The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is a volunteer-run, nonprofit historic railroad that's been operating out of Nelsonville, Ohio since the early 1970s. It's 15 minutes from the main Hocking Hills State Park trailheads and one of the most popular non-hiking activities in the region — especially for families and history enthusiasts.
The Basics
The railway operates from the Nelsonville Depot at 33 W. Canal Street, behind the Rocky Outdoor Gear Outlet Store at the intersection of US Route 33 and Hocking Parkway (Fulton Street). All trains depart from and return to this depot — there's no circle route, so you'll see the same scenery on the way out and back.
The regular season runs from Memorial Day weekend through the end of October, with trains typically running on Saturdays and Sundays. Special event trains run throughout the year, including some off-season dates.
Tickets can be purchased online at hvsry.org (your bank statement will show "FareHarbor"). Tickets are held at the depot — bring your confirmation or a form of ID to pick them up. Tickets are not mailed out. Standard fares are approximately $20 for adults and $15 for children, though pricing varies by event.
Important: Reservations are strongly recommended for all special event and Fall Foliage trains. Regular-season trains are generally less crowded but can still fill up, especially on holiday weekends.
What to Expect on the Ride
Regular-season trains travel the historic Hocking Valley right-of-way along the Hocking River, passing through scenic countryside. You'll see the remains of Hocking Canal Lock No. 19, the town of Haydenville (once a company town), and rolling forested hills. Some regular trains are pulled by an authentic 1920 coal-fired steam locomotive; others are diesel-powered.
Most regular-season trains include a 30-minute stop at Robbins Crossing Historical Village — an 1850s-era pioneer settlement on the Hocking College campus featuring a one-room schoolhouse, log cabin, blacksmith shop, and general store. It's a living history site where costumed interpreters demonstrate period crafts and trades. The stop is subject to availability.
The East Logan trip passes historic landmarks along the way, and some trains stop at Robbins Crossing for a brief living-history experience. The Fall Foliage trains travel from Nelsonville toward Logan and back — about a two-hour round trip with peak autumn color on full display.
You can sit inside a rail car with pull-down windows and a wood-burning stove, or — the better option in good weather — sit outside on long-backed benches in the open-air car for unobstructed views and fresh air.
Special Event Trains
The railway's themed rides are what draw the biggest crowds and the most repeat visitors:
Easter Bunny Train — A spring ride with a visit from the Easter Bunny. Family-friendly, usually held a few weeks before Easter.
Steam Specials — Select dates when the 1920 coal-fired steam locomotive is in service. The sight and sound of a working steam engine is the main draw.
Pizza Train — An evening ride with pizza and pop provided (by Little Italy of Nelsonville). Reservations required.
Ohio's Friendliest Train Robbery — An interactive ride where the train carries a "gold shipment" and encounters bandits on horseback. Family-friendly and theatrical — kids love it.
Fall Foliage Trains — The biggest draw of the year. Runs Thursday through Sunday throughout October and into early November. Thursday/Friday departures at 1 PM; Saturday/Sunday departures at 11 AM and 2:30 PM. Book well in advance.
Halloween Train — Costumes encouraged. Treats available. Great for all ages.
Santa Train — A nearly 50-year tradition. Train decorated inside and out, with a visit from Santa. One of the most popular rides of the year.
New Year's Eve Train — Ring in the new year with pizza and pop or wine and cheese. The train stops around midnight to watch fireworks. Reservations required.
Practical Details
No food or beverages are provided on regular trains (special event trains vary). You're welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks on board. The depot gift shop sells light snacks and beverages. Starbrick BBQ is located next door at the Rocky Outlet if you want to eat before or after.
Picnic tables around the depot are available first-come, first-served. There are restroom facilities at the depot.
The entire operation is run by volunteers — from the engineers and conductors to the car hosts and track maintenance crews. The railway has been volunteer-operated for over 50 years, and they've been making memories for thousands of families. If you're moved to contribute, they accept donations and are always looking for new volunteers (no prior railroad experience required).
While You're in Nelsonville
Nelsonville is worth more than a quick train stop. The town was settled in 1814 and grew into a regional mining center after the Columbus and Hocking Valley Railroad arrived in 1869. The historic Public Square is lined with restored brick buildings, art galleries, and shops. Final Fridays are monthly celebrations with vendors, art show openings, and live performances.
Stuart's Opera House, originally open from 1879 to 1924 and reopened in 1997, hosts over 75 events a year — live music, theater, film, dance, and visual art. It's an intimate venue with excellent acoustics and an impressive booking calendar that includes national and international acts at very reasonable prices.
The Hockhocking Adena Bikeway stretches over 20 miles from Nelsonville to Athens along a scenic rail-trail. The Nelsonville Emporium is a sprawling shop worth browsing. And Adventure Pro Outdoors operates their tubing, canoeing, and kayaking trips from Nelsonville.
Make It a Weekend
Combine the railway with hiking, stargazing, and a cabin in the woods — Hocking Hills at its best.
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