For 2025, these fall foliage train rides in New York stand out as the best of the best. Whether you’re after a romantic escape, a family adventure, or simply a cozy leaf-peeping experience, these scenic railroads deliver autumn at its finest.
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Adirondack Scenic Railroad (Adirondack Railroad)
The Adirondacks in fall are legendary—and the Adirondack Railroad makes sure you don’t miss a single shade of red, gold, and amber.
Running through dense forests, peaceful lakes, and rolling hills, this ride feels like you’re traveling through a living postcard.
One of the highlights is the “Fall Foliage Train” that departs from Utica, winding into the wilderness where cars can’t go.
Onboard, you’ll find comfortable seating and huge windows, making it perfect for photographers and families alike.
Insider Tip: Book early in September—by October, these trains usually sell out fast!
Extra Detail: This ride often connects with scenic byways, making it easy to combine a train trip with a classic Adirondack road drive.
Catskill Mountain Railroad
If you want the Catskills in their autumn glory, the Catskill Mountain Railroad is a top choice.
This heritage railroad runs vintage coaches through colorful valleys, charming villages, and wooded hillsides that glow during fall.
Families love this ride because it often hosts themed events in October, like pumpkin trains.
The slower pace of the journey lets you relax, sip a hot drink, and snap plenty of leaf-peeping photos without rushing.
Extra Detail: Seasonal fall-themed rides, like Halloween trains, are especially popular here.
Arcade & Attica Railroad
Step back in time with the Arcade & Attica Railroad, one of the few places in New York where you can still ride a real steam engine.
The train rumbles past rural landscapes, rolling farmlands, and small-town backdrops, making it both scenic and historic.
It’s a shorter trip compared to others, which makes it perfect for families with young kids.
The gentle countryside views and the rhythmic sound of the train give off cozy old-time vibes that perfectly match the fall season.
Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad
Baseball isn’t the only reason to visit Cooperstown in autumn. The Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad offers a foliage train ride that’s bursting with small-town charm.
As the train winds through meadows, creeks, and tree-lined routes, the colors of fall put on a spectacular show.
Pair this ride with a day exploring Cooperstown’s museums, local diners, and boutique shops, and you’ve got yourself the perfect fall weekend trip.
Extra Detail: In addition to standard rides, themed trains like pumpkin express rides make fall visits even more fun.
Delaware & Ulster Railroad
The Delaware & Ulster Railroad is often called one of the most beautiful heritage train rides in the Catskills—and autumn takes it to the next level.
The route runs alongside rivers and through mountain valleys, all lit up in shades of orange and red during October.
Because the train moves at a leisurely pace, passengers get ample time to capture stunning photographs.
Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or going solo, this one is all about soaking in the peaceful beauty of the Catskills.
Extra Detail: Typical ride duration is around two hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy without taking up the whole day.
New York & Lake Erie Railroad
Located in Western New York, the New York & Lake Erie Railroad delivers a nostalgic train experience surrounded by countryside charm.
During fall, the ride becomes a moving theater of golden forests, rural farmlands, and vintage rail cars.
It’s not as crowded as some of the bigger railroads, making it a great choice if you want a quieter, less touristy fall foliage experience.
Extra Detail: Ticket prices here are usually more affordable than the larger routes, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Finger Lakes Rail Experience – Cayuga Leaf Limited
Wine lovers and leaf-peepers unite on the Cayuga Leaf Limited.
This seasonal fall ride showcases the Finger Lakes region, which is famous for both its vineyards and autumn scenery.
You can even combine your trip with wine tasting tours nearby, making it one of the most unique fall train adventures in New York.
Pro Tip: Check the peak foliage calendar—Finger Lakes usually peak in mid-to-late October.
Amtrak’s Adirondack Route (New York City to Montreal)
If you want the granddaddy of all fall foliage train rides, Amtrak’s Adirondack route is it.
Stretching from New York City all the way to Montreal, this 10-hour journey is consistently ranked among the most scenic train rides in the world.
The route takes you through the Hudson Valley, past the Adirondack Mountains, and alongside Lake Champlain—each spot bursting with color during autumn.
Extra Detail: The ride includes onboard food service, comfortable seating, and restrooms for long-haul comfort.
Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway
Another gem for 2025 is the Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway, a charming heritage train that runs short but spectacular foliage trips in the Capital Region.
Its vintage coaches and relaxed vibe make it ideal for travelers who want something less crowded but equally colorful.
Medina Railroad Museum – Fall Foliage Rides
In Western New York, the Medina Railroad Museum offers special fall foliage train rides that combine history with scenery.
Passengers not only enjoy the countryside views but can also explore one of the largest railroad museums in the country.
Upper Hudson River Railroad (Seasonal Rides)
After being revived, the Upper Hudson River Railroad now offers seasonal fall foliage excursions that travel along scenic sections of the Hudson River Valley.
Conclusion
New York transforms into a fall paradise every year, but 2025 promises to be extra special with these incredible train rides on the calendar.
From the Adirondacks’ wild beauty to the charm of the Catskills and the vineyards of Finger Lakes, there’s a journey here for every kind of traveler.
Read More: 6 Best Scenic Train Rides in New York for Fall 2025
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