The Train Ride Through The Wisconsin Countryside That Shows Off Fall Foliage

In Door County, cherry blossoms bloom in May, and the fruit is ripe for picking in July. But in September and October, when the cherry season is long over, the “Cherry Train” helps visitors discover the best foliage of the season. This relaxing ride on Washington Island runs through the summer months, but it also offers special fall tours that are especially colorful. Here’s what you need to know about fall rides on the Cherry Train, a colorful Wisconsin train tour.

You’ll find the Cherry Train on Washington Island, which is located off the northeastern tip of the Door Peninsula in Lake Michigan.

Door County is known for its unique "thumb-like" shape, which helps complete the Wisconsin “hand.” The county boasts approximately 300 miles of scenic shoreline and is dotted with numerous islands, including Washington Island at the tip of the thumb.

Accessible by ferry, the island is about a 30-minute ride from the town of Northport in Door County. Its remote location adds to its allure as a peaceful fall destination.

The island is characterized by its stunning landscapes, including lush forests, rocky shores, and expansive vistas. Fall skies and colorful trees add to the drama.

The Cherry Train - pulled by a truck across roads, rather than a locomotive on rails - is one of those iconic Door County attractions that hopefully never goes out of business. It’s been taking visitors around the island since 1963.

The train takes passengers of a 15-mile journey that runs about 90 minutes.

It passes many of the island’s top attractions, and riding it will save you the cost of bringing your car over on the island’s ferry.

While the train runs into October, there’s no “snow train.” That ride would be a little chilly, so the train cars are parked for the winter. Cherry season is right around the corner though!

I have to confess - when I’m on the island, I usually ride my bike. The Cherry Train does look like a lot of fun, though, and I’m looking forward to riding this train soon! Learn more about the island's Cherry Train on the Washington Island Ferry Line website, and make all your Door County vacation plans on Booking.com. Interested in even more awesome Wisconsin fall adventures? Here’s what to see and do in Wisconsin.