When it comes to finding a travel destination that is all about the scenery, look no further than Hocking Hills. Our home is the ideal spot for a wonderful outdoor adventure that will take you through some of the awe-inspiring scenery that the state of Ohio has to offer. Hocking Hills offers plenty of places for you to get out and hike around such as Hocking Hills State Park. This expansive area is great for adventures who wish to trek over beautiful terrain up close and in person. Going on a vacation also calls for times when you get to sit back and relax too. You can find the beautiful scenery of the area from the comfort of your chair when you book a ride with the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway. You will be riding on a real train as it travels around the surrounding valleys for an incredible and relaxing experience. Take a look at what you can expect from the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway:
Original Railroad Line Maintaining History
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway has a rich history here in the area, originating back in 1864, when the original railroad line was founded as the Mineral Rail Road. Over generations, the railroad line changed and merged into what it is today. Now, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is completely managed by volunteers who look to maintain the rich history of the railroad line here in Hocking Valley. A single train is used to provide patrons a variety of train rides, each more entertaining than the last. The train itself consists of historic equipment from 1917 to 1960, providing you with a real-life train experience. Traditional enclosed coaches are provided, two of them offering air conditioning. Three open-air cars are also provided that are perfect for the warmer summer months, and they even offer wheelchair access. The route taken by the train is part of a 145-year-old railway route that connected Southern Ohio with Lake Erie and Columbus. During your voyage, the train will take you by Hocking Canal, where you can get a glimpse of the remains of Nelsonville Brick Company. You will also be able to take in the beautiful views of the forest and adjacent state parks. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for all of the amazing sights seen along the way!
Elegant Dinner Train
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway offers various train rides you can schedule throughout the year! The most popular is for those looking to enjoy an elegant meal from a rustic train ride. The Elegant Dinner Train is an evening of fine dining as you travel throughout Hocking Hills. This is a three-hour train ride with a round trip from Nelsonville to East Logan and back again. Hocking Valley Scenic Railway has Chef Alfonso Contrisciani on hand to prepare guests a four-course dinner that is served during the train ride. You will not find a more elegant evening in the area! Advanced reservations are required for the Elegant Dinner Train ride and should be placed weeks in advance due to its popularity.
Holiday Theme Rides
The holidays are always an important part of celebrating here in Hocking Hills, and the same goes for Hocking Valley Scenic Railway. You will find a variety of holiday theme rides throughout the year to help you celebrate with. Easter offers two different train rides to choose from. The Easter Bunny Train & Egg Hunt provides a scenic train ride that will provide you the chance with a stop to hunt Easter eggs with the kids. The Easter Sunday Dinner Train is for those who prefer to celebrate with a fine dining meal in the evening. Memorial Day Train takes you to the town of Haydenville as you see historical sights on the way. Don’t miss out on these upcoming holiday events in Hocking Hills!
Daily Train Rides
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway also offers train rides that occur daily with some unique and exciting options to choose from. Ohio’s Friendliest Train Robbery has the train experiencing a “train robbery” with bandits during your voyage. This fun and interactive ride is perfect for all ages. The Fall Foliage Train Ride is perfect for those visiting in the fall and wish to go leaf-peeping. Guests will see the beautiful hue of reds, yellows, and oranges in the leaves as they begin to change color. Don’t miss out on these exciting daily train rides available only in the area!
Get Ready for the Hocking Valley Railroad
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is just one of many ways to spend your time with us here in Hocking Hills. Make sure to book a stay with one of our vacation lodges or cabins for an incredible experience like no other.