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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
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β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…Featured review by Bre A

Such a fun and memorable experience! The ride itself was beautiful β€” 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!

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 β€” 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

Scenic gorge and mountain views55%
Friendly and informative staff30%
Quieter than some expect15%
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Bre A

5 months ago

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β€œSuch a fun and memorable experience! The ride itself was beautiful β€” 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

3 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€

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Ben Fiore

2 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.”

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Alice Rodrigo

a month ago

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β€œLOVE the small town! Great location! The train ride was meh. 🫀 Their YouTube videos make this sound so tempting and entices you in the best way but I have to be honest and say it was okay. I'm wondering if it was also because of the noisy family in front of me? They were worshipping the two year old with "Oooooo's" and PLENTY of "Awwwwww!" which came to be a bit annoying cause I couldn't hear what the overhead tour guide was saying. I think the souvenir ticket added a great touch. If you're in this town, make sure you visit the neighboring stores, especially the silly goose. That's a great novelty store and I promise you you'll go broke in there. Oh! Be sure to use a bathroom prior to using the one on the train. That restroom was filthy, tiny and stunk to the high heavens.”

Reviews from Google

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 β€” 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