Scenic Train Adventures with Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

Located in the heart of southeastern Ohio, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway in Nelsonville offers a diverse lineup of vintage train experiences that provide an authentic glimpse into both local history and the surrounding natural landscape. Operating out of a historic depot, the railway invites travelers to step back in time aboard carefully maintained passenger cars dating as far back as 1921. The railway’s broad array of themed rides punctuates the calendar, from the fiery reds and golds of the October Fall Foliage Trains to festive holiday journeys like the Santa Train and New Year’s Eve Train & Fireworks. Each trip delivers unique views of the Hocking Hills region, including the wooded hillsides, small villages, and open countryside that define this part of Ohio.

The rides balance leisurely comfort with engaging storytelling. Volunteer guides offer insights into the area’s industrial past, touching on the railway’s own role in regional development and the heritage of local communities. Special events like the Murder Mystery Dinner Train and Ohio’s Friendliest Train Robbery add interactive entertainment, while holiday-themed rides including the Easter Bunny Train and Halloween Train make the experience family-friendly and festive.

Passengers praise the well-preserved steam locomotive pulls, particularly the Hocking Valley Steam Special, which showcases historic engineering amid scenic views. The rail trips range from short excursions to extended celebrations, encouraging visitors to arrive early to secure open-air seating that enhances the sensory connection to the outdoors.

This non-profit railway draws on deep community roots and dedicated volunteers to maintain its equipment and preserve the experience. Its presence enriches southeastern Ohio’s outdoor recreational offerings by blending heritage tourism with seasonal beauty, creating a distinct adventure where natural vistas and living history meet on the rails.