One of the most fun and entertaining ways to tour some of the most scenic areas of Vermont is on board a Green Mountain Railroad Flyer. Trains Around Vermont offers three regularly scheduled rail excursions, and special train events and seasonal excursions are scheduled throughout the year.
The Green Mountain Flyer
The Green Mountain Flyer excursion begins at Bellows Falls Union Station. This mid-19th century station serves Amtrak as well as the Green Mountain Railroad, and the 1940s decor and appearance of the waiting room and ticket office remain in tact.
The Green Mountain Flyer features beautifully restored coaches, and it is pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive. You will take in views of some of the most picturesque areas of southern Vermont on your ride to Chester Depot and back. Views of Brockway Mills Gorge, the countryside along the Connecticut and Williams Rivers and two covered bridges are highlights of this excursion.
The White River Flyer
The White River Flyer departs from Union Depot in White River Junction. Before you board the White River Flyer, you can view the historic 1892 steam engine Old 494 in the Depot Park located next to the station.
The White River Flyer offers a round trip excursion to Thetford, including a stop in Norwich at the Montshire Museum of Science. On your ride, you’ll travel along the Connecticut River and enjoy a fabulous view of the foothills of the White Mountains.
The Champlain Valley Flyer
Champlain Valley Flyer excursions depart from the Burlington waterfront and transport visitors along a scenic journey through the Champlain Valley. You’ll view historic cities and towns and beautiful countryside on your non-stop ride to Charlotte. On the return trip to Burlington, the Flyer stops at the incredible Shelburne Museum and the Magic Hat Brewery.
Special excursions are scheduled for each of the Green Mountain Railroad Flyers, including trips to festivals and special events. Excursions such as the Easter Bunny Express, Halloween Train and Fireworks Trains are fun, unique ways to celebrate the holidays. Fall foliage excursions are a very popular way to view Vermont in its autumnal glory. You can also charter a Flyer for your own special event or celebration.
Children as well as adults will enjoy a Green Mountain Railroad excursion. Riding a train is fun and relaxing, and you can bring books, small games or magazines for amusement during the ride. Snacks and soft drinks are available for sale on board the Flyers for your convenience, or you can bring along your own food for a meal during the ride.
Narrators describe the highlights of each Flyer excursion and point out interesting sites and views along the way. You can sit back and enjoy the view without having to worry about missing a thing.
It’s a pity that nobody responsible for the Green Mountain Railroad, or any of the tourism promoters in Vermont thinks it would be helpful to potential visitors to know that there is, currently, no service on the White River Junction line. We’ve just wasted much of a day and a load of gas, driving to an empty station.
Not impressed.
Tony V.