A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Pennsylvania has an impressive and fascinating railroad history. From commercial lines to scenic tours, train travel has always been a cherished way of life here in the Keystone State. Today’s destination is one that embraces this side of America’s industrial history, offering visitors an immersive experience that will take them back in time in the best way possible. East Broad Top Railroad is a family-friendly destination where you can enjoy a scenic train excursion, hop on a vintage trolley, and get an in-depth tour of a historic shop complex. Ready to ride the rails?
Welcome to East Broad Top! This historic destination is one where you can enjoy three unique experiences in one place: train excursions, trolley rides, and shop tours.
After nearly a decade of being closed, East Broad Top is once again able to provide train excursions and tours to the community, thanks to restoration efforts. This treasured National Historic Landmark dates back to 1872, and the railroad is the only surviving three-foot gauge common carrier railroad east of the Rocky Mountains.
The 45-minute diesel-powered train ride is a truly remarkable excursion. As the train winds its way through the Aughwick Valley, you'll enjoy breathtaking scenery from the comfort of your seat.
While the trains are powered right now by a vintage diesel-locomotive, the railroad hopes to have a steam locomotive back in operation at some point in the near future!
Passengers can choose from open-air seats, caboose seats, or exclusive parlor seats. Each offers a unique experience of the recently-restored mainline.
No experience at East Broad Top Railroad is complete without a trip on an authentic trolley. These electric-powered antique streetcars will take you on a scenic route along the picturesque Blacklog Creek at the Rockhill Trolley Museum.
Finally, you can round out your visit with an exclusive tour of the historic machine shop complex. It's here that you'll learn about the railroad's history, including a fascinating insight into why narrow-gauge railroads required their own maintenance facilities.
The shop tours will start at the historic East Broad Top Freight House where your guide will offer an overview of the railroad's history, providing all the context you need to appreciate the next stops on the 1-hour tour: the Roundhouse, portions of which date back to 1874, and the Machine Shop.
So whether you consider yourself a train enthusiast or simply appreciate learning more about Pennsylvania's unique history, you'll find that you can easily spend an entire day appreciating all East Broad Top Railroad has to offer.
Throughout the year, East Broad Top Railroad offers all kinds of exciting events and seasonal excursions your whole family will love. For more information about planning your visit to East Broad Top Railroad, including ticketing and admissions, be sure to visit the official website by clicking here. You can also follow East Broad Top Railroad on Facebook for exciting updates. Have you ever visited this historic destination in Rockhill, Pennsylvania? If so, be sure to tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
