Pennsylvania Christmas Train Rides In Hollidaysburg!
Published: December 17, 2025
By: Adam Burns
Tucked into the wooded valleys and rolling farmland of Blair County, Pennsylvania, the Everett Railroad has grown from a tiny short line into one of the region’s most beloved heritage railroads. Today it offers scenic excursions, hands-on steam experiences, and one of the state’s most popular Christmas trains: the Santa Express.
What began as a modest effort to preserve freight service in rural central Pennsylvania has blossomed into a thriving operation that combines working railroading with immersive historical interpretation. The Everett Railroad’s story reflects both the resilience of short lines and the enduring appeal of classic American railroading.
Everett Railroad 2-6-0 #11 leads the "Santa Express" south near Blair Township on December 2, 2023. Doug Kroll photo.Early Background: A Rural Lifeline
The original Everett Railroad traces its lineage to the Hollidaysburg & Hopewell Railroad, chartered in 1859 to connect the canal and industrial center of Hollidaysburg with the rich timber and ore lands to the south.
Financial difficulties prevented full construction, but in 1867 the reorganized Bedford & Bridgeport Railroad (later controlled by the Pennsylvania Railroad) extended tracks into the region, ultimately creating the branch line that would form the backbone of the modern Everett system.
By the early 20th century, the Pennsylvania Railroad had absorbed or influenced most railroads in the region. Through its control of the Hollidaysburg–Sproul–Claysburg corridor, the PRR provided small towns with essential freight service—lumber, grain, livestock, and coal moved north toward Altoona and south toward Bedford. Passenger service was sparse but steady, especially before World War II, when small mixed trains still served the valleys.
The postwar years, however, brought massive reductions in rural branch-line traffic. Trucks and improved roads meant shippers no longer depended on local railheads. By the 1970s, Penn Central’s bankruptcy and Conrail’s formation placed these lines at risk of abandonment.
A New Beginning
The modern Everett Railroad was born in 1982, created by entrepreneur and lifelong railroader Alan Maples, who sought to preserve freight service over a segment of former Penn Central track near Everett, Pennsylvania. Initially operating just a few miles of line, the company served industries that still relied on rail, preventing the corridor from disappearing entirely.
When Conrail shed more branch lines in the 1990s, Maples saw opportunity for expansion. In 1995, the Everett Railroad acquired the Duncansville–Sproul–Martinsburg route, a former PRR branch vital to several grain mills and manufacturing businesses. This purchase shifted the railroad’s operations northward, closer to Altoona, and formed the core of the railroad’s present-day freight network.
The decision proved wise. The region’s agricultural producers remained committed to rail, and the Everett Railroad soon established itself as a stable, customer-focused short line. Regular freight interchanges with Norfolk Southern at Hollidaysburg ensured reliable service and gave the line long-term relevance in the region’s transportation picture.
The Move Into Excursion Service
As freight operations stabilized, the Everett Railroad began exploring tourist excursions—first on a limited basis, then eventually as a major component of its business model. The line’s proximity to Altoona and the famed Horseshoe Curve, along with its own picturesque farmland and wooded hollows, made it well-suited for scenic rail tourism.
A key turning point came in 2015, when the Everett Railroad completed the restoration of former Huntingdon & Broad Top Mountain 2-6-0 steam locomotive No. 11, a 1901 Baldwin product. No. 11 had been dormant since the 1950s, but under the railroad’s meticulous mechanical work it returned to steam as the centerpiece of the new Everett Railroad steam program.
The locomotive’s debut drew national attention within the rail preservation community. Excursions behind No. 11 followed between Hollidaysburg, Duncansville, and Martinsburg over classic PRR rails, showcasing the rural charm of the Morrisons Cove region. Wooden trestles, small-town storefronts, and open farmland provided an authentic backdrop for vintage railroading.
Since then, the Everett Railroad has steadily grown its tourist offerings, becoming a standout heritage operation in Pennsylvania.
