Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
Ride through Pennsylvania's stunning Lehigh Gorge State Park on a historic train, perfect for fall foliage and dog-friendly adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak foliage colors
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
Best Time
Peak foliage colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride through Pennsylvania's stunning Lehigh Gorge State Park on a historic train, perfect for fall foliage and dog-friendly adventures.
"A fun and memorable experience with beautiful scenery, especially in the fall!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Tickets
Especially during fall, tickets sell out fast. Aim to arrive 20-30 mins before departure.
🐶 Pups Ride Free!
Your furry friends are welcome and get their own ticket. A great adventure for dogs!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lehigh Gorge State Park Views
Along the Lehigh River
Experience breathtaking scenery of cliffs, mountains, and the river. Perfect for fall foliage!
Dog-Friendly Rides
All trains
Bring your furry friends along! Dogs ride free and even get their own special ticket.
Holiday Themed Trains
Jim Thorpe Station
Enjoy festive rides like the Santa Train, perfect for families and a unique holiday experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance (Especially for Fall)
Dress for the Weather & Choose Your Seat Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Tickets
Especially during fall, tickets sell out fast. Aim to arrive 20-30 mins before departure.
🐶 Pups Ride Free!
Your furry friends are welcome and get their own ticket. A great adventure for dogs!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Train cars aren't climate-controlled, so be prepared for temperature changes.
📸 Right Side Views
For the best river and gorge scenery, try to snag a seat on the right side.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Tickets
Especially during fall, tickets sell out fast. Aim to arrive 20-30 mins before departure.
🐶 Pups Ride Free!
Your furry friends are welcome and get their own ticket. A great adventure for dogs!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Train cars aren't climate-controlled, so be prepared for temperature changes.
📸 Right Side Views
For the best river and gorge scenery, try to snag a seat on the right side.
🚶 Make a Day of Jim Thorpe
Explore the charming town, shops, and restaurants before or after your train ride.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for its breathtaking scenery, especially during the fall foliage season. The dog-friendly policy and festive holiday trains are also major highlights. While the ride is relatively short, the charming town of Jim Thorpe provides ample opportunity to extend the experience.
"Such a fun and memorable experience! The ride itself was beautiful — you can choose between open-air cars and enclosed cars with windows. The scenery through the gorge is stunning, especially in the fall. The car hosts were super friendly and pointed out interesting landmarks along the way so we could get great photos. My two toddlers loved it!
We went on a Tuesday in late October and were able to buy tickets on-site. Arriving about 20 minutes before departure was plenty of time to get tickets, and board comfortably. Definitely worth doing if you’re visiting Jim Thorpe!"
Bre A
"This train is beautiful, vintage decor, great service, beautiful views. It isn't a long ride, which I was fine with, I paid about $75 pp which included a small breakfast of sausage, egg, fruit and mimosa/coffee. It was just ok for me, my husband was happy to finish his and mine.
We enjoyed this very much and highly recommend it."
Alva Colon (Jeannie)
"This was a fantastic fall experience. The town and the train ride were an amazing end-of-fall must-do. The town itself was lovely and had plenty to do. I recommend bringing a blanket if you’re visiting late fall with little ones. The prices vary depending on your seat, ranging from $22.00 to $24.00 for adults and $9.00 to $10.00 for children. Tickets can be purchased at the train booth, not online. The train ride is 45 minutes."
Arbellys Gloss
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe, PA, is approximately a 2-hour drive from NYC, making it a popular day trip destination.
Yes, there is parking available in Jim Thorpe. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons like fall foliage, as parking lots can fill up quickly.
While the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers train rides from Jim Thorpe, there isn't a direct commuter train service to Jim Thorpe from major cities like NYC or Philadelphia. Driving is the most common method.
Driving is the most convenient option for most visitors. The scenic route through the Poconos is part of the experience. Some visitors have also combined the train ride with a day trip from cities like Reading.
Yes, Jim Thorpe offers various accommodations, including hotels and charming inns, making it easy to stay overnight and enjoy the town and the railway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, typically ranging from $22-$24 for adults and around $9-$10 for children. Dogs ride for free!
