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Special Features
Bikes, Barges and Trains (Part 1)
©April 2005 by Peter Lynn
 Return to Bikes, Barges and Trains Return to Special Features
New Hope Canal Boat Company / New Hope & Ivyland Scenic Railroad : Pennsylvania
Area Mountain Bike Trails: Pennsylvania
New Hope Canal Boat Company
Lunch aboard authentically re-created canal boats drawn by real live mules, on a leisurely 1 1/4 hour ride through historic New Hope and the countryside of Bucks County. On each trip a guide will talk about the canal’s history and lifestyle of the people who worked and lived on the canal. Listen to stories and songs of the canal boat era performed by crew members.
Inspired by the success of the Erie Canal in New York, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania began building a canal system to connect Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Lake Erie. The 60 mile long Delaware Canal is part of this network. Completed in 1832, it ran from Bristol to Easton where it connected to the Lehigh Canal. Anthracite coal from northeastern Pennsylvania, as well as lumber, building stone, lime and agricultural produce were carried to the cities of the east.
Trips run from May 1- October31. Restoration work on the canal and locks could effect the schedule so always call ahead.
Contact information:
149 South Main Street
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-0758
New Hope & Ivyland Scenic Railroad
At New Hope you also have the opportunity to board an historic steam train for an 35 mile excursion through the beautiful countryside of Buck’s County, Pennsylvania. Recapture the turn of the century ambience aboard restored circa-1920s vintage passenger cars and antique bar cars, pulled by authentic steam or diesel locomotives. Highlights include the Rushland Trestle which towers over the Neshaminy Creek. The Victorian New Hope Station, freight house, boarding platform adds to the
Tours reflect changing seasons and special holidays, and include Fall Foliage trains, Easter Bunny Train, Spring Scenery Trains, Father’s Day Weekend Special, Song and Story Hour, Trick or Treat and Halloween Trains and Polar Express.
For a romantic interlude try The Evening Star Dinner Train while enjoying cocktails and dinner in first class comfort or ride The Grapevine Express in beautifully restored, air conditioned Parlor Car and enjoy fine cheeses, crackers and exclusive vintages from local wineries.
Contact information:
32 West Bridge Street
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-2332
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