Present-Day Excursions
Today the Everett Railroad offers a mix of seasonal and theme-based excursions throughout the year. Each ride emphasizes history, family fun, and an up-close view of traditional steam railroading
Steam-Powered Excursions
Many of the railroad’s scheduled outings use No. 11, giving passengers a rare opportunity to experience early-20th-century steam power in action. Excursions typically run between Hollidaysburg and Brooke Mills, with longer seasonal trips reaching Martinsburg.
Riders are treated to a classic short-line setting: farm fields, Amish homesteads, tight curves, and quiet crossings where the locomotive’s whistle echoes across the valley.
Fall Foliage Trains
During October, the Everett Railroad’s annual Fall Foliage Excursions draw visitors from across Pennsylvania. The Morrisons Cove valley bursts into color, and the railroad adds open-air cars so passengers can fully enjoy the scenery. These are among the most popular non-holiday trains of the year.
Pumpkin Patch Trains
Families flock to these autumn outings, which combine a traditional excursion with a stop at a local pumpkin patch. Children can pick out a pumpkin, meet costumed characters, and enjoy the rural setting—creating a lighthearted seasonal event that the railroad’s volunteers have perfected.
Ice Cream and Picnic Trains
In summer, shorter warm-weather outings cater to families and day-trippers, offering ice cream treats or onboard picnic baskets. These trains showcase the lush greenery of the valley and provide an easy, relaxed way to ride behind steam.
The Santa Express
The highlight of the Everett Railroad’s calendar is the annual Santa Express, a beloved Christmas season tradition that transforms the railroad into a rolling festival of lights, decorations, cookies, and holiday cheer. For many families throughout central Pennsylvania, this train marks the start of the holiday season.
What Guests Experience
The train generally departs from Hollidaysburg, with trains operating on select dates from late November through late December. Excursions usually last around 60–75 minutes, making them ideal for children while still offering a full and festive experience.
Onboard, guests encounter a holiday atmosphere from the moment they board:
- Cars decorated with garland, lights, and classic Christmas ornaments
- Traditional carols and holiday music throughout the train
- Cookies and hot chocolate served by cheerful volunteer elves
- A visit from Santa Claus, who personally greets each child and poses for photos
- A small treat or gift for each young passenger
The Everett Railroad’s emphasis on personal interaction sets the Santa Express apart. Santa’s visit is unhurried, warm, and tailored to each family. Crews encourage children to wear pajamas, bring letters for Santa, and fully immerse themselves in the spirit of the season.
Steam, Snow, and Scenery
When possible, the railroad powers these trains with steam locomotive No. 11, further enhancing the holiday charm. On frosty days, the locomotive’s plume rising into the winter air creates a picture-perfect vintage scene straight from a Christmas card. Snow-dusted fields, farmhouses, and small towns along the line lend authenticity and beauty to the journey.
Popularity and Community Role
Because these outings routinely sell out—especially afternoon and evening departures—many families return year after year, creating a multi-generational holiday tradition. The Santa Express also serves a broader community purpose:
- It brings visitors into Hollidaysburg, supporting restaurants and shops.
- It strengthens regional heritage by introducing children to historic railroading.
- It provides seasonal volunteer opportunities for local residents.
The Everett Railroad has partnered with nearby groups, schools, and charities during the holiday season, making the Santa Express a fixture not just for railfans but for the community at large.
A Railroad With Heart and Heritage
In a state rich with railroad tradition, the Everett Railroad stands out for its balance of living history, community engagement, and family-focused events. Its story—rescuing rural freight service, reviving steam in the 21st century, and creating beloved seasonal traditions—reflects what short-line preservation can achieve when passion meets purpose.
During the Christmas season, the Santa Express captures everything that makes this railroad special: warm hospitality, authentic holiday spirit, and the magic of hearing a steam whistle echo through a winter valley.
For visitors of all ages, a trip on the railroad is more than an excursion—it is a memorable journey into Pennsylvania’s railroading past and a celebration of its enduring charm. To learn more about the Santa Express and booking tickets please click here.
