White Mountains Rail Tour
Group Itinerary
Full Day
Click here to download a timed, printable pdf version of the White Mountains Full Day Group Rail Tour.
First: Arrive in Franconia Notch State Park at the Flume Gorge Visitor Center. The Flume Gorge is a two-mile, self-guided nature walk that includes an 800-ft long gorge with sheer rock walls plus a glacial pool, gigantic boulders, and two covered bridges. The Visitor Center is the perfect place to learn about the State Park as it offers historical displays of the region, a 22-minute free movie, gift shop, and full restroom facilities. Agile groups may choose to explore part of the trail which involves walking uphill, stairs, and at least an additional hour.
Next: Visit Clark’s Bears, a long family tradition of exploration and excitement passed from generation to generation delighting guests of all ages. Take a steam-powered ride through history on the White Mountain Central Railroad. Enjoy a 2.5-mile, 30-minute narrated excursion along the beautiful Pemigewasset River through an authentic railroad-covered bridge into Wolfman Territory. The tour takes visitors on one of only three wood-burning steam Climax Locomotives still operating in the world, and crosses over the only standing Howe-Truss covered bridge remaining in use today. Experience a 30-minute Bear Show, explore five museums, and browse through gift and specialty shops. Dine at one of the multiple food service offerings including the Whistle Stop Snack Bar, Popcorn Wagon, Pullman’s Pizza and Subs, and Peppermint Saloon. A covered outdoor picnic area as well as limited indoor seating are available.
Then: The family-owned and operated Hobo Railroad offers an 80-minute round-trip, old-fashioned train ride from Lincoln to Woodstock and back. Departing Hobo Junction Station in restored vintage coaches, guests travel south along the banks of the Pemigewasset River on the historic rail system that dates to the late 1800s when logging was the area’s primary industry. Along the way, watch for swimmers, kayakers and fishermen enjoying the river during the spring and summer months, while the colors of Autumn take center stage throughout the Fall Foliage season. A variety of snacks, ice cream treats, Pepsi-branded soft drinks and bottled water along with train-related gifts, apparel, postcards and collectibles are available in the Hobo Junction Gift Shop.
After That: Shops, restaurants, and breweries line Main Street of North Woodstock. Fadden’s General Store offers an on-site maple sugar house and museum, groceries, souvenirs, and maple products. Feel the Christmas spirit while you browse New England’s largest selection of ornaments at The Christmas Loft or shop for White Mountains souvenirs at Kancamagus Collectables. Cascade Park, located just behind Main Street, is a tranquil place to relax on the rocks and take photos of the scenic Pemigewasset River. Granite monuments on the grassy common honor veterans at Soldier’s Park.
Finally: Dine at one of New Hampshire’s most visited country inns, the Woodstock Inn Brewery, which offers a gracious and relaxed setting featuring lodging, an on-site 30-barrel brewing production facility and tours, live entertainment, and an award-winning restaurant. Housed in an original late 1800s train depot known as the Lincoln Railroad Station, the restaurant offers a cozy home-style menu with a New England flair featuring locally sourced ingredients plus the use of recycled grains from the brewery in the bakery.
Other options
- While exploring Franconia Notch State Park, ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway. The 80-passenger tram ascends 2,180 vertical feet to Cannon’s 4,080-ft summit. Enjoy beautiful walking trails and amazing views of four states and Canada.
- Visit the Lincoln Village Shops for a tasting at Rhythm Ciders Studio or Seven Birches Winery. Be sure to check out locally made premium outdoor apparel at Burgeon Outdoor and unique style clothing at Three on the Tree Boutique.
- Recognized as one of the nation’s premier dinner trains, enjoy a unique dining experience far beyond your expectations while riding the Café Lafayette Dinner Train.
- Additional group-friendly dinner options in Lincoln and Woodstock include the Black Diamond Pub at the Mountain Club on Loon, the Common Man, Gordi’s Fish & Steak House, La Vista Italian Cuisine, Merland’s Tap & Table, and the Profile Dining Room and Thunderbird Lounge at Indian Head Resort.
