Massachusetts Fall Foliage Train Rides: A Complete Guide

Published: March 8, 2025

As the vibrant hues of autumn sweep across Massachusetts, there's no better way to enjoy the spectacle than on a scenic train ride through the state's picturesque landscapes. Fall foliage train excursions combine the charm of classic rail travel with the stunning beauty of nature, offering a uniquely immersive experience. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best train journeys to take in Massachusetts this fall, providing details on what you can expect on each ride.

Cape Cod Scenic Railroad (Hyannis)

Although known for its beaches and maritime history, Cape Cod offers a unique fall experience. The Cape Cod Central Railroad provides a relaxing journey through bogs, marshes, and quaint towns, revealing a side of this famous region that's often unexplored.

The railroad is an upscale heritage railroad which offers a wide range of dinner trains and specials throughout the year.

While it does not host an official fall foliage excursion its schedule runs through October, allowing passenger to enjoy a train ride at the height of a New England autumn.

Few other places in America offer such vibrant colors of reds, yellows, and burgundies. The railroad operates just over 24 miles of an old New York, New Haven & Hartford branch between Hyannis and Buzzards Bay.

Trains depart from the former town at the preserved, two-story wooden NYNH&H depot built in the early 1900's (located at 252 Main Street).

Your trip takes you north out of town near the Barnstable Municipal Airport and past the Cummaquid Golf Club before turning west through a mixture of woodland and suburban homes.

You will briefly pass the Great Marshes and continue northwest before reaching the Cape Cod Canal which connects Cape Cod Bay with Buzzards Bay.

The trip concludes at another preserved New Haven depot, this one in Buzzards Bay, a one-story brick/stucco structure completed in 1912.

Notable Routes

Scenic Trains: These rides travel between Hyannis and Sandwich, offering not just foliage views but also glimpses of the Cape's diverse ecological settings.

Dinner Train: For a more luxurious experience, partake in a dining excursion that pairs breathtaking vistas with gourmet meals.

Berkshire Scenic Railway (Adams)

Nestled in the rolling hills of western Massachusetts, the Berkshire Scenic Railway offers a delightful journey through the scenic Berkshire region. Known for its quaint towns and vibrant arts scene, the Berkshires become even more enchanting as leaves transform into shades of red, gold, and amber.

This all-volunteer organization has been in service since 1984 and until 2011 used the tracks of freight carrier Housatonic Railroad.

That changed after the company no longer wanted train rides hosted over its rails so the museum worked out an agreement to operate about 5 miles of the former New York Central between Adams and North Adams in 2016.

The museum's operating season lasts from May through October; during this time they host several special events, including during the fall. The line follows the scenic Hoosic River as well as small farms along the way. All trips depart from Adams where the former NYC line has been partially rebuilt to reach the town.

Notable Routes

Housatonic Line: Running between North Adams and Adams, this tour provides a short but picturesque trip showcasing the charm of small New England towns set against the backdrop of fall foliage.

Hoosac Valley Excursion Train: This classic route between Adams and North Adams features vintage rail cars and offers stunning views of Mount Greylock, Massachusetts' highest peak, resplendent in its autumn glory.

Overview

Exploring Massachusetts’ fall foliage via train is an enchanting way to engage with the season's natural beauty while experiencing timeless travel. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or simply a day to admire the splendor of nature, the state's railways offer a charming escape perfect for all. Reserve your tickets, grab your camera, and prepare for a memorable autumn journey on Massachusetts’ foliage train rides.