Leaf peepers in Northeast Ohio can leave the car keys at home this fall and watch the color change from a vintage rail car. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the only U.S. national park with a heritage railroad running through it, according to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The region typically sees peak color around the third week of October.
In Wilmington, Del., the Wilmington & Western Railroad runs autumn rides through the Red Clay Valley behind a coal-burning steam locomotive or an early-generation diesel. Once the leaves are down, both railroads switch to holiday rides, with Santa taking over the schedule.
Steam and Diesel Rides Through Delaware's Red Clay Valley
The Wilmington & Western began in 1867 as a freight and passenger line, according to the railroad. More than 150 years later, its vintage cars still follow the Red Clay Valley, now carrying sightseers instead of regular passengers.
"The Wilmington & Western Railroad winds through the historic Red Clay Valley, past rugged rock cuts and tree-lined stretches that have framed the railroad for generations. In autumn, the route becomes especially striking as the valley is transformed by brilliant fall color," says Diana North, a ticketing volunteer with the railroad.
The Autumn Leaf Ramble takes about 90 to 100 minutes in the fall. Riders can also rent the caboose or a parlor car for a more private outing.
When the holiday season arrives, the railroad adds two seasonal rides. The Santa Claus Express and Holiday Lights Express keep the trains running into December.
A Steam Car Detour in Yorklyn
Train fans visiting the region can make a detour to the Marshall Steam Museum in Yorklyn, Del., inside Auburn Valley State Park. The museum features the world's largest collection of operating Stanley steam cars, along with a 1914 Ford Model T, a 1916 electric car and two 1930s Packards.
Trains have a place here, too. The 1/8-scale Auburn Valley Railroad and an operating Lionel model train display are part of the attraction. Special events and holiday rides are also offered.
Fall Foliage by Rail in Cuyahoga Valley
The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad runs historic train rides through Cuyahoga Valley National Park, following the Cuyahoga River as the valley changes color. The railroad's vintage California Zephyr dome rail cars are also used for special excursions and dining events.
Lynee Bixler, director of marketing and communications for the railroad, points to another advantage of taking the train during leaf season.
"Fall is the perfect time to visit Northeast Ohio because of the beautiful foliage and breathtaking outdoor scenery. With fuel prices on the rise, a train ride is among the best ways to take in the changing colors of the season while also being among the most affordable," Bixler says.
“Travelers also don't have to worry about parking or traffic while taking in the fall scenery”, Bixler adds. The railroad has seen interest in fall train rides continue to rise over the past several years.
The Fall or National Park Scenic excursion makes a 24-mile round trip through the park and lasts about 3 hours, 40 minutes, according to the railroad. A shorter, two-hour nonstop express ride is designed with families in mind.
The fall schedule also includes the Super Royal Halloween train, which brings costume parties on board.
North Pole Adventure Rides
After fall foliage season, CVSR turns its attention to the holidays with the North Pole Adventure. The 90-minute ride features decorated train cars, cookies and snacks, with the possibility of a visit from Santa Claus.
Schedules and tickets for the Wilmington & Western Railroad and Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad are available through their respective websites.