For many rides, especially during peak fall season, tickets are sold on-site on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be purchased in advance online. Check their schedule for specific booking policies.
Operating hours and schedules vary by season and specific excursions (e.g., fall foliage, holiday trains). It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
During the popular fall foliage season, it's highly recommended to arrive early to purchase tickets in person as they are often first-come, first-served and can sell out.
Yes, you can often choose between open-air cars for a more immersive experience or enclosed cars with windows for comfort and protection from the elements.
🎫 🧳 Onsite Experience
Most rides are approximately 45 minutes to 70 minutes round trip, offering a perfect duration to enjoy the scenery without being too long.
The railway travels along the Lehigh River, offering stunning views of the Lehigh Gorge State Park, high-rising cliffs, mountains, and lush forests.
Yes, many rides include narration that provides historical context about the region and the railroad line, adding an educational element to the journey.
Consider bringing a blanket, especially in cooler weather, and your camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
Absolutely! It's a family-friendly experience. Toddlers and young children often love the train ride, and the short duration is ideal for shorter attention spans.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some special excursions, like the holiday trains, may include light refreshments or a small breakfast. Otherwise, it's recommended to dine in Jim Thorpe before or after your ride.
Jim Thorpe has a charming downtown area with numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs offering a variety of cuisines.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check with the railway for their specific policies on outside food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire route offers stunning photographic potential, from the river and gorge to the fall foliage and historic train itself.
The right side of the train typically offers the most scenic views of the Lehigh River and the gorge.
Yes, open-air cars provide excellent opportunities for unobstructed photos, but be mindful of your belongings and safety.
The car hosts often point out landmarks and points of interest, giving you cues for great photo moments.
Fall is spectacular for foliage, but spring and summer offer lush greenery, and winter can provide a unique, stark beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The dog-friendly aspect is a huge plus for families traveling with their pets, allowing everyone to enjoy the adventure together. Consider booking a holiday-themed train like the Santa Train for an extra magical experience.
Remember to dress everyone in layers, as the train cars can be cool. 🐶 Pet Owners
Dogs ride for free and even receive their own special ticket, making it a truly inclusive experience for your four-legged family members. +1It's a wonderful opportunity to share the stunning fall foliage or festive holiday scenery with your pets. Just ensure your dog is comfortable in a train environment and on a leash.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The fall foliage season is particularly spectacular, painting the landscape in vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. Opting for an open-air car can provide unobstructed views and easier access for capturing photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Jim Thorpe
Visitors often recommend making a full day of their trip to explore the town's unique architecture and atmosphere before or after their scenic train journey. Beyond the shopping and dining, Jim Thorpe boasts a rich history. You can explore historic buildings, learn about the town's industrial past, and enjoy the picturesque setting along the Lehigh River. The town's walkability makes it easy to discover its hidden gems on foot.
Combining a visit to Jim Thorpe with the scenic train ride provides a well-rounded experience, offering both natural beauty and cultural exploration. It's a perfect getaway for those seeking a blend of relaxation and discovery.
Seasonal Excursions and Special Rides
This is a prime time for photographers and nature lovers alike. During the winter months, the railway transforms into a festive wonderland with its Holiday Trains, most notably the Santa Train. This is a magical experience for families, featuring Santa Claus and a cheerful holiday atmosphere.
It's important to note that these special rides often have specific booking requirements and can sell out quickly, so advance planning is key. Beyond these major seasons, the railway may offer other themed rides or special excursions throughout the year. Checking their official schedule is the best way to discover upcoming events and plan your visit accordingly.
Understanding the Train Experience
+1 Passengers can choose between open-air cars, which offer an unhindered connection with the environment and excellent photo opportunities, or enclosed cars with windows for a more sheltered experience. Many rides feature narration that educates passengers about the history of the railway, the local geology, and the flora and fauna of the gorge.
It's worth noting that the train cars are often not climate-controlled, so dressing in layers is highly recommended, especially during transitional seasons.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit