Top 5: Scenic Train Trips for Fall

What better way to go leaf peeping than via train? Check out these five rail journeys you can enjoy this fall season.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers fall foliage train rides within the national park by the same name. The absolutely beautiful region stretches through both Tennessee and North Carolina, but the latter is where you’ll find this attraction. Plus, don’t miss out on the Halloween masquerade ride that takes place closer to the holiday.

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

In Ohio, this entirely volunteer-run organization takes travelers on a vintage train ride, with cars from the 1920s, all the way up to the 70s. There are two trains running on the weekends, with fall foliage train rides available this month only.

VIA Rail Sudbury-White River Train

For a longer experience, maybe book the Superior Fall Colors of Ontario Experience, brought to you by the VIA Rail Sudbury-White River Train. The trips are offered through December, though the best time to go is this month. Plus, the trip, which comes to about $900 per person, includes cultural experiences such as regional tours, and the cost includes all your hotel stays, meals and transfers.

Green Mountain Railroad

Still want something luxurious, but not quite so long? Try the Green Mountain Railroad, and the scenic rides, which last only a few hours and also offer a four-course fine-dining experience. The train additionally makes stops at the Okemo Mountain Resort, where you can hop off, stay as long as you like, and then take the train back into Chester, Vt., whenever you’re ready.

Mountain Washington Cog Railway

For spectacular views, take a ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway, a historic railway nearly 150 years old. It climbs to the highest peak in the Northeast, the 6,288-foot Mount Washington.