When colorful fall foliage arrives here in Connecticut one of the most enjoyable ways to see the autumn colors is aboard a train. Let someone else steer the course while you relax and soak in the scenery. Jump onto the Essex Steam Train for a delightful 12-mile scenic train ride in Connecticut that all ages will love.

Take a front-row seat to nature's brilliant display of fall color on the Essex Steam Train. The 12-mile train ride will take you through the countryside with exquisite views while you journey in comfort on the historic railroad.

Begin your trip at the historic 1892 Essex Station. Board an authentic vintage coach pulled by the historic steam train.

Fall Foliage trains run on select days from September through October departing at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2 p.m.

In early September the trains run Friday through Monday. In late September through October, the trains run Thursday through Monday.

The family-friendly ride on the rails will take you through the beautiful towns of Deep River and Chester. Travel along Selden Neck State Park and the tidal wetlands of Chester Creek and Pratt Cove. There is no shortage of sights to see on this trip.

The scenery is wonderful year-round, but during autumn the breathtaking colors create a magnificent canvas of splendor. Time will fly by on this one-hour autumn excursion.

Extend your trip by adding a cruise on the Becky Thatcher Riverboat. The 1 1/4-hour trip on the Connecticut River will show you even more incredible scenery.

Cruise past Gillette Castle, Goodspeed Opera House, and the Haddam Swing Bridge as well as many coves, marshes, and rocky riverbanks.

Whether you opt for just the train ride or combine it with the riverboat tour, the steam train will return you to the Essex station after completing this glorious trip.

Purchase tickets at the station or in advance online. For the steam train only, tickets start at $25. For the train and riverboat combination, tickets start at $45. Children under 2 years old ride free.

Learn more about this fun way to check out our state's scenery by visiting the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat website or the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat Facebook page. Find the historic train station at 1 Railroad Ave., Essex, CT 06426.

Take a peek at the Valley Railroad in Essex, Connecticut in this video from Dynamo Productions:

A scenic train ride in Connecticut is a wonderful way to explore the stunning views in our great state. Are you ready to embark on this 12-mile train ride to see the sights? Be sure to board the Essex train with a cheerful smile because it will only keep growing as you enjoy this unique experience.

Check out the predictions for this year's fall foliage display before you go. Why not make your train ride adventure even more special by making it a weekend getaway with this wonderful beach house near Essex?