For those who love the outdoors, this might be the best season of all! The trees are on fire with the colors of changing leaves and the air is crisp enough to enjoy a hike through the forest without getting sweaty. While much of the northeast is experiencing an incredible fall, we think that Maine’s colors have been the most impressive. This is simply the way leaves should be! As you think about the best ways to enjoy the most beautiful season, you might want to consider this scenic train ride in Maine. It’s short, easy to do, and takes you through some of the best scenery you’ll find in the state.
The Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad hosts fun train rides throughout the warmer months of May through October. One of our favorites is the annual scenic rides through Maine’s mid-coast autumn foliage.
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad / Facebook
The trip takes passengers from the train station in Belfast through the changing landscape of the area.
heatherspictures / Flickr
The trains, two vintages GE 70 ton diesel-electric locomotives, make the trip both beautiful and historic. The #50 train has been in constant working operation since 1946 as part of the Belfast and Moosehead Line.
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad / Facebook
Your trip might also take place on the #53, which was purchased by the Belfast and Moosehead Line a bit later having previously been a part of the Montpelier and Barre Railroad in 1970.
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad / Facebook
The trains travel through forest with the perfect view of thick fall foliage…
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad / Facebook
…to the awe-inspiring yellows, oranges, and reds that can be seen across the lake that this region is best known for.
bull_rhino / Flickr
For those looking to have a more immersive experience, make sure to ride on the open-air car that brings with it the crisp, leafy smell that can only be found during fall in Maine. There’s something about that crisp, cool air that just feels better in Maine.
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad / Facebook
The special fall foliage trips depart on October 20th and October 21st at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., lasting for about one hour.
jimdollar / Flickr While some attractions only warrant a one-time visit, this train ride can be done multiple times throughout the season because the leaves are constantly changing. Thanks to nature, you’ll never see the same view twice!
Right now, your trip might be full of rich reds and the brightest orange. But, next weekend you might see yellow for miles.
lagasa / Flickr
The journey is a great way to get some peace and quiet if you’d like to go alone. But, we love the idea of taking a friend who can share in the experience.
athrasher / Flickr The Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad is made possible by the entirely volunteer-run, Brooks Preservation Society. Each fall foliage trip helps fund preservation and restoration projects, ensuring that these trains will be around for a very long time.
The train departs from City Point Station in Belfast at 13 Oak Hill Rd. The cost is $15 for adults and $5 for children aged 3-12. Children under 3 who do not take up a seat are free. Members of the Brooks Preservation Society can also ride for free.
For more seasonal fun on the railroad, consider taking a trip to a pumpkin patch on the Pumpkin Express. Get tickets and reserve a space on their website here. They’ve had a few problems with equipment, so be sure to follow them on Facebook to keep up on the latest schedule.
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad / Facebook
heatherspictures / Flickr
bull_rhino / Flickr
jimdollar / Flickr
While some attractions only warrant a one-time visit, this train ride can be done multiple times throughout the season because the leaves are constantly changing. Thanks to nature, you’ll never see the same view twice!
lagasa / Flickr
athrasher / Flickr
The Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad is made possible by the entirely volunteer-run, Brooks Preservation Society. Each fall foliage trip helps fund preservation and restoration projects, ensuring that these trains will be around for a very long time.
The train departs from City Point Station in Belfast at 13 Oak Hill Rd. The cost is $15 for adults and $5 for children aged 3-12. Children under 3 who do not take up a seat are free. Members of the Brooks Preservation Society can also ride for free.
To truly support The Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad, you can become a member for an annual fee of just $20. To do so, click here.
Here are 6 more incredibly scenic train rides you can take in Maine!
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