Fall is one of the most beautiful times to explore the outdoors in Pennsylvania and there’s no better way than a foliage train ride, so all aboard! Sit back, grab your camera, and enjoy the fall views on the most scenic train rides in PA.
The Best Fall Train Rides in PA
1. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
Jim Thorpe
Experience a journey through the colorful, scenic hills of the Lehigh Gorge State Park on a vintage coach built as early as 1917 on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. This narrated 70-minute, 16-mile round-trip ride follows the majestic Lehigh River over bridges, through Glen Onoko, and into the Lehigh Gorge State Park. During the fall season, enjoy a 45-minute fall train ride, offering beautiful scenery on the railway’s Autumn Leaf Train excursions. Choose from different riding experiences, including the Open Air Cars available through Nov. 10. and the Vista-Class Dome Car available through Sept. 22.
2. Colebrookdale Railroad
Boyertown
Hop aboard the Colebrookdale Railroad for a journey through the vibrant colors of fall in Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. For some of the most stunning autumn foliage in the state, take the two-hour, round-trip journey of the Autumn Splendor Fall Foliage ride every Sunday from Sept. 22 through Nov. 24. To make your ride even more memorable, reserve a spot on select excursions featuring a murder mystery dinner, apple cider & donuts, a Secret Valley Cigar run, or a late afternoon wine tasting!
3. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad
Titusville
Take a relaxing three-hour round-trip journey on the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad fall foliage train ride, running Wednesdays through Sundays Oct. 2-18. As you travel through the heart of the Oil Heritage Region, take in breathtaking displays of autumn colors in Oil Creek State Park. Tickets sell out quickly, so be sure to reserve yours today!
4. Northern Central Railway of York
New Freedom
Experience the beauty of fall in southern York County aboard the Northern Central Railway of York, a mainline in operation since 1838. On select dates in October and November, ride to Glen Rock (1 hour) or Hanover Junction (2 1/2 hours) on a diesel- or steam-powered engine – your choice! Along the way, your conductor and brakeman will share fascinating stories about the history and development of the towns and villages you pass through.
5. Rockhill Trolley Museum
Rockhill Furnace
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of fall and capture stunning photos of historic trolleys on Oct. 5 at the Rockhill Trolley Museum for its biggest event of the year, the Fall Spectacular. Enjoy a full day of rides on their fully operational fleet of cars, including the crowd-favorite Liberty Liner!
6. New Hope Railroad
New Hope
There's no better way to experience the best fall foliage in the nation other than a historic rail car. With Bucks County recently named as the #1 fall foliage destination in 2024 by Priceline, the New Hope Railroad offers an unforgettable two-hour autumn adventure as you journey through the countryside of Philadelphia.
7. Strasburg Rail Road
Ronks
Embrace the season on the oldest continuously operating railroad in the nation when you board Strasburg Rail Road. Find fall all around as you ride through Lancaster County and participate in their fall-themed events from Pumpkins in Paradise to Haunted Rails and Tales.
7. Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad
Reading
Celebrate 40 years of fall excursions aboard the Reading Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad. Choose from one of three starting stations - Reading, Pittston, or Pottsville - and journey to the fall foliage-filled Jim Thorpe for a day or weekend getaway.
9. West Chester Railroad
West Chester
While in West Chester this season, be sure to book your seat on West Chester Railroad's Fall Foliage Express to experience all of the fall splendor Chester and Delaware County have to offer. Enjoy a fall train ride along the scenic Chester Creek Valley from the comfort of a heated, historic car.
For even more fall activities in Pennsylvania, check out visitpa.com. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X, Pinterest, Threads, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay up-to-date on even more great trip ideas and places to visit around the state. Don’t forget to never miss an update and sign up for our monthly PA travel e-newsletter.