Adventure Collective
Historic Train Ride & Fall Colors with Northern Central Railway in Pennsylvania - Baltimore

Historic Train Ride & Fall Colors with Northern Central Railway in Pennsylvania

New Freedomeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most ages and fitness levels; minimal physical effort required

Overview

Ride through Pennsylvania’s scenic fall landscape aboard Northern Central Railway’s vintage train. Discover history at Hanover Junction Museum and enjoy a delicious boxed lunch along the way for a truly immersive autumn adventure.

New Freedom, Pennsylvania

Fall Special Hanover Junction Flyer Aboard The Trail Sisters

2.5 Hours • All Ages •Diesel Engine • Mid Century Pullman Style Coach Cars - The Trail Sisters

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Experience a captivating journey on the Fall Special Hanover Junction Flyer, where history comes alive aboard Locomotive 32. Enjoy stunning views of the Heritage Rail Trail, a 20-minute stop at the Hanover Junction Museum, and a delicious boxed lunch. Travel in vintage comfort while reliving President Lincoln's historic ride.

Fall Special Hanover Junction Flyer on the Trail Sisters

Duration

2.5 Hours

About

Outside your window is the beautiful Heritage Rail Trail County Park and southern York County countryside on this trip to Hanover Junction. Locomotive 32 will take you back in time 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 and a box lunch provided by New Freedom Roasting Co. & Deli. Enjoy the Mid Century coach car by visiting both cars during the trip.

All tickets include a choice of a complimentary boxed lunch:

  • Turkey & American Cheese Sandwich
  • Ham & American Cheese 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.

Overland Trail Lounge Car

!Description of image

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

!Description of image

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

Dress in layers

Weather can change quickly along the route, so layering ensures comfort regardless of conditions.

Bring your camera

The fall scenery and historic trains make for photo-worthy moments—don’t miss capturing the view.

Arrive early

Get there ahead of time to settle in, find the best vantage points, and enjoy a relaxed start.

Participate in the museum stop

Take advantage of the 20-minute walk-through at Hanover Junction to dive into local Civil War history.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Eastern Box Turtles

History

Hanover Junction was a key Civil War supply and troop movement hub, making it a significant site for American history buffs.

Conservation

Northern Central Railway emphasizes maintaining the historic rail cars and supporting local preservation efforts, ensuring the region’s past remains alive for future generations.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Baltimore

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm clothing

Essential

Layered clothing helps stay comfortable during cooler travel weather.

fall,winter specific

Camera

Capture the scenic vistas and historic moments along the route.

Hat and sunglasses

Essential

Protection from sun rays during the daylight hours on open train cars.

summer specific

Light snacks and water

Optional for added comfort during the journey or if you plan to linger at the museum stop.