Receive our e-news
and updates.
|
Special Features
Bikes, Barges and Trains (Part 2)
©May 2005 by Peter Lynn
 Return to Bikes, Barges and Trains Return to Special Features
Conway Scenic Railroad : New Hampshire
Area Mountain Bike Trails: White Mountains, New Hampshire
With two trains and three train routes of varying duration, the Conway Scenic Railroad has an excursion for every need. Step onto the vintage coach and journey back to a bygone era. The trains, powered by diesel electric locomotives, take you through amazing scenery in the heart of the White Mountains. All trains depart from the historic North Conway Station.
Enjoy the countryside of Mount Washington Valley aboard the "Valley Train". Options include a shorter 11 mile, 55 minute trip to Conway or the longer 21 mile, 1 3/4 hour trip to Bartlett. Spacious first class seating is available on the restored 106-year old Pullman Parlor Observation Car. The train takes you north through fields and woodland, crossing several rivers. At Bartlett watch the locomotive "run around" for the return trip. Reserve a seat aboard the dining car "Chocorua" for lunch, or dinner on the sunset departures. From July 4th- Labor Day and again from late September-mid October trains to Conway are steam driven.
The "Notch Train" travels through Crawford Notch with its sheer cliffs, steep ravines, cascading streams and mountain views. It crosses the famed Frankenstein Trestle and Willey Brook Bridge. Live commentary about railroad history and local lore is provided. The excursion lasts 5 hours with options for coach, first class or dome cars. There is an onboard snack bar. The "Notch Train" runs from late June through late October. Join the celebration of Railfan Weekend, October 15-16, at the North Conway Station. There will be exhibits, activities, photo run-bys and special steam powered train excursions.
The rail line was completed in 1874, replacing stagecoaches as the preferred means of travel. Construction of the North Conway Station by the Portsmouth, Great Falls and Conway Railroad soon followed. Except for the replacement of the waiting room by a gift shop, it has changed little since then. Passenger service ended in 1961 and freight service in 1972. The Conway Scenic Railroad restored the magnificent structure and re-opened it in 1974 for seasonal train excursions. This year, 2005, marks 130 years of service.
Because there are so many options available check the website or call for schedule, fares and reservation information (especially during fall foliage season).
Contact information:
Conway Scenic Railroad
Rt. 16
North Conway, NH 03860
Phone: 603-356-5251 or
800-232-5251
Website: www.conwayscenic.com
|
