Santa Paws Express: Pet-Friendly Heritage Rail Ride on the Northern Central Railroad

Read the full experience

Step aboard the Santa Paws Express, a one-hour, pet-friendly excursion along the historic Northern Central Railroad through New Freedom, Pennsylvania. This short, scenic ride follows the Heritage Rail Trail County Park to Glen Rock, carrying passengers and their dogs across rolling farmland and alongside the South Branch of the Codorus Creek. You’ll pass classic small towns, stone bridges, and tree-lined hedgerows that change character with the seasons. The experience centers on authentic restored coaches—D. Reed Anderson, Abraham Lincoln, New Freedom, and the open-air South Branch car—each detailed with period finishes, reversible seating, and era-appropriate heating via coal stoves. The Abraham Lincoln car ties directly to regional history: President Lincoln traveled these rails to Gettysburg, and less than two years later the Lincoln Funeral Train ran this corridor. The New Freedom Railroad Station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, anchoring the ride in local heritage. Santa Paws Express stands out because it stitches living-history rail travel into everyday outdoor recreation. Families combine a short, accessible rail trip with walking or biking sections of the Heritage Rail Trail, making it a low-impact way to see southern York County. Dogs ride free, receive a treat bag, and can pose for photos with Santa — a rare holiday offering for pet owners who want to include their animals in seasonal outings. Practical notes: check in at the gift shop and arrive 30 minutes before boarding. For extra-large dogs call ahead to reserve space and seating that accommodates both pet and owner. D. Reed Anderson is handicapped accessible and includes two restrooms; the South Branch open-air coach offers the best panoramic views in warm months. Windows operate for airflow in summer and close to retain coal-stove warmth in cooler weather. Guides and volunteers maintain historical authenticity while prioritizing comfort and safety for people and pets alike. Parking is available at the New Freedom station and nearby lots; check seasonal schedules because holiday runs can sell out. Tickets are sold at the gift shop and online via the provided referral link; staff will advise on coach selection. Bring waste bags and current vaccination records—operators may ask for proof to protect other passengers today. Whether you’re after living-history detail, a wintertime coal-stove glow, or a sunlit, open-air car in summer, Santa Paws Express pairs approachable rail heritage with local scenery and seasonal charm. Bring a camera, a leash, and an appetite for offbeat holiday memories.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1 hour.

Fitness level

Minimal physical fitness required; accessible to families and riders of most abilities

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring my dog?

Yes—dogs ride free on Santa Paws Express; they must be leashed, well-behaved, and owners should bring waste bags and vaccination records.

How long is the ride?

The scheduled experience lasts approximately one hour following the Heritage Rail Trail route to Glen Rock and back.

Is the train accessible?

Yes, the D. Reed Anderson coach is handicapped accessible and includes two restrooms; contact staff if you need assistance.

Where do I check in?

Check in at the New Freedom gift shop and ticket desk; arrive at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure.

Can large dogs board?

Extra-large dogs can ride—please call ahead so staff can advise on seating and space to ensure comfort for all passengers.

Are tickets available online?

Tickets are sold at the gift shop and online through the provided referral link; holiday runs may sell out so book early.

Local insights

Wildlife

White-tailed deer
Great blue heron along the creek

History

This corridor carries Civil War-era significance: President Lincoln traveled these rails to Gettysburg and the Lincoln Funeral Train used the same route shortly after his assassination.

Conservation

Riding the train and using adjacent trail sections is a low-impact way to enjoy the landscape; pack out waste and follow trail rules to protect the riparian habitats.

About Northern Central Railway

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.

Base locationNew Freedom, Pennsylvania

Tours offered102+

Adventure tips

Arrive Early to Check InPlan to arrive 30 minutes before departure to check in at the gift shop and board without stress.

Leash and Vaccination ReadyKeep pets leashed and carry proof of current vaccinations—staff may request documentation for safety.

Choose the Right CoachFor panoramic views pick the South Branch open-air car in warm weather; book the D. Reed Anderson for accessibility and indoor seating.

Pack for PhotosBring a camera and a simple holiday prop for pet photos with Santa; avoid flash that may startle animals.

Recommended gear

Leash and Collar: Required for pet safety and to comply with boarding rules.
Waste Bags: Keep the train and stations clean—operators expect owners to pick up after pets.
Camera or Phone: Capture photos of your pet with Santa and the scenic route.
Warm Layer: Coal stoves warm some coaches, but platform breezes can be chilly in colder months.