If you’re looking for information about riding the Northern Central Railway in York County, you’re in the right place!
Operating out of a historic train station in New Freedom, the Northern Central Railway offers sightseeing excursions through the picturesque landscape of southern York County, using both a replica 1860s steam locomotive and a 1959 GP9 diesel engine to pull the trains.
Both trains bring history to life, allowing passengers to experience rail travel through the region as it was long ago.
Directions | Hours | Ticket Prices
The Northern Central Railway’s New Freedom Station is located at 117 North Front Street, New Freedom, PA 17349.
The Northern Central operates a variety of excursions throughout the year, which you can browse through on their OFFICIAL WEBSITE.
Ticket prices vary, depending on the locomotive, the length of the excursion and the type of passenger car you choose to ride in.
For my visit on Father’s Day 2024, I bought two tickets on back-to back rides: I paid $30 to ride in an open air gondola car for one excursion, and $52 to ride in the steam locomotive itself on another (more about that experience below).
What It’s Like to Ride the Northern Central Railway
What initially got me most interested in riding the Northern Central Railway was the chance to buy a ticket for a jump seat in the #85 steam locomotive, allowing a front-row seat to the workings of this historical machine.
The railroad brought in the #85 steam locomotive for the Father’s Day excursions, with the #17 (1860s replica steam train) out of service for a scheduled inspection (they did have #17 there on display, however).
While I’ve enjoyed many steam train excursions in my life, I’d never had the opportunity to ride in the actual locomotive until this.
And the ride was worth every penny!
The sight of the coal being shoveled into the firebox, the sound of the whistle from inside the locomotive, and the heat radiating from the engine made it an unforgettable experience.
Built in 1928 by the Vulcan Iron Works, the #85, nicknamed “Mack,” is an authentic standard gauge, coal-burning steam engine that was used by the A.E. Dick Construction Co. of Scranton, Pennsylvania in their stone quarry until 1933.
It was then sold to the Jeddo – Highland Coal Company near Hazleton, Pennsylvania, where it served in mining operations until 1964.
The Gondola Car Experience
On the second excursion, I opted for a more relaxed ride in an open-air gondola car pulled by the same #85 steam locomotive.
The fresh air and panoramic views of the countryside made this ride equally memorable, offering a different perspective of the beautiful landscape.
The excursion I took (twice) was called the Glen Rock Express, a one-hour round trip to/from Glen Rock, located 5 miles north of New Freedom.
This route provided a perfect mix of scenic beauty and historical insights, making it an ideal short journey for those looking to experience the charm of the Northern Central Railway in a compact timeframe.
The train passed by several sites of interest, including old mills, farms, and other structures that have stood the test of time.
The New Freedom Train Station
The New Freedom Train Station, built in the mid-1860s, is itself a historical gem.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this station now houses a museum and gift shop, in addition to the ticket counter for the Northern Central Railway.
The station’s preserved architecture and informative displays offer a glimpse into the past, making it a perfect starting point for the journey.
Final Thoughts
Riding along the historic Northern Central Railway, you can’t help but feel a deep connection to the past.
The experience was not just a ride but a journey through time, providing a glimpse into the lives of those who traveled these rails over a century ago.
It’s humbling to think that President Abraham Lincoln rode the Northern Central Railway twice, once to Gettysburg, PA to deliver the Gettysburg Address, and again 17 months later, as his funeral trail made its final journey to Springfield, Illinois.
The combination of scenic views and vintage train cars creates an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a trip on the historic Northern Central Railway is a must-do, offering a unique way to explore the rich heritage of southern York County, Pennsylvania.
Related Attractions
The Strasburg Railroadin Lancaster County offersscenic sightseeing excursion trains pulled by majestic steam locomotivesthrough the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country.
TheLehigh Gorge Scenic RailwayinJim Thorpe, PAis consistently ranked asone of the best sightseeing trains in the northeastern United States.
The East Broad Top RailroadinHuntingdon Countyofferssteam-powered passenger excursions,shop tours, and visitstothe “roundhouse”.
TheEverett RailroadinBlair Countyhas been offering captivatingsteam train excursionsfrom its nostalgic station inHollidaysburg.
PA’s Top Railroad-Themed Attractions | A Visitors Guide is your ticket to PA’s best railroad-themed attractions that cater to the interests of modern day “railfans”.
Find even more great spots to explore in York County and all across Pennsylvania with theinteractivePA Bucket List Travel Map!
Did you enjoy this article?
If so, be sure tolike and followPA Bucket List on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Pinterest tolearn more aboutthe best things to see and do in Pennsylvania!
Clickon any of the icons below toget connectedto PA Bucket List on social media.
