Historic Train Journeys with Everett Railroad in Hollidaysburg - Altoona

Historic Train Journeys with Everett Railroad in Hollidaysburg

Altoonaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and physical conditions.

Overview

Discover authentic railroad excursions in Hollidaysburg, PA, with Everett Railroad’s seasonal train rides. From festive holiday specials to scenic fall adventures, these trips offer a distinctive outdoor experience steeped in local history and natural beauty.

Details

Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, serves as the gateway to a captivating rail experience offered by Everett Railroad—an essential fixture for adventure seekers drawn to unique outdoor excursions. Situated near the majestic Allegheny Mountains and winding along the gently rolling landscapes of the Morrison's Cove region, Everett Railroad provides a rare glimpse into the area’s rich transportation heritage through a variety of themed train rides. Each trip engages passengers with the charm of vintage rail travel, threaded through scenic rural vistas and seasonal attractions.

The railroad’s fleet ferries riders on several distinctive journeys, from festive Santa Express trips packed with holiday cheer to the seasonal Pumpkin Patch Train. These rides transform the outdoors into an interactive experience, blending crisp air and natural splendor with carefully crafted entertainment for all ages. Meanwhile, the Autumn Adventure captures the vivid fall foliage of Pennsylvania’s mixed hardwood forests, an opportunity to witness the landscape painted in fiery reds and golds while seated in comfort aboard a historic steam or diesel locomotive.

Families and groups can indulge in Lunch on the Line, which marries a leisurely slow ride with good food, or partake in the Ice Cream Special and Picnic at the Spring, offering casual refreshment stops alongside the route. The Sproul Special and Steam into the Cove journeys add an element of nostalgia, harnessing the power and sound of classic steam engines through rural scenery deeply rooted in American railroading tradition.

What makes Everett Railroad a standout is its commitment to preserving the legacy of rail travel while connecting visitors with the local environment and community stories. Trains depart from Hollidaysburg and Roaring Spring depots, serving as portals to both adventure and education in a region where outdoor activity often means blending history with nature. Whether it’s a holiday ride or an agricultural parade procession, these rail experiences invite travelers to slow down, absorb the landscape, and witness the seasonal pulse of Pennsylvania’s Allegheny foothills from a timeless vantage.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Holiday Rides

Santa Express and Pumpkin Patch Train trips sell out quickly—reserve your seat weeks in advance to secure a spot.

Arrive 30 Minutes Before Departure

Stations can be busy; arriving early ensures a smooth boarding process and time to check out the depots.

Dress for Variable Weather

Carriage cars can be open or enclosed; layers help you stay comfortable throughout changing seasonal conditions.

Bring a Camera

Scenic views and historic engines present excellent photo opportunities—don’t miss capturing the moment.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Roaring Spring Depot architecture, an early 20th-century train station with unique craftsmanship
  • Quiet nature trails near Morrison's Cove offering peaceful walks before or after your ride

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Eastern wild turkeys

History

Everett Railroad preserves a vital piece of central Pennsylvania’s industrial heritage dating back to the 1800s rail expansion era.

Conservation

The railroad operates with respect for local ecosystems, minimizing emissions through restoration and maintenance practices that balance heritage with sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Overcast afternoons
Early morning light

Best Viewpoints

  • Alongside the Hollidaysburg Depot platform
  • Near the scenic streams running parallel to the tracks
  • The elevated views from Morrison’s Cove hills

What to Photograph

Historic steam and diesel locomotives
Fall foliage framing train cars
Community events during seasonal rides

Recommended Gear

Layered Clothing

Essential

Adjustable layers keep you comfortable as temperatures fluctuate during outdoor train rides.

fall specific

Camera or Smartphone

Essential

Capture the vintage trains, changing landscapes, and festive decorations along the route.

Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during warm-weather trips, especially when partaking in picnic or ice cream specials.

summer specific

Rain Jacket

Lightweight protection against spring showers keeps you dry and comfortable throughout the ride.

spring specific