Historic railcars, mountain scenery and a family adventure in Jim Thorpe, PA
I love train rides. And whenever I get the chance to share that enthusiasm with my grandkids, I’m happy to get everyone onboard.
After a weekend of hiking with the grandkids in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, we had one more adventure planned before heading home. A surprise train ride aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe, PA!
No hiking boots required for this one. Just a chance to sit back, enjoy the scenery and experience the mountains from a different perspective.
And if you’re looking for a memorable way to see Pennsylvania’s fall foliage, this scenic railway deserves a spot on your autumn adventure list.
Riding the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
Departing from the historic train station in downtown Jim Thorpe, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway takes passengers on a narrated journey through the beautiful Lehigh Gorge State Park.
The approximately 16-mile round-trip follows the Lehigh River past wooded mountainsides, rocky cliffs and the Glen Onoko area before turning around near Old Penn Haven.
Passengers can choose from several railcar experiences, depending on the schedule: Standard Coaches, Open-Air Cars, Crown Class Coaches with plush seating, Vista Class Dome Cars with panoramic views, a First-Class Lounge and even a private Caboose. The open-air cars are especially fun for enjoying the breeze and scenery. Not every option is available on every departure, so check the railway’s website before booking.
Passengers can choose from several seating experiences, including traditional Crown Class Coaches, Vista Class Dome cars with panoramic views, a First-Class Lounge and even a Caboose. Open-air cars are also available for those who prefer an unobstructed view of the surrounding landscape.
We rode in the First-Class Lounge, the first passenger car directly behind the locomotive. The car featured built-in tables and chairs, along with movable seating arranged along the walls. A small service bar offered beverages and prepackaged snacks, much to the delight of my granddaughters, who giggled their way through cups of hot chocolate. Apparently, a little onboard service makes a train ride even more special!
The regular excursion lasts approximately 70 minutes, making it an easy adventure to add to a day of hiking, sightseeing or exploring Jim Thorpe.
A Fall Foliage Train Ride
Autumn is an especially beautiful time to ride the rails through Lehigh Gorge. The mountainsides turn shades of red, orange and gold, while the Lehigh River winds through the valley below.
The railway’s Autumn Leaf excursions offer a 45-minute round-trip along the same scenic route. Seating is limited to Standard Coach and Open-Air Cars, giving passengers a choice between an enclosed car and unobstructed views of the fall colors. Check the railway’s website for current schedules, ticket prices and availability.
Fall is also one of the busiest times to visit Jim Thorpe, so purchasing tickets in advance and allowing extra time for parking is a good idea.
Tickets, Parking & Planning Your Train Ride
Departure Station: 1 Susquehanna Street, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
Tickets & Schedule: Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway official website
Tickets are available online in advance or at the station, subject to availability. Check the website for current fares, seating options and seasonal schedules. Prepaid tickets must be picked up at the train station.
Parking: Paid public parking is available in Jim Thorpe. The railway recommends arriving at least one hour before departure, especially during fall foliage season.
Good to Know: Restrooms are available at the station and onboard. Well-behaved dogs are welcome, and accessible boarding arrangements are available at the station.
For the 2026 season, Autumn Leaf excursions run September 26 through November 15. Advance purchasers must collect their actual tickets at the station before boarding.
Exploring Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Nestled in the Pocono Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania, Jim Thorpe is a historic town in Carbon County, approximately 30 miles northwest of Allentown, two hours from Philadelphia and about 2.5 hours from New York City.
Jim Thorpe was originally known as Mauch Chunk, a name derived from the Lenape language and associated with Bear Mountain. Founded in 1818, the town prospered through anthracite coal, canals and railroads. Its famous Switchback Railroad, built in 1827 to haul coal downhill, later became a popular tourist attraction.
In 1954, Mauch Chunk and neighboring East Mauch Chunk merged and took the name Jim Thorpe to honor the celebrated Native American athlete and Olympic champion. The town’s steep hillsides and Victorian buildings once earned it the nickname “Switzerland of America.”
Visitors can stroll along Broadway, explore local museums and historic mansions, or enjoy the town’s restaurants, cafés and shops. Outdoor enthusiasts will find hiking, biking and whitewater rafting opportunities throughout the surrounding Lehigh Gorge.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or spending a weekend exploring the Poconos, Jim Thorpe offers a wonderful combination of history, scenery and outdoor adventure.
For our family, the train ride was a fun way to wrap up a weekend on the trails. Sometimes the best adventures don’t require hiking another mile. Just climb aboard, find a seat and enjoy the journey.
Discover More Things to Do in Jim Thorpe
Want to spend more time exploring this historic mountain town? The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau offers a helpful guide to Jim Thorpe, including historic attractions, outdoor adventures, restaurants, seasonal events and a downloadable walking tour map.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, it’s a great place to find inspiration for your next adventure.