Recent Articles
-
California -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:56 AM
While the Niles Canyon Railway is known for family-friendly weekend excursions and seasonal classics, one of its most popular grown-up offerings is Beer on the Rails. -
New Jersey -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:53 AM
On select dates, the Woodstown Central Railroad pairs its scenery with one of South Jersey’s most enjoyable grown-up itineraries: the Brew to Brew Train. -
Georgia -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:52 AM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
North Carolina -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:31 AM
North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides. -
Michigan -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:28 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
Aug 09, 26 10:26 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. -
Illinois -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:19 AM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Maryland -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:05 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
East Broad Top Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 09, 26 12:09 AM
The East Broad Top Railroad at Rockhill Furnace / Orbisonia, Pennsylvania is not a mass-market “leaf special” brand so much as a living industrial-history railroad whose public calendar runs deep into… -
Strasburg Rail Road Whiskey on the Rails (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:28 PM
Whiskey on the Rails is the Strasburg Rail Road’s intimate adult spirits product: a roughly 45-minute to one-hour steam ride through Lancaster County Amish Country aboard historic First Class Dining C… -
Indiana Whiskey & Bourbon Tasting Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 01:53 PM
Among IRE’s most talked-about offerings is the Wine & Whiskey Train—an adults-only, evening-style trip that leans into the best parts of classic rail travel: atmosphere, comfort, and a… -
Minnesota -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 01:04 PM
Among the North Shore Scenic Railroad's special events, one consistently rises to the top for adults looking for a lively night out: the Beer Tasting Train. -
New Mexico Whiskey Tasting Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 12:52 PM
New Mexico’s high-desert rail scene has a clear spirits star: Sky Railway in Santa Fe, whose special-event calendar includes Whiskey on the Rails—a 21+ pop-up pairing Santa Fe Spirits with a round tri… -
Connecticut -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ &a… -
Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:44 AM
The Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad—marketed as the Duluth River Train—offers a volunteer-run, roughly two-hour narrated round trip along the St. Louis River estuary from West Duluth. -
Coopersville & Marne Railway Fall / Pumpkin Trains (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:19 AM
The Friends of the Coopersville & Marne Railway run West Michigan’s best-known autumn family train: the Pumpkin Train on October weekends, a roughly 90-minute Coopersville–Marne round trip with costum… -
Cape Cod Central Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:12 AM
The Cape Cod Central Railroad is southeastern Massachusetts’s main tourist-and-dining rail product: narrated scenic trains and multi-course dining trains from Hyannis, West Barnstable, and Buzzards Ba… -
Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 10:39 AM
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad in Boone, Iowa is the Midwest’s high-bridge foliage train: Fraser excursions cross the towering Bass Point Creek High Bridge through the Des Moines River valley as h… -
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 08, 26 10:18 AM
The Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad markets a dedicated Fall Foliage Train Ride from its Unity, Maine venue: roughly a one-hour round trip through Waldo County woods and farmland when birch, maple… -
Pennsylvania -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:06 AM
The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride. -
Alabama -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:04 AM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
South Dakota -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:02 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. -
West Virginia -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:00 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. -
New Mexico -- Murder Mystery -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 09:58 AM
Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails. -
Maryland -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 09:55 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
Whitewater Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Flyer (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:27 AM
The Whitewater Valley Railroad markets a dedicated Fall Foliage Flyer each October: a five-hour weekday round trip from Connersville, Indiana to historic Metamora with a two-hour layover for shopping… -
North Shore Scenic Railroad Fall Colors Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:17 AM
The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth, Minnesota—operated with the Lake Superior Railroad Museum from historic Duluth Union Depot—markets the Two Harbors Fall Colors Tour as its headline autumn pr… -
