The Conway Scenic Railroad is one of the most beautiful fall foliage rail trips in the United States. Open-air and enclosed vintage coaches take passengers through the scenic Mt. Washington Valley countryside as well as through legendary Crawford Notch. While both rides are sure to please your family, our personal favorite is the "Notch" route, which offers riders views of steep ravines, breathtaking mountain views, and travels across both the Frankenstein Trestle and Willey Brook Bridge.
Three different routes are offered. The first is an 11-mile scenic round trip, which travels south to Conway. If you're looking for a short ride, this 55-minute trip might be the best choice. The second route, a roundtrip excursion to Bartlett, NH, is a 21-mile, 1-hour trip with views of woods, rivers, and the surrounding White Mountains. The third option, the Notch trip, is breathtaking - but probably not a good choice for small children or those who bore easily. The 5-hour trip travels 50 miles roundtrip through Crawford Notch to Crawford Notch Depot.
Passengers board all trains at the restored 1874 train station in North Conway. Trains operate from April through December on various schedules. Reduced children's fares are offered. During peak foliage periods, reservations are strongly recommended - especially for the "Notch" route which offers some of the best fall foliage views.
2004 Rates
Fares on the Valley Train vary according to the route. Adult coach fare range from $10.50 to $17.50; children (4-12) from $7.50 to $12.00; and children 1-3 ride free if they not occupying a seat. First class seat fares are available, as well as lunch and dinner car rates and special fees for seats for children ages 1-3. The Notch Train fares vary according to route, seating (coach, first class and dome) and age of passenger. Special fares and package deals are sometimes available on the railroad's website.
From June 21 through October 17, the daily train runs at 10:30am, 11:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, and 4:30pm. On October 18-24, the trains run daily at 11:30am and 1:30pm. From October 30 until November 21 the trains only run on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30am and 1:30pm. On November 26-28 the trains run again at 11:30am and 1:30pm. On the Saturdays and Sundays between December 4-19 the trains will run at 11:30am and 1:30pm. From June 29 through September 4, 6 pm sunset excursions offered on Tuesday through Saturday evenings. From September 9 through October 16, the 6pm sunset excursions resume. The dining car will accompany these train trips. Make sure to visit the website at: http://www.conwayscenic.com/ to get information on all of the train excursion events throughout the year.
For more information or to make reservations, contact the railroad at: Conway Scenic Railroad or (800) 232-5251 or call the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau at (800) 367-3367.
