THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover a unique cycling experience with the Bike Aboard tour from New Freedom to Brillhart. Ride along scenic trails and enjoy vintage railway charm on this private adventure in Pennsylvania.
Discover a unique cycling experience with the Bike Aboard tour from New Freedom to Brillhart. Ride along scenic trails and enjoy vintage railway charm on this private adventure in Pennsylvania.
Book with Northern Central Railway
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Northern Central Railway · New Freedom, Pennsylvania
Experience a unique blend of cycling and scenic railway travel with the Bike Aboard tour from New Freedom to Brillhart in Pennsylvania. Offered by Northern Central Railway, this private outdoor adventure allows you to load your bike aboard a vintage rail car and enjoy a relaxed ride along picturesque landscapes. The journey takes you through peaceful countryside, charming small towns, and alongside historic rail tracks, offering a refreshing way to explore the region. Whether you're a casual rider or an avid cyclist, the route offers gentle terrain perfectly suited for all skill levels. Along the way, you’ll witness beautiful views of rolling hills, verdant forests, and historic landmarks. This combination of bike and rail travel creates a dynamic experience — you get to pedal stretches of trail while resting on the comfortable train for others, ensuring you can cover more ground with less fatigue. Local guides from Northern Central Railway provide attentive service, helping with bike loading and sharing insights about the area’s history and natural environment. Ideal for families, groups, or solo travelers, this adventure offers a fresh approach to exploring Pennsylvania’s countryside, blending outdoor activity with a nostalgic railway journey.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels including beginners, as the ride involves gentle terrain and train support.
Yes, you can bring your own bike, but it must fit in the provided bike racks on the railcar.
Helmets are required, and while you can bring your own, the company also offers helmets for rent.
Yes, this trip is family-friendly and suitable for children who can ride a bike safely.
In case of severe weather, Northern Central Railway may reschedule or cancel the trip for safety.
Restrooms are available at the train stations but not on the trail segments.
The biking portion covers approximately 8 miles of mostly flat terrain from New Freedom to Brillhart.
The Northern Central Railway corridor was a key transport route established in the 19th century, playing an important role in regional development.
Efforts are in place to preserve the rail corridor as a natural habitat and recreational trail, minimizing environmental impact through sustainable tourism.
Northern Central Railway, based in New Freedom, Pennsylvania, operates heritage train excursions on the original Northern Central Railroad corridor. The railway offers a variety of themed rides aboard restored vintage coaches and locomotives, including steam locomotive No. 85 and historic PRR GP9 diesel power. Trips range from short family excursions to multi-hour historic journeys, with highlights such as the Wild West Express reenactment of Jesse James–era robberies, the Hanover Junction Specials retracing President Lincoln's route to Gettysburg with a stop at the Hanover Junction Museum, seasonal outings like the Pumpkin Patch Express and Oktoberfest Ales on the Rails, and family favorites including the Sundaes on Sunday Express and Pirates and Pixies Adventure Express. Many excursions include on-board narration, scenic travel along the Heritage Rail Trail, and curated stops at historic sites. The railroad emphasizes preservation of railroad heritage through restored equipment and educational experiences that connect communities across southern York County. Vehicles and onboard experiences are maintained by experienced volunteers and staff who follow safety and conservation practices. Tickets, schedules, and trip details are published for each event, and proceeds support continued preservation and operation of historic rail equipment. Northern Central Railway partners with local organizations and museums to provide authentic historical context on select excursions. For visitors, the railway provides accessible parking in New Freedom, clear trip descriptions, and family-friendly amenities, making it a reliable choice for history enthusiasts, families, and railfans seeking authentic heritage train experiences. Advance reservations are recommended for popular seasonal and special event excursions online.
Book with Northern Central Railway