Conway Scenic Railroad
Ride a historic train through New Hampshire's scenic White Mountains, especially stunning during fall foliage season.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, see peak foliage
Conway Scenic Railroad
Best Time
Beat the crowds, see peak foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a historic train through New Hampshire's scenic White Mountains, especially stunning during fall foliage season.
"A truly unforgettable experience like stepping back in time while gliding through breathtaking landscapes."
Book Mountaineer for Views
For the best fall foliage, the Mountaineer ride is highly recommended. Sit on the left for optimal scenery.
Check Train Direction
The train may go in a different direction due to track maintenance; confirm the route for the most scenic experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mountaineer Ride
Crawford Notch
A longer, more scenic journey through the White Mountains, offering stunning fall foliage views.
Victorian Train Station
North Conway
Step back in time at this beautifully restored 1874 station, a charming starting point for your journey.
Frankenstein Trestle
Crawford Notch
An iconic, historic railway bridge offering dramatic views, especially during autumn.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fall Foliage
Know Your Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Mountaineer for Views
For the best fall foliage, the Mountaineer ride is highly recommended. Sit on the left for optimal scenery.
Check Train Direction
The train may go in a different direction due to track maintenance; confirm the route for the most scenic experience.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited; allow extra time for traffic, especially during peak season.
Dome Car Glass Clarity
Dome car glass can be dirty, impacting photos. Consider lower cabin seats for similar views.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Mountaineer for Views
For the best fall foliage, the Mountaineer ride is highly recommended. Sit on the left for optimal scenery.
Check Train Direction
The train may go in a different direction due to track maintenance; confirm the route for the most scenic experience.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited; allow extra time for traffic, especially during peak season.
Dome Car Glass Clarity
Dome car glass can be dirty, impacting photos. Consider lower cabin seats for similar views.
Station Exhibits
Explore historical exhibits in the station before or after your ride for added context.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Conway Scenic Railroad for its nostalgic charm, beautiful vintage trains, and friendly staff, especially during the stunning fall foliage season. While some find parts of the ride to be through dense trees, the overall experience is described as relaxing and picturesque, offering a unique step back in time.
"I had higher expectations but it was still a nice relaxing ride. 70% of the time was spent riding through a wall of trees and towns. When you enter the train, for best views sit on left side. Once it did open up, the views were great. Definitely consider a fall ride during peak for the best color."
Ashley Stuart
"Riding the Conway Scenic Railroad was a truly unforgettable experience like stepping back in time while gliding through some of New Hampshire’s most breathtaking landscapes. The vintage train cars were beautifully restored, and the ride itself was smooth, peaceful, and full of charm. As we traveled through lush forests and over scenic bridges, the fall colors were absolutely stunning, making every moment feel like a moving postcard. The staff were incredibly friendly and shared fascinating local history throughout the journey, adding depth to the views outside the window. Whether you're a train enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing and scenic escape, this ride is a perfect blend of nostalgia, nature, and New England charm."
Salma Mukhtar
"We took a 1-hour ride to celebrate our anniversary and had a lovely time! We bought first-class tickets and had the car entirely to ourselves (on an August Sunday). The views were lovely, the seats and car were comfortable (and the A/C had no trouble keeping up with the August heat), and we had a delightful time.
For the first half of the trip there was a pre-recorded narration of the sights coming up (in a soothing Mr. Rogers–style voice — we felt like he liked us just the way we are!), which helped me get in position for photos. The second half of the trip (coming back along the same track) had no narration.
Probably not good for small children with limited attention spans, but a delightful, relaxing experience for adults who like scenery and history.
One thing to watch out for: We did not allow for the dense traffic we experienced on our way to the station, and we ended up being the last people aboard and had to scramble to get our boarding passes. In general, traffic in the area during the summer was a lot thicker and slower than I expected. (Since we were the only people in the first-class car, though, it didn’t matter that we were the last ones aboard.)
There were a few fun historical exhibits in the station; it's worth taking the time before or after your ride to check those out."
Jay Sekora
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Conway Scenic Railroad is located at the historic North Conway station in North Conway, New Hampshire. It's accessible by car, and GPS will guide you to the station. Be aware that traffic in the area can be heavy, especially during peak tourist seasons like fall foliage.
Parking at the facility is limited. Public parking is available nearby, so it's advisable to arrive early, particularly during busy times, to secure a spot and avoid missing your train.
Many visitors drive to North Conway. If you're coming from a major city like Boston, it's about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive. Consider carpooling or using ride-sharing services if available in your area.
Public transportation options directly to the station are limited. Most visitors rely on personal vehicles. Check local transit schedules if you are staying within the Mount Washington Valley area, as some local services might connect.