Leadville Railroad Fall Train Rides (2026)
Aug 07, 26 11:55 PM
The Leadville Railroad (formerly marketed as the Leadville, Colorado & Southern) runs from historic Leadville, Colorado—one of the highest incorporated cities in the U.S.—into the surrounding Rockies… -
FWRHS Acquires Nickel Plate Road Business Car No. 1
Aug 07, 26 11:48 PM
The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society (FWRHS) has acquired Nickel Plate Road business car No. 1, a 1929 Pullman built for the Van Sweringen brothers’ rail empire. -
Santa Fe Bicentennial SD45-2 No. 5704 To Attend America 250 Event
Aug 07, 26 11:44 PM
The Southern California Railway Museum’s restored Santa Fe Railway SD45-2 No. 5704 is eastbound for the America 250 Locomotive Celebration at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, set f… -
IRM Repaints Ingersoll-Rand 91 in 1976 Bicentennial Livery
Aug 07, 26 11:25 PM
Illinois Railway Museum Diesel Department volunteers have cosmetically restored the museum’s oldest diesel locomotive, Ingersoll-Rand No. 91, to the red, white, and blue scheme it wore for the 1976 Un… -
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 10:22 PM
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway in Nelsonville, Ohio is the Hocking Hills region’s dedicated autumn rail product. Each year the railroad markets October Fall Foliage trains—roughly two-hour round tr… -
Delaware & Ulster Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 07:12 PM
The Delaware & Ulster Railroad (DURR) is back as a Catskills heritage operation from Arkville, New York, marketing scenic rides every Saturday through fall 2026. -
Durango & Silverton Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 03:19 PM
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is southwest Colorado’s bucket-list autumn steam (and diesel) ride: a climb from Durango through the Animas Canyon toward historic Silverton, with San Jua… -
Michigan -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:51 PM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration. -
Virginia Scenic Sip & Savor Express (2026): Wine & Cider Tasting Train
Aug 07, 26 12:42 PM
The Sip & Savor Express is the Virginia Scenic Railway’s flagship tasting product: a about three-hour guided wine or cider experience with artisan charcuterie, departing from either Louisa or Staunton… -
Virginia -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:39 PM
Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel. -
Utah -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:32 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 -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:25 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. -
North Carolina -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:21 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Western Maryland Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:56 PM
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) in Cumberland, Maryland runs one of the Mid-Atlantic’s best-known Murder Mystery Dinner Trains: a roughly three-hour, 21+ evening with dinner and interactiv… -
Warren County Winery Train Phillipsburg NJ (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:37 PM
The Warren County Winery Train, operated by Delaware River Railroad Excursions from Phillipsburg, New Jersey, is a high-frequency wine tasting product. -
River Fox Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:19 PM
The River Fox Train (Sacramento RiverTrain operations) in West Sacramento, California runs a Murder Mystery Dinner Train for ages 21+: dinner and dessert plus interactive theater as characters scheme… -
Monticello Railway Museum Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 01:33 PM
The Monticello Railway Museum in Monticello, Illinois hosts the state’s main Murder Mystery Dinner Train: an approximately two-hour evening with a three-course meal prepared by Michaels’ Catering of C… -
Cumbres & Toltec Fall Colors Train Ride (2026): Aspens, Pass & Tips
Aug 06, 26 12:45 PM
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad straddles the Colorado–New Mexico line between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado—a steam-powered narrow-gauge climb over Cumbres Pass through aspen forests… -
LM&M Murder Mystery Train Lebanon OH (2026)
Aug 06, 26 12:04 PM
The Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad (LM&M) in Lebanon, Ohio offers a Murder Mystery Train built for Cincinnati/Dayton day-trippers: about three hours total, 21+, with interactive theater from The Murder… -
Heber Valley Wine & Cheese Tasting Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 11:58 AM
The Heber Valley Railroad in Heber City, Utah markets a Wine & Cheese Tasting Train as its signature adult tasting product: a roughly 90-minute evening ride with a guided five-course wine tasting and… -
Backcountry Wine Train, Campo CA (2026)
Aug 06, 26 11:13 AM
The Backcountry Wine Train is the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum’s adults-oriented wine tasting excursion from the Campo Railroad Museum in San Diego County’s East County high desert. -
Rhode Island -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 06, 26 10:19 AM
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. -
Maryland -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 06, 26 09:46 AM
You can enjoy whiskey tasting by train at just one location in Maryland, the popular Western Maryland Scenic Railroad based in Cumberland.
