Scenic Train Ride Through Pennsylvania's Rolling Hills

A Journey Through Time on the East Broad Top Railroad

The modern high-speed trains that connect cities today are impressive in their speed and efficiency, but they lack the nostalgic charm of the steam-powered locomotives that once dominated the American landscape. The rhythmic chugging of steam engines and the billowing clouds of smoke have become memories of a bygone era. However, there is still a place where these historic machines come to life: the East Broad Top Railroad in Pennsylvania.

Nestled among the forested slopes of the Pennsylvania countryside, this narrow-gauge railroad offers passengers a glimpse into 19th-century life. Located about three hours west of Philadelphia, the small town of Rockhill Furnace serves as the gateway to this historical treasure. As you approach the East Broad Top Railroad station, the familiar sound of a steam engine whistling and chuffing fills the air, signaling the start of an unforgettable journey.

A National Historic Landmark

Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the East Broad Top Railroad is one of the few remaining narrow-gauge railroads in America that remains intact and operational. Originally constructed in the 1870s, it once transported pig iron, coal, lumber, and passengers between mining towns. Over time, it merged with the Pennsylvania Railroad, but its story didn’t end there. In the 1950s, as revenues declined and coal mines closed, the railroad found new life as a tourist attraction.

Today, visitors can embark on a scenic train ride through the Pennsylvania hills, experiencing the same routes that travelers enjoyed over a century ago. Adult tickets for the round-trip journey start at around $26 and include a guided tour of the station roundhouse and historic machine shop. This unique opportunity allows guests to step back in time and witness the engineering marvels of the past.

Planning Your Trip

Booking your train tickets in advance through the East Broad Top Railroad’s official website is highly recommended. Trains depart regularly from Rockhill Furnace throughout the day, with time in between for guided tours of the historic roundhouse. Most trips allow passengers to disembark for photos at Colgate Grove, a peaceful woodland clearing along the track’s halfway point. You can take your time here for a leisurely picnic, much like the passengers of the late 1800s who once stopped for a meal amidst the trees.

Choosing Your Carriage Class

One of the highlights of the experience is selecting your carriage class. Standard coaches and the caboose car offer padded seating with a nostalgic 19th-century flair, while the roofless cinder car provides a unique perspective, placing passengers directly next to the locomotive engine. Caboose tickets are slightly pricier, costing around $30 per adult and $20 for children, while all other classes are $26 per adult and $16 for children (at the time of writing).

Seasonal Excursions

The East Broad Top Railroad offers more than just a scenic ride; it also hosts seasonal excursions throughout the year. In October, the Pumpkin Patch Express takes passengers on a hayride adventure with pumpkin picking opportunities. During the holiday season, the Christmas in Coal Country train ride brings festive cheer, with coal stoves and hot chocolate keeping passengers warm. For a magical winter experience, the Pocono Winter Wonderland Express offers a round-trip journey filled with snow globe vibes.

Other historic railroads across the country also provide similar experiences. In Connecticut, the Essex Steam Train travels through the heart of the river valley, while in Colorado, the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a timeless journey into mountain beauty.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique travel experience, the East Broad Top Railroad is a must-visit destination. It's a rare chance to step back in time and appreciate the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the past. With its blend of scenic beauty, historical significance, and family-friendly activities, this railroad continues to captivate visitors from all walks of life.