Travel time varies greatly depending on your starting point. From Boston, expect around 2.5-3 hours. From other New England cities, it can range from 1 to 4 hours. Planning for potential traffic delays is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary by route and seating class. The Mountaineer ride, for example, starts around $86 per person for coach seating. First-class and dome car options are available at higher price points. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for popular times like the fall foliage season or weekends. Tickets can sell out quickly, so booking several weeks or even months ahead is advisable.
Operating hours and schedules vary seasonally. The railroad typically runs from spring through fall, with special holiday trains in winter. Always check the official Conway Scenic Railroad website for the most up-to-date schedule and operating days.
Yes, Conway Scenic Railroad offers various routes, including the shorter Valley Train and the longer, more scenic Mountaineer, which travels through Crawford Notch. Different seating classes are also available, from coach to first-class and dome cars.
While it might be possible to purchase tickets on the day of your visit if they haven't sold out, it's strongly discouraged. Popular rides, especially the Mountaineer during fall, sell out well in advance. Booking ahead guarantees your spot.
🎫 🧳 Onsite Experience
For the best views, especially during fall foliage, sitting on the left side of the train is often recommended. Some visitors found dome car glass to be dirty, impacting photos, and suggested lower cabin seats offer similar views.
The Mountaineer is a longer, 4-5.5 hour round-trip journey through the White Mountains and Crawford Notch. It offers stunning scenery, especially during autumn, with waterfalls and mountain cliffs.
Restrooms are available on the train. There is also a snack bar, and some premium seating options may offer enhanced amenities. It's a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks as well.
While children who love trains might enjoy it, some reviews suggest it might not be ideal for very young children with short attention spans due to the length of some rides and the scenery being mostly trees.
The North Conway station itself is a historical exhibit, built in 1874. There are also fun historical exhibits within the station that are worth exploring before or after your train ride.
📸 📸 Photography
The Frankenstein Trestle is a highlight for photographers, offering dramatic views. Many photographers also line up along the route to capture the train amidst the fall foliage.
You can take photos from the train, but be aware that the glass on dome cars can be dirty, affecting clarity. Sitting on the left side of the train is often recommended for better views.
The train moves slowly, which can be good for capturing steady video. However, similar to photography, dirty windows can be an issue. Consider filming through open windows if possible or from specific vantage points outside the train.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for fall foliage, casting a warm glow on the landscape. However, the train operates on a schedule, so aim for the best light during your chosen ride time.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, drone usage for photography is mentioned in relation to the Frankenstein Trestle. Always check local regulations and the railroad's specific policies regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider opting for a shorter route if your children have limited attention spans. The Valley Train offers a more concise experience. Ensure you book tickets in advance, as popular times sell out quickly. Bringing snacks and drinks is also a good idea to keep little ones happy during the journey.
🍂 Fall Foliage Enthusiasts
To maximize your experience, aim for a ride in early to mid-October for the best chance of seeing peak colors, though be aware of potential fog at higher elevations. Booking tickets well in advance is crucial, as this is the most popular time to visit. Sitting on the left side of the train is highly recommended for the most scenic views.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
Pay attention to the details: the vintage cars, the smooth ride, and the charming narration (on some routes) all contribute to an authentic experience. While some may find the scenery repetitive, the overall ambiance and the chance to ride a piece of history are significant draws for enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Mountaineer Route
This route is particularly famous for its spectacular fall foliage views, with videos and photos frequently showcasing vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows blanketing the mountainsides. Travelers often recommend sitting on the left side of the train for the most immersive scenic experience, as it offers prime views of waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and the dense, colorful forest canopy.
While the journey is undeniably beautiful, it's worth noting that a significant portion of the ride involves traveling through wooded areas. Some reviews mention that the views can be obscured by trees for much of the trip, with the most dramatic vistas appearing when the train breaks through the canopy or traverses iconic landmarks like the Frankenstein Trestle.
A Step Back in Time: The Historic Station
Inside, you'll find a charming atmosphere that complements the vintage train cars. The restoration efforts are evident, creating an authentic experience for train enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. The station also typically houses ticketing, restrooms, and a snack bar, providing essential amenities for passengers.
Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to soak in the history and architecture of the station, adding an extra layer of charm to their visit. It's a perfect spot for photos and to get a feel for the era of steam-powered travel before you even board the train.
Capturing the Scenery: Photography Tips
When riding the train, strategic seating is key. Sitting on the left side is often advised for the best views of the passing landscape. However, be mindful of window clarity; some travelers have noted that the glass on dome cars can be dirty, hindering clear photos and videos. Consider this when choosing your ticket type.
While the train moves at a leisurely pace, allowing for steady shots, the dense tree cover on some routes means that the most dramatic photographic moments might be fleeting. Patience and a keen eye are rewarded, and capturing the train as it winds through the vibrant New England scenery can result in stunning images.
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