There’s something undeniably magical about traveling by train—especially when the tracks wind through one of New York’s most iconic fall destinations. After a five-year pause, the Delaware & Ulster Railroad in the Catskills is officially back on the rails, just in time for the 2025 leaf-peeping season. For travelers, this means a front-row seat to fiery red maples, golden oaks, and sweeping Catskill Mountain vistas—all from the comfort of a vintage railcar.
A Long-Awaited Comeback
The Delaware & Ulster Railroad, based in Arkville, New York, had been out of service since 2020 due to the pandemic and necessary track repairs. Its return marks not just the revival of a beloved attraction, but also the reopening of a classic window into the region’s rich history and landscapes.
This year is especially exciting because, for the first time in 25 years, trains will head east toward Fleischmanns and Highmount, offering passengers never-before-seen views of the East Branch of the Delaware River and the rolling Catskills beyond.
Perfect Timing for Leaf Peeping
The Catskills are world-famous for fall foliage, and this train ride is designed to maximize the season’s natural show. Excursions run Thursdays through Sundays from September 18 to October 12, with an extended weekend on October 15–17 to align with peak colors.
Each journey lasts about 45 minutes, making it the ideal outing for families, couples, and photographers eager to capture the landscape in full autumn glory. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, too—bald eagles, herons, and deer often make appearances along the tracks.
Ride Options and Ticket Details
The Delaware & Ulster Railroad offers seating options to fit every kind of traveler:
- Coach / Open-Air Car: ~$23 per adult. Great for those who want to feel the crisp mountain air.
- Premium Coach: ~$25 per adult. Comfortable seating with extra perks.
- First-Class Lounge / Parlor Car: ~$29–$30. Plush, vintage charm for a more luxurious ride.
For a special experience, the Dinner Train is a must. On select weekends, passengers can enjoy a multi-course meal from Café Marguerite while rolling through autumn’s best scenery, all aboard a restored first-class observation lounge car.
History Meets Nostalgia
The Delaware & Ulster Railroad has been operating since 1983, preserving the golden age of American rail travel with vintage locomotives and classic passenger cars. Riding it feels like stepping back in time—slow travel at its finest, where the journey is every bit as rewarding as the destination.
Why You Should Go This Fall
The Catskills are beautiful year-round, but fall is the crown jewel. While many visitors explore by car, a train ride offers something different: a stress-free, scenic glide through landscapes that are best admired at a slower pace.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic outing, a family adventure, or a nostalgic experience that blends history with nature, the Delaware & Ulster Railroad delivers it all.
Travel Tips
- Book Early: Tickets are limited and sell out quickly during peak foliage.
- Dress in Layers: The open-air cars are fantastic but can get chilly in the mountain breeze.
- Stay Nearby: Consider pairing your train ride with a Catskills weekend getaway. Charming inns and cozy cabins around Arkville and Fleischmanns make perfect fall retreats.
Final Thoughts
After years of silence, the Delaware & Ulster Railroad’s whistle will once again echo through the Catskill Mountains. And with its return perfectly timed for autumn’s fiery show, there’s no better way to experience New York’s legendary fall foliage than by climbing aboard.
This season, let the rhythm of the tracks and the glow of the leaves remind you why train travel still captures the imagination—and why the Catskills remain one of the best fall destinations in the country.
