Discover Autumn Scenery across New York State via Rail Travel
Exploring New York's Autumn Scenery: A Guide to Rail, Hike, and Bike Adventures
Autumn in New York State is a spectacle of vibrant colors, and there's no better way to experience this natural wonder than by combining train journeys with hiking and biking adventures. Here's a guide to some of the best rail routes that connect with outdoor trails and bike rentals.
Delaware & Ulster Railroad in the Catskills
Departing from Arkville Station, this historic train offers fall foliage excursions in peak color season (mid-September to mid-October). The nostalgic ride provides stunning views of the Catskills’ autumn landscapes. After disembarking, you can explore the surrounding area's numerous hiking and biking options for extended adventures[1].
Adirondack Railroad
Running between Utica and Thendara, this railroad travels through the Adirondacks’ High Peaks region, showcasing brilliant fall colors. It partners with rafting companies, hiking guides, and bike rentals, allowing passengers to explore the foliage trails and waterways on foot or bike after disembarking[3][5].
Catskill Mountain Railroad
This railroad near the Catskills offers open-air fall adventure train rides, complete with cider and doughnuts on board for a classic autumn experience. Passengers can combine the ride with hiking in nearby forests and mountains for a complete autumn adventure[5].
Arcade & Attica Railroad
This steam engine train runs through rolling hills in Western New York during fall weekends in October. The surrounding area offers countryside hiking and bike-friendly routes for a combined adventure[3][5].
Hudson Valley Area (Breakneck Ridge and Trailways)
While not a train ride through foliage itself, you can take Metro-North to towns like Cold Spring or Peekskill and then hike iconic trails like Breakneck Ridge for panoramic fall views. The area also has bike trails like the North and South County Trailways, which trace historic railroad routes, ideal for a combined rail and bike trip[4].
The Walkway Over the Hudson and Hudson Valley Rail Trail
Accessible via the Poughkeepsie Amtrak station, these trails offer breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley's autumn scenery. The Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, in particular, provides panoramic vistas of the valley below[2].
Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad
Located in Central New York, this railroad offers fall-themed experiences with foliage, pumpkin patch, and trick-or-treat rides, making it a perfect choice for families[6].
Amtrak's Empire Service
Amtrak's Empire Service offers service from New York City to Niagara Falls, stopping at Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo. These stops provide urban leaf-peeping opportunities, allowing passengers to take in the autumn colors while exploring these cities[7].
Amtrak's Carry-On Bicycle Service
For those who prefer to travel by bike, Amtrak now offers a Carry-On Bicycle Service on certain cars, making it easier to combine rail and bike adventures[8].
Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a family looking for a fun fall outing, New York State offers a multitude of rail, hike, and bike adventures to immerse yourself in the fall colors. Booking tickets in advance is recommended due to high demand during the foliage peak[1][3][5].
[1] Delaware & Ulster Railroad: https://www.durr.org/ [2] Walkway Over the Hudson and Hudson Valley Rail Trail: https://www.walkway.org/ [3] Arcade & Attica Railroad: https://www.arcadeatticarailroad.com/ [4] Hudson Valley Area: https://www.hudsonvalley.org/ [5] Catskill Mountain Railroad: https://www.catskillmountainrailroad.com/ [6] Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad: https://ccvrr.com/ [7] Amtrak's Empire Service: https://www.amtrak.com/empire-service [8] Amtrak's Carry-On Bicycle Service: https://www.amtrak.com/bicycles-on-trains
- Discovering the rich history of New York's past is a bonus when traveling aboard Amtrak's Empire Service, as it offers fall foliage views and stations in urban areas for city exploration.
- For an active fall adventure, combining rail journeys with hiking and biking excursions in New York offers an exciting way to immerse oneself in the state's lifestyle scene, whether it's exploring the Catskills, the Adirondacks, or Hudson Valley's historic rail trails.
