Train Rides The New
Hope Valley’s scenic round trip excursions
are a mix of relaxing pine tree forest scenery and NC
railroading history. It’s an exciting and
educational experience for riders of all
ages! The scenic
9-mile round trip ride is about 55 minutes
long. All trains depart from Bonsal, NC.Hours of Operation
See
schedule page for train ride events and operations.
The North Carolina Railway
Museum is primarily an outdoor exhibit of historic and
heritage railroad equipment; a living museum. Open
Saturday and Sunday from 9:00AM to 4:00PM.
Admission to the museum is free.
Covered excursion passenger cars or historic
caboose Relax,
soak in a cool breeze as the covered excursion cars
allow passengers the best view of our natural scenery,
the train,
and the crew. Even on the hottest of NC days,
the cool shade of the woods and a slight breeze make the
ride enjoyable.
New Hope Valley Heading north,
your train travels the rolling piney hills of the New
Hope Valley. Keep an eye out for all sorts of wildlife
along the tracks. Deer, turkey, turtle, hawks and even
owls have been spotted in the woods and along the
right-of-way. From time-to-time some plots next to
our tracks are still logged for the lumber - the
same resource that first brought trains into the Valley.
More History
Little Beaver Creek Trestle
Built in the mid 1970s by the Army Corp of Engineers
when the rail line was relocated,
this wooden pile trestle crosses over Little Beaver
Creek. At times the creek is dry
and difficult to imagine as continuous but during wet
periods the stream is broad and swift.
Gift Shop Upon return to Bonsal
Depot, take time to visit the gift shop and view our
selection of railroad-themed mementos and toys.
Display Track Visit the display
track at Bonsal Depot to view of some of our vintage
railroad equipment. Our collection of diesel
"critters" were a mainstay of industry and rail service
in NC. The cars and displays tell of a different
era - when iron rails delivered mail, lumber, tobacco,
produce, raw materials and
a variety of goods.
No On-board
Restrooms There are no restroom facilities
available on-board the train; restroom facilities are
available at Bonsal Depot only.
Handicap-Accessible If you or your group has special
needs, please contact us
ahead of time with your scheduled excursion info, and we will try to accommodate you.
Our platforms and cars can usually accommodate
wheel-chairs, but please don't hesitate to inquire.
More FAQ
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