When people think of Vermont train rides, fall foliage usually steals the spotlight. And yes, those fiery autumn colors are magical—but here’s the real secret:
Vermont’s scenic rail journeys are worth taking all year round.
Whether it’s the fresh green of spring, long summer days filled with river views, the famous autumn leaves, or snowy winter landscapes, train rides in Vermont give you a front-row seat to the changing seasons.
This guide covers everything you need to know: the best scenic routes, what each season offers, themed train rides, and practical tips to plan your trip.
Table of Contents
Why Take a Scenic Train Ride in Vermont?
Unlike road trips where you’re focused on driving, train rides let you slow down and enjoy the beauty.
- Relaxed sightseeing: No driving stress, just wide windows and endless views.
- Historic railroads: Vintage locomotives and classic cars add old-world charm.
- Hidden corners: Routes pass rivers, covered bridges, and towns you’d likely miss by car.
- All traveler types: Perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers.
Vermont’s Scenic Train Routes You Should Know
- Green Mountain Railroad: Offers classic excursions through Chester, Ludlow, and Bellows Falls with mountain and village views. Most rides last 2–2.5 hours and depart from the historic Chester Depot.
- Vermont Rail System: Hosts fall foliage rides and themed trains across southern Vermont, often 1.5–3 hours long depending on the excursion.
- White River Flyer: Shorter, family-friendly journeys (about 1 hour) with riverside scenery, departing from White River Junction.
- Amtrak Vermonter: A long-distance route connecting Vermont with Massachusetts, Connecticut, and beyond—journeys vary from 2 hours for short hops to full-day travel if you ride end-to-end.
Food & Accessibility: Many trains offer snack bars, dinner service, or allow BYO food.
Most depots, including Chester and Rutland, have wheelchair-accessible boarding areas, but checking with the operator before booking is best.
Vermont Train Rides by Season
Spring (March – May) – Maple Season & Fresh Blooms
Spring is Vermont’s quiet season. The crowds haven’t arrived, trees are budding, and maple festivals are everywhere.
From your train window, you’ll see rolling hills slowly turning green, dotted with blooming wildflowers.
Best Routes: Green Mountain Railroad’s shorter rides through Chester and Ludlow.
Nearby Attractions: Chester’s small antique shops and Ludlow’s maple farms are worth exploring before or after your ride.
Pro Tip: Pair your ride with a stop at a sugarhouse for fresh maple syrup tasting.
Summer (June – August) – Green Mountains at Their Peak
Summer brings Vermont’s landscapes to life. Rivers run full, fields are lush, and towns buzz with outdoor concerts and farmers’ markets.
Many train operators run dinner trains and family excursions in summer, making it a great time for multi-generational trips.
Best Routes: White River Flyer for families, Amtrak Vermonter for longer scenic stretches.
Duration: Summer family excursions usually last 1–2 hours, while dinner trains can run 3 hours.
Nearby Attractions: Walk the historic downtown of White River Junction or spend the night in Ludlow to explore Okemo Mountain.
Insider Tip: Evening dinner trains are a summer highlight—dining while sunset hits the Green Mountains is unforgettable.
Fall (September – October) – The Iconic Foliage Season
This is Vermont’s busiest—and most breathtaking—train season. The hills burst into shades of red, orange, and gold, and trains often sell out weeks in advance.
It’s not just about the leaves; towns along the routes host harvest festivals, craft fairs, and apple cider tastings that make the experience even richer.
Best Routes: Green Mountain Railroad foliage specials, Vermont Rail System excursions.
Departure Towns: Most foliage trains leave from Chester, Bellows Falls, or Rutland, making them easy day trips.
Nearby Attractions: Chester Fall Festival and Ludlow’s cider mills are autumn musts.
Pro Tip: Travel midweek if possible—weekend rides can be packed. Booking early is essential.
Winter (November – February) – Snowy Magic & Holiday Trains
Vermont in winter feels like a holiday postcard, and train rides are no exception. Routes pass snow-draped forests, frozen rivers, and ski towns buzzing with energy.
Special holiday trains like the Polar Express are perfect for families with kids.
Best Routes: Winter excursions near Rutland, Polar Express trains, Amtrak Vermonter for ski-town stops like Ludlow and Killington.
Duration: Most holiday-themed trains are shorter (1–1.5 hours), while longer ski-town connections run 2–3 hours.
Nearby Attractions: Rutland’s winter markets and Ludlow’s ski slopes make great add-ons for overnight trips.
Insider Tip: Bundle your train ride with a ski package—some towns offer ski-and-ride deals that save money.
Themed & Event Train Rides You Can’t Miss
- Fall Foliage Specials: Classic excursions with live narration and unbeatable autumn views.
- Polar Express & Holiday Rides: Festive experiences complete with hot cocoa and Santa visits.
- Dinner & Wine Trains: Gourmet dining paired with scenic summer and fall evenings.
- Heritage Rides: Narrated journeys that highlight Vermont’s history, rail heritage, and culture.
These rides aren’t just travel—they’re experiences that feel part train ride, part event.
Comparison Table: Vermont Train Rides by Season
| Season | Best Routes | Duration | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Green Mountain Railroad | 2 hrs | Maple season, blooming fields | Couples, explorers |
| Summer | White River Flyer, Amtrak | 1–3 hrs | Green landscapes, dinner trains | Families, foodies |
| Fall | Green Mountain Railroad | 2–3 hrs | Peak foliage, harvest festivals | Photographers, tourists |
| Winter | Rutland Holiday Trains | 1–2 hrs | Snowy views, Polar Express rides | Families, skiers |
Practical Travel Tips for Scenic Rail Journeys
- Booking: Fall rides sell out 6–8 weeks in advance, so plan early.
- Costs: Family rides can start at $20, while themed dinner trains go $100+.
- Seating: Always pick a window or dome car seat for the best views.
- Accessibility: Most stations are close to walkable downtowns and many rides are wheelchair-friendly.
- Timing: Late afternoon rides are perfect for golden hour photography.
Insider Tips for Every Season
- Spring: Pair a train ride with Vermont’s Maple Open House Weekend.
- Summer: Stop at farmers’ markets in towns like Ludlow or Chester before boarding.
- Fall: Bring layers—fall days are warm but evenings get chilly on open-window cars.
- Winter: Choose morning trains for the best light on snowy landscapes.
FAQs About Vermont Train Travel
Q: What’s the best time to ride a Vermont scenic train?
Fall is the most famous, but summer and winter rides have unique charm too.
Q: Can kids enjoy these train rides?
Yes—especially the White River Flyer and holiday-themed trains.
Q: How long do rides last?
Excursions range from 1 hour to full-day trips depending on the route.
Q: Do trains run year-round?
Yes, but availability and schedules vary by season.
Conclusion
Vermont’s scenic train rides aren’t just about getting from point A to B—they’re about slowing down, soaking in views, and experiencing the rhythm of the Green Mountains in every season.
Whether it’s spring maple festivals, summer sunsets, fall foliage, or snowy winter rides, Vermont’s trains prove that beauty isn’t tied to just one time of year.
Read More: 4 Best Vermont Train Rides for Fall Foliage 2025
Read More: Budget-Friendly Train Rides in Vermont
Read More: Must-Visit Small Towns on Vermont Train Routes
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