Take This Fall Foliage Train Ride Through Maine For A One-Of-A-Kind Experience

Of all the regions in the United States, New England is one of the best for fall foliage. And, we think it goes without saying that Maine is at the top of the list of all of the New England states. There’s a reason our beautiful roads get clogged with folks from away during this peak foliage season. Maine is simply the way leaves should be! But, this year, think about doing something a little unique. Instead of piling into the car, take a trip on this one-of-a-kind fall foliage train ride! So it’s time for the whistle to sound and the conductor to call out “All aboard!” for this fall foilage train ride through Maine!

Jeff Gunn / Flickr

In addition to many other events that run from Memorial Day to late October, The Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad offers one of the most scenic trips through Maine's autumn foliage. They offer two special tours through enchanting forests and overlooks during the fall. Choose which one suits you best and let the train whisk you away on a magical journey.

Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad / Facebook

Departing from the train station in Belfast, the fall foliage trip is definitely our favorite throughout the year. The standard fall foilage train ride takes you on an hour-long round trip route that will take visitors through a variety of landscapes.

Each trip is made with two vintage GE 70 ton diesel electric locomotives - numbers 50 and 53 if we're being specific! The #50 has always been in the operation of the Belfast and Moosehead Line - it was purchased brand new in 1946 and has been on the line for its entire life. The #53 came a bit later from the Montpelier and Barre Railroad in 1970.

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Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad/ Facebook

There is something special about getting on a historical train and reliving the olden days. These wonderful trains will take visitors from beautiful forests, with views in all directions...

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Jeff Gunn / Flickr

...to the awe-inspiring yellows, oranges, and reds seen across the lake. Nothing beats the firey array of colors found in New England

Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad/ Facebook

You'll also have the opportunity to cross over bridges for lovely views out over rivers and lakes. If you happen to catch the water just right then the current is slow and the mirrored reflection of the trees only enhances the beauty.

Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad/ Facebook

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Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad/ Facebook

Our favorite thing about the trip is the open-air car that allows you to truly experience not only the sights but the smells that can only come with autumn in Maine. There's something about that crisp, cool air that just feels better in Maine. While you are on the train make sure you find your way to this car to complete the whole experience.

Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad/ Facebook

look we found Waldo!

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Because the leaves turn at their own schedule, you can truly take this trip over and over again without seeing the same views twice. A trip this weekend might mean reds and oranges, while two weeks from now you'll be met with a forest full of yellows. Make sure to follow along with the changing colors before you plan your trip to time it just right, you will always want to go during the peak of fall colors.

Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad/ Facebook

Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad/ Facebook

Whenever you choose to take the trip, make sure you've got a camera or at least a good friend with you. That way, you can relive the journey through photos or through a nice chat over coffee after the trip.

The Railroad is supported by the Brooks Preservation Society, which is an entirely volunteer run organization. These fall foliage trips help to make sure these trains will run for a long time and fund preservation and restoration projects. If you'd like to you can contribute to the ongoing projects they have going. To donate make sure you head on over to The Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad donation page.

Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad

The train departs from the Unity Depot - 212 Depot Street, Unity, Maine 04988. The cost is $20 for adults and $9 for children aged 3-12. Members of the Brooks Preservation Society can ride free, as can children under 3 who are not taking a seat.

Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad/ Facebook

The train departs a few select dates in September and October before the cold sets in, so make your way to Belfast as soon as you can. Times and dates may change from year to year so it is always best to check the website before you embark on your adventure. Get your tickets and reserve a space by checking out the link to the website below.

Doesn’t this fall foilage train ride through Maine just sound incredible? There are two different rides you can go on one being the standard one-hour ride then they also offer an extended fall tour which lasts an hour and thirty minutes. To pick your train ride head on over to the Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad website. If you are coming from far away and want to extend your stay check out this lovely rental in Unity, Maine. Make sure you also check out this video from Youtuber Rumford Branch Collection about the train:

If this fall trip gets you in the mood for some more October exploration, check out this haunted road trip!