around the world come to ride the Alaska Railroad for this very reason; it is one of the best ways to see the state's unparalleled beauty.
The railroad begins in Seward along the Kenai Peninsula and snakes its way north to Portage before turning northwesterly into Anchorage.
Along the way you can view stunning fjords and looming mountain peaks. The line then continues north to Wasilla before turning west again to follow the Susitna River within the Denali State Park.
Rails reach Nenana where the Susitna meets the Tanana River; here, the line curves east and terminates at Fairbanks.
California
No known events.
A pair of Maine Central GP7's have a fan trip on the fabled Mountain Division at Crawford Notch, New Hampshire during the fall of 1968. Roger Puta photo.Florida
No events known.
Hawaii
No events known.
Idaho
No events known.
Illinois
No events known.
Louisiana
No events known.
Mississippi
No events known.
Montana
No events known.
Nebraska
No events known.
Nevada
No events known.
New Jersey
No events known.
North Dakota
No events known.
Oklahoma
No events known.
South Carolina
No events known.
South Dakota
No events known.
The "Agawa Canyon Train" heads north along the Agawa River (Ontario) during a fall day in the 1960's. Author's collection.Wyoming
No events known.
Recent Articles
-
Colorado "Valentine's" Train Rides
Jan 30, 26 11:02 AM
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is the kind of trip that feels tailor-made for railfans and casual travelers alike, including during Valentine's weekend. -
Massachusetts "Valentine's" Train Rides
Jan 30, 26 10:37 AM
The Cape Cod Central Railroad (CCCR) blends classic New England scenery with heritage equipment, narrated sightseeing, and some of the region’s best-known “rails-and-meals” experiences. -
California "Valentine's" Train Rides
Jan 30, 26 10:34 AM
Operating out of West Sacramento, this excursion railroad has built a calendar that blends scenery with experiences—wine pours, themed parties, dinner-and-entertainment outings, and seasonal specials… -
Kansas Dinner Train Rides In Abilene
Jan 30, 26 10:27 AM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers. -
Georgia's Dinner Train Rides In Nashville!
Jan 30, 26 10:23 AM
If you’ve ever wished you could slow down, trade traffic for jointed rail, and let a small-town landscape roll by your window while a hot meal is served at your table, the Azalea Sprinter delivers tha… -
Georgia "Wine Tasting" Train Rides In Cordele
Jan 30, 26 10:20 AM
While the railroad offers a range of themed trips throughout the year, one of its most crowd-pleasing special events is the Wine & Cheese Train—a short, scenic round trip designed to feel like… -
Arizona ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 30, 26 10:18 AM
For those who want to experience the charm of Arizona's wine scene while embracing the romance of rail travel, wine tasting train rides offer a memorable journey through the state's picturesque landsc… -
Arkansas ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 30, 26 10:17 AM
This article takes you through the experience of wine tasting train rides in Arkansas, highlighting their offerings, routes, and the delightful blend of history, scenery, and flavor that makes them so… -
Wisconsin ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 29, 26 11:26 PM
Wisconsin might not be the first state that comes to mind when one thinks of wine, but this scenic region is increasingly gaining recognition for its unique offerings in viticulture. -
Illinois Dinner Train Rides At Monticello
Jan 29, 26 02:21 PM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist… -
Vermont "Dinner Train" Rides In Burlington!
Jan 29, 26 01:00 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad. -
California ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 29, 26 12:50 PM
This article explores the charm, routes, and offerings of these unique wine tasting trains that traverse California’s picturesque landscapes. -
Alabama ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 29, 26 12:46 PM
While the state might not be the first to come to mind when one thinks of wine or train travel, the unique concept of wine tasting trains adds a refreshing twist to the Alabama tourism scene. -
Washington's "Wine Tasting" Train Rides
Jan 29, 26 12:39 PM
Here’s a detailed look at where and how to ride, what to expect, and practical tips to make the most of wine tasting by rail in Washington. -
Kentucky ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 29, 26 11:12 AM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Duffy's Cut: A Forgotten Railroad Tragedy
Jan 29, 26 11:05 AM
Duffy's Cut is an unfortunate incident which occurred during the early railroad industry when 57 Irish immigrants died of cholera during the second cholera pandemic. -
Wisconsin Passenger Rail
Jan 28, 26 11:47 PM
This article delves deep into the passenger and commuter train services available throughout Wisconsin, exploring their history, current state, and future potential. -
Connecticut Passenger Rail
Jan 28, 26 11:30 PM
Connecticut's passenger and commuter train network offers an array of options for both local residents and visitors alike. Learn more about these services here. -
South Dakota ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jan 28, 26 12:29 PM
While the state currently does not offer any murder mystery dinner train rides, the popular 1880 Train at the Black Hills Central recently hosted these popular trips! -
Wisconsin ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jan 28, 26 12:23 PM
Whether you're a fan of mystery novels or simply relish a night of theatrical entertainment, Wisconsin's murder mystery dinner trains promise an unforgettable adventure. -
