Ride the historic rails on the Hanover Junction Flyer in New Freedom, PA, and enjoy scenic views and rich railroad history aboard The Trail Sisters. Discover a unique blend of adventure and nostalgia on this peaceful countryside train trip.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the ride requires minimal physical exertion.
Wildlife
History
Hanover Junction played a strategic role during the Civil War, serving as a key rail link for troop movement and communication.
Conservation
Northern Central Railway maintains sustainable practices by preserving historical assets and promoting eco-friendly tourism in the region.
Northern Central Railway
Ride the historic rails on the Hanover Junction Flyer in New Freedom, PA, and enjoy scenic views and rich railroad history aboard The Trail Sisters. Discover a unique blend of adventure and nostalgia on this peaceful countryside train trip.
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.
Location
New Freedom, PA
Base of operations on Heritage Rail Trail
Tours Offered
10
Themed and seasonal excursions
Typical Duration
1–2.5 hrs
Short and extended rides available
Historic Equipment
Steam & Diesel
Includes Steam No. 85 and PRR GP9
Reserve seats for seasonal specials and family rides — find dates, trip details, and tickets for memorable heritage train experiences.
Book Tickets Early
Limited seats are available on this private experience, so secure your spot well in advance.
Dress in Layers
Pennsylvania weather can change quickly, especially along the trail, so bring layers to stay comfortable.
Bring a Camera
Capture the scenic views and vintage train moments for lasting memories.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to avoid delays and get settled comfortably.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for getting on and off the train and exploring nearby areas.
Weather-Appropriate Jacket
A light waterproof jacket will keep you dry during spring showers.
spring
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Protect yourself from sun exposure during the bright summer days.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning landscapes and memorable moments along the ride.