Discover the scenic M-3 Rides with East Broad Top in Rockhill, PA, a private outdoor journey blending history and nature. Enjoy a unique vintage train adventure through Pennsylvania’s beautiful landscapes.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness required; suitable for nearly all ages and ability levels.
Wildlife
History
East Broad Top Railroad is one of America’s last coal-powered narrow-gauge railroads, operating since 1873.
Conservation
The preservation efforts by East Broad Top help maintain the railroad and local environment with minimal ecological impact.
East Broad Top
Discover the scenic M-3 Rides with East Broad Top in Rockhill, PA, a private outdoor journey blending history and nature. Enjoy a unique vintage train adventure through Pennsylvania’s beautiful landscapes.
East Broad Top is a fully restored narrow-gauge railroad based in Rockhill, Pennsylvania, preserving one of the nation's most complete 3-foot gauge rail systems. The railroad operates historic steam locomotives, gasoline-electric motorcars, and vintage equipment to offer public excursions, special events, and behind-the-scenes tours. Guests can choose from scenic steam train rides, trolley rides in partnership with the Rockhill Trolley Museum, seasonal celebrations, and exclusive guided tours led by skilled staff.
Historic attractions include one-hour steam train excursions, the M-3 and M-1 gasoline motorcar journeys, and specialty experiences such as the Master Mechanic's Tour and Archivist's Tour. The Master Mechanic's Tour grants visitors access to the roundhouse and rare narrow-gauge steam locomotives, while the Archivist's Tour offers a view of preserved documents and artifacts at Orbisonia Station. The property also hosts the Central Pennsylvania Ragtime & American Music Festival and seasonal events like Christmas in Coal Country.
Ticketed options include general admission train and trolley combinations, boxed lunches for pickup, and festival all-access passes. Seating on several motorcar excursions is limited, and many experiences provide insider access to restoration facilities and historic collections. Interpretive staff, preservation-focused programming, and the railroad's tangible archive materials support the site's educational value. East Broad Top's commitment to restoration, public programming, and collaboration with local museums makes it a trusted destination for visitors seeking authentic narrow-gauge railroad history.
Visitors can explore restoration workshops, observe ongoing repairs, and learn from volunteers and staff who maintain the historic equipment and archives through scheduled programs and seasonal demonstrations.
Location
Rockhill, PA
Central Pennsylvania destination
Gauge
3-foot narrow gauge
Historic narrow-gauge railroad
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Scheduled rides and special events
Archival Access
5,000+ linear feet
Extensive railroad records preserved
Book steam train rides, motorcar excursions, trolley combinations, or exclusive tours — seating and specialty tours are limited.
Book in Advance
Reserve your ride ahead of time, as M-3 Rides are private and limited in availability.
Dress for the Weather
Wear layers suitable for spring through fall, since the ride is outdoors and weather can change quickly.
Bring a Camera
Capture the stunning landscapes and historic railcars, but make sure your camera is securely held during the ride.
Arrive Early
Arriving 15 minutes before your ride allows time for check-in and exploring nearby points of interest.
Comfortable walking shoes
Ideal for exploring the boarding areas and nearby sites before and after your ride.
Weather-appropriate layered clothing
Stay comfortable through variable temperatures, especially in cooler spring mornings and evenings.
spring
Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)
Protect yourself from strong sun exposure during open-air segments of the ride.
summer
Camera or smartphone
Capture the scenic views and historic train elements for lasting memories.