Adventure Collective
Experience the Historic Charm of Hanover Junction Aboard the Trail Sisters in Spring - New Freedom

Experience the Historic Charm of Hanover Junction Aboard the Trail Sisters in Spring

New Freedomeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity involves sitting with occasional walking at stations.

Overview

Step aboard the Trail Sisters and explore Hanover Junction’s historic rail line this spring. Experience scenic Pennsylvania landscapes while uncovering railroad history in a relaxed, family-friendly ride.

Carmel, Indiana

Hanover Junction Spring Special Aboard the Trail Sisters

All Ages • 2.5 Hours • Historical Landmark • Lunch Included! • Mid-Century Pullman Style Coach Cars•

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About This Adventure

Experience a captivating journey along the historic Heritage Rail Trail, retracing President Lincoln's route to Gettysburg. Enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour excursion, complete with a 20-minute stop at the Hanover Junction Museum and a complimentary boxed lunch. Travel in vintage rail cars, immersing yourself in the charm of the 1860s.

A National Historical Landmark!

Duration

2 Hours 30 Minutes

About

Celebrate Spring with NCR! Outside your window is the beautiful Heritage Rail Trail County Park and southern York County countryside on this trip to Hanover Junction. This excursion will take you back to the 1860s when President Abraham Lincoln rode these tracks on his way to Gettysburg to deliver the Gettysburg Address. The excursion includes a 20-minute stopover at the Hanover Junction Museum.

**All tickets include a choice of a complimentary boxed lunch with bottled water, homemade chips, and a cookie.

  • Chicken Salad Sandwich
  • Ham & American Cheese Sandwich
  • Powerhouse Veggie Sandwich
  • Garden Salad

Please note: boxed lunches must be ordered in advance.

*Beverage service is available on this excursion including wine, beer, mixed drinks, and soft drinks.

Membership Holders: Please call 717 942 2370 or email Info@northerncentralrailway.com to book your discounted tickets.

Please Note

  • Please visit our Gift Shop to check in and receive your boarding passes.
  • Please arrive 30 minutes prior to boarding.
  • Wheelchair lift is not available at Hanover Junction. Passengers who wish to exit the train must be able to climb up and down 6 steps without crew assistance.

Coach Accommodation Options

Overland Trail Lounge Car

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The Overland Trail was built by the Pullman Standard Car Manufacturing Company in 1949. The 39-seat club-lounge car was originally owned by Southern Pacific Railroad and then Amtrak. It features a Streamline Moderne design, a quarter-circle bar, and a barbershop. The Overland Trail has been in the care of Bill Hatrick since 1987.

Pacific Trail Passenger Car

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The Pacific Trail was built by the Pullman Standard Car Manufacturing Company. It was delivered to Union Pacific Railroad in 1950 and was eventually sold to Amtrak. The 44-seat chair car was used for second-class travel and features plenty of legroom and restrooms. The Pacific Trail was purchased by Bill Hatrick in 1983.

Both passenger cars are enclosed and fully air-conditioned.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Spring Dates

Spring trips fill quickly—reserve your seat in advance to secure your preferred date and time.

Dress in Layers

Even in spring, temperatures can vary; bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the ride.

Arrive Early for Interpretive Tours

Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to enjoy pre-ride historical presentations and boarding.

Bring Your Camera

Capture the lush spring blooms and vintage train details for memorable photos during the ride.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Eastern towhee (songbird)

History

Hanover Junction was a key communication point during the Civil War and played a role in Lincoln's Gettysburg Address journey.

Conservation

The operator supports local conservation efforts by minimizing environmental impact and promoting responsible tourism along the railway corridor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Light Jacket

Essential

Helps keep warm during cool spring mornings or breezy train rides.

spring specific

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Ideal for exploring the station area and surrounding trails before or after the ride.

spring specific

Binoculars

Useful for spotting local wildlife and scenic details along the route.

spring specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated during your outdoor adventure aboard the train.

spring specific