Photo of Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway: Trademark of the Reading & Northern Railroad in New York1 / 2
Trains & Railways

Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway: Trademark of the Reading & Northern Railroad

πŸ“ Jim Thorpe, NY

β˜…4.5(7,394 Google reviews)πŸ‘ΆAll ages

Scenic railway running narrated round-trips from Jim Thorpe through Lehigh Gorge State Park along the Lehigh River. Vintage coaches include onboard restrooms and wheelchair access. Seasonal themed trains include Santa rides and holiday excursions.

βœ“ Lehigh Gorge viewsβœ“ Vintage 1917 coachesβœ“ Fall foliageβœ“ Santa trainβœ“ Jim Thorpe townβœ“ Open-air cars

πŸ† Family Action Verdict

A well-suited outing for families with toddlers through grandparents who enjoy relaxed scenic rail travel and mountain landscapes. Fall foliage visits are consistently rated highest. Open-air cars deliver better views in good weather.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

πŸ’‘Arrive at least 20 minutes early to purchase tickets and board comfortably
⏰Choose open-air cars for better views in dry weather; enclosed cars provide shelter in rain
🎟️Use station restrooms before boarding - onboard facilities are functional and basic
πŸš—Fall foliage season delivers the most dramatic scenery along the gorge route

πŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews β†’
4.5
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7,394 Google reviews

G Reviews from Google

B

Bre A

11 months ago

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β€œSuch 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!”

R

Radhika Chavda

10 months ago

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β€œWe took the Santa Train Ride with Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway (Trademark of the Reading & Northern Railroad) and it was an absolutely awesome experience! The ride was beautifully scenic, and the holiday decorations made it even more magical. Santa and the staff were so warm and friendly, making the trip fun for both kids and adults. The atmosphere was festive, joyful, and perfect for the holiday season. We truly enjoyed every moment and highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for a memorable Christmas outing! πŸŽ…πŸš‚βœ¨β€

B

Ben Fiore

8 months ago

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β€œI was gifted tickets for a round-trip tour on this railway - specifically in the dome car. And while I'd likely never have thought to do this on my own, it was definitely a beautiful experience. The gorge was gorgeous, the train comfortable and spacious, and the guide informative and engaging. I'd definitely consider taking this ride again.”

πŸ’¬ What parents mention

Scenic gorge and mountain viewsFriendly and informative staffQuieter than some expect

Overview

The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway operates diesel-powered excursions through Lehigh Gorge State Park in coaches built as early as 1917. The narrated route follows the Lehigh River past high cliff faces, river bridges, and mountain landscapes to Old Penn Haven. Open-air and enclosed car options are available. Onboard restrooms exist and receive mixed reviews - use station facilities before boarding. Seasonal excursions include Santa trains and holiday-themed rides.

πŸ• Opening Hours

Monday09:30-16:30
Tuesday09:30-16:30
Wednesday09:30-16:30
Thursday09:30-16:30
Friday09:30-16:30
Saturday09:30-16:30
Sunday09:30-16:30
Free to use

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