Florida ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 28, 26 11:18 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Texas ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 28, 26 11:08 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 28, 26 11:05 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
Michigan ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 28, 26 11:04 AM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Indiana ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 28, 26 10:59 AM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
South Dakota ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 28, 26 10:57 AM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
Minnesota Valentine's Train Rides
Jan 28, 26 10:51 AM
One of the most charming examples of MTM’s family-friendly programming is “The Love Train,” a Valentine’s-themed day that blends short train rides with crafts, treats, and playful activities inside th… -
Georgia Passenger Rail
Jan 27, 26 10:03 PM
Georgia offers a variety of train services, from historic scenic routes to modern commuter trains serving the Atlanta metropolitan area. -
Illinois Passenger Rail
Jan 27, 26 02:49 PM
Learn more about Illinois's current passenger rail options, ranging from Amtrak to the Twin Cities' light rail service. -
Pennsylvania Passenger Rail
Jan 27, 26 02:40 PM
Here is a detailed, statewide look at the passenger rail services you can use today—focusing on intercity (long-distance and regional) options, primarily operated by Amtrak—plus the major commuter and… -
New Mexico ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 27, 26 01:19 PM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Ohio ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 27, 26 01:10 PM
Among the intriguing ways to experience Ohio's splendor is aboard the wine tasting trains that journey through some of Ohio's most picturesque vineyards and wineries. -
Pennsylvania ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jan 27, 26 12:05 PM
Wine tasting trains are a unique and enchanting way to explore the state’s burgeoning wine scene while enjoying a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes. -
West Virginia's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 27, 26 11:57 AM
West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains. -
Iowa Valentine's Train Rides
Jan 27, 26 10:22 AM
While the Boone & Scenic Valley's calendar is packed with seasonal events, few are as popular—or as tailor-made for couples—as the Valentine Dinner Train. -
Texas Valentine's Train Rides
Jan 27, 26 09:44 AM
On Valentine's Day, the Grapevine Vintage Railroad has become one of the Dallas–Fort Worth area’s most charming "micro-adventures" - and, on Valentine’s Day, one of the region’s most memorable date ni… -
Missouri ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jan 26, 26 01:21 PM
Missouri, with its rich history and scenic landscapes, is home to one location hosting these unique excursion experiences. -
Washington's ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jan 26, 26 01:15 PM
This article delves into what makes murder mystery dinner train rides in Washington State such a captivating experience. -
Utah's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 26, 26 12:48 PM
Utah, a state widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, is also gaining recognition for an unexpected yet delightful experience: wine tasting trains. -
Vermont's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 26, 26 12:40 PM
Known for its stunning green mountains, charming small towns, and burgeoning wine industry, Vermont offers a unique experience that seamlessly blends all these elements: wine tasting train rides. -
Rhode Island's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 26, 26 12:36 PM
It may the smallest state but Rhode Island is home to a unique and upscale train excursion offering wide aboard their trips, the Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad. -
Oregon's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 26, 26 12:25 PM
For those looking to explore this wine paradise in style and comfort, Oregon's wine tasting trains offer a unique and enjoyable way to experience the region's offerings. -
Virginia's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 26, 26 12:07 PM
Wine tasting trains in Virginia provide just that—a unique experience that marries the romance of rail travel with the sensory delights of wine exploration. -
Tennessee's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 26, 26 12:44 AM
One of the most unique and enjoyable ways to savor the flavors of Tennessee’s vineyards is by train aboard the Tennessee Central Railway Museum. -
Texas's Thomas The Train Rides
Jan 25, 26 01:41 PM
In the heart of Texas, where everything is said to be bigger and bolder, lies an event that captures the imagination of children and families alike - A Day Out With Thomas. -
New York's Thomas The Train Rides
Jan 25, 26 01:37 PM
These events, part of a national tour, are crafted for young Thomas fans and their families to enjoy an immersive experience filled with adventure, nostalgia, and sheer joy. -
Connecticut's Dinner Train Rides In Essex!
Jan 25, 26 01:34 PM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme… -
Minnesota's Dinner Train Rides In Duluth!
Jan 25, 26 01:25 PM
One of the best ways to feel the region's history in motion today is aboard the North Shore Scenic Railroad (NSSR), which operates out of Duluth’s historic depot. -
North Carolina's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 25, 26 01:18 PM
A noteworthy way to explore North Carolina's beauty is by hopping aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and sipping fine wine! -
Nevada's - Wine Tasting - Train Rides
Jan 25, 26 01:13 PM
While it may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of wine, you can sip this delight by train in Nevada at the Nevada Northern Railway.
%20during%20a%20fall%20day%20in%20the%201960's.%20Author's%20collection.){kind=link}