Fall is such a magical time of year in Washington. As we transition into sweater and scarf weather, the leaves start to change from green into those beautiful autumn hues we know so well. And if you’re lucky enough to take a ride on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad this season, you’ll see our fall foliage at its finest. Let’s take a fall foliage train ride in Washington!

The railroad in this area dates back to the late 1880s. By 1901, there were four work camps working on extending the rail line to Yacolt.
Chelatchie Prairie Railroad / Facebook
The railroad functioned for many decades, but over time severe winter weather and a lack of maintenance caused it to deteriorate. In 1998, a group of volunteers came together with the goal of restoring the line and rebuilding the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad as a functioning historical railroad.
Excursion service resumed in May of 2001. You can now book rides from Mother’s Day weekend through the mid-December winter finale.
Chelatchie Prairie Railroad (BYCX)/Facebook
Some of the most beautiful train rides happen every fall. They offer a Harvest Run at the end of September or early October and a Steam Fall Leaves Special journey in mid-October.
Chelatchie Prairie Railroad / Facebook

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The Steam Fall Leaves Special Excursion is a two-hour ride through scenic fields and forests along the Lewis River, pausing at Moulton Falls for photos.
Ian Sane/Flickr
Passengers are treated to some of the state’s most beautiful scenery.
And of course, you’ll see some gorgeous fall foliage.
CJ Anderson / Flickr
The Chelatchie Prairie Railroad is a nonprofit organization that’s run entirely by volunteers who know how lucky we are to have a functioning historic railroad available to use.
Chelatchie Prairie Railroad / Facebook


Check out a quick video of the steam engine from the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad in this video from tubesmartine:

Have you had the chance to experience this beautiful fall foliage train ride in Washington? Share your favorite parts with a comment.

Why not make it a romantic weekend getaway by staying at this charming cottage on the Lewis River in Yacolt, WA near the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad?

The fun doesn’t have to end with only one scenic railroad – here are some other great train rides you can take in Washington.

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More to Explore

More Washington train rides

Chris Muras | August 25, 2023

What are some scenic train rides in Washington?

 

There are several railroads still in operation throughout Washington State for you to enjoy. Here are a few scenic train rides in Washington that you can look forward to:

  • Lake Whatcom Railway, Sedro-Woolley, WA: For over 100 years this railroad has been treating passengers to a transcontinental train ride through beautiful Washington State. Not only can you enjoy a stunning ride through some of Washington's most beautiful areas, but you can take advantage of some of the railways' themed events. Santa Trains, Pumpkin Patch on Rails, Easter egg hunts, and a Mother's Day train ride.
  • Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad, Elbe, WA: Another historic steam train that travels through the forests of Washington, this railway and museum combo is a fun way to learn about and enjoy these vintage trains. One of its special events is the Mt. Rainier's Rails to Ales train ride. Enjoy a nostalgic ride while sampling local craft beer. You'll also enjoy some live music while you sip.
  • Northwest Railway Museum, Snoqualmie, WA: This is another train museum with the option of enjoying a 70-minute round-trip train ride. The Snoqualmie Depot was built in 1890. In 1957, the museum was built and has been passing on the history of the railroad with scenic tours ever since. It is a wonderful way to enjoy fall foliage in Washington. You can also check out themed train rides for Mother's and Father's Day, as well as Thomas the Train rides in July.

 

Learn more about these epic Washington train rides in our featured article. Then plan your next getaway to enjoy the beautiful Washington landscape by train.

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Featured Addresses
Chelatchie Prairie Railroad, 207 Railroad Ave, Yacolt, WA 98675, USA