Ride the historic rails of southeastern Ohio with Hocking Valley Scenic Railway’s themed trains. From vibrant fall colors to festive holiday events, each journey reveals history and nature in equal measure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–4 hours depending on the trip
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
The railway operates vintage passenger cars from the early 20th century, preserving a key piece of Ohio’s industrial transportation heritage.
Conservation
As a non-profit, the railway relies on community support and volunteers who help maintain historic equipment while promoting environmental stewardship of the surrounding landscape.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
Ride the historic rails of southeastern Ohio with Hocking Valley Scenic Railway’s themed trains. From vibrant fall colors to festive holiday events, each journey reveals history and nature in equal measure.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway operates from Nelsonville, Ohio, offering seasonal and themed rail excursions through the Hocking River Valley. The railway runs scenic journeys including October Fall Foliage Trains — a 22-mile ride with heated coaches and open-air cars — and seasonal specialty trips such as the Pre-Season Steam Train on May 20th and 21st aboard restored coaches.
Other featured experiences include the Elegant Dinner Train and January Elegant Dinner Train 2025, both offering a scenic three-hour journey with gourmet full-course meals prepared by Chef Alfonso Contrisciani. The Murder Mystery Dinner Train pairs that same dining experience with an interactive whodunit titled "A Scrap of Lace." Family-focused events include the Easter Bunny Train & Egg Hunt, the Trunk-or-Treat Halloween Train departing from the historic Nelsonville Depot, and Ohio's Friendliest Train Robbery — a two-hour family adventure with playful bandits collecting play money.
Holiday offerings include the Santa Train, a cherished family tradition for over 40 years with decorated coaches and visits from Santa, and the New Years Eve Train & Fireworks, a festive 22-mile trip featuring family-friendly or wine-and-cheese options and a midnight fireworks display.
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway emphasizes authentic vintage equipment, restored coaches, and specialty rolling stock such as Ohio's only operating standard-gauge steam locomotive. Reservations are recommended for popular events and required for select trains. The railway presents accessible, family-oriented excursions and curated dining experiences that showcase the scenic backcountry of southeast Ohio. Advance booking is advised for popular trains and special-event dining; book early online.
Location
Nelsonville, OH
Hocking River Valley departures.
Trips Offered
11 Trips
Seasonal and themed experiences.
Steam Dates
May 20–21
Pre-Season steam excursions in May.
Holiday Tradition
40+ Years
Over forty years of holiday rides.
Book fall foliage trains, dinner trains, steam excursions, and holiday rides early—reservations recommended or required for many trips.
Arrive Early for Best Seating
Trains fill quickly, especially open-air cars, so plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before departure to choose your preferred seat.
Bring Layers for Open Cars
Weather can be unpredictable; open-air train cars are exposed to wind and temperature changes, so dress accordingly.
Book Special Events in Advance
Popular themed rides, such as the Murder Mystery Dinner Train and holiday specials, often sell out—advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Consider Accessibility Needs
Some vintage cars may have limited accessibility; inquire about accommodations when booking if mobility is a concern.
Layered Clothing
Prepare for temperature swings onboard open and enclosed cars.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture scenic views and historic railway moments.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated on warmer rides, especially in open cars.
summer
Binoculars
Enhance your observation of wildlife and distant landscapes during colorful foliage trips.
fall