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U is for Upper Hudson River Railroad

© Gary W. Taylor

Well, it sure feels like fall up here in the North Country. We've gone from summer heat to thinking about turning ON the heat in the space of one weekend! It has been in the 40's at night and we can really feel that hint of fall in the air. We're even seeing a few trees starting - ever so slightly - to show off their fall colors.

Of course, thinking of seeing the fall leaves gets me thinking about ways to get a better view. Last year the colors were brilliant and just driving around was a treat. We even took a scenic gondola ride into the mountains at Okemo Mountain in Vermont to get a better look.

But this year, we're planning a Fall Foliage ride on the Upper Hudson River Railroad in North Creek.

The Upper Hudson River Railroad offers Fall Foliage trains on Wednesdays through Sundays from September 10 to October 13. The 2 1/4 hour rides leave North Creek junction at 10 a.m. and at 1 p.m. and offer a great way to see the foliage and scenery along this remote part of the Hudson River. The route runs 9 miles to Riparius, where passengers disembark while the train is turned around for the ride back to North Creek. While in Riparius, visit the museum shop and gift shop and the neighboring Antique and Vintage Clothing Store.

This is a very popular trip and reservations are suggested. Cost is $13 for adults,$12 for seniors (60+), $8 for children ages 3-11, and under 2 free.

The Upper Hudson River Railroad also offers several special events during their fall run. On the weekend of September 13 and 14, all passengers who bring a non-perishable food item will receive a $2 discount off ticket purchases. This contribution benefits the regional food pantry. On Saturday September 20 the Railroad holds Photographer's Day. It is your chance to shoot some great railroad photos! Here's the schedule:

1p.m.: Photo run-by with Locomotive #5019 leading the train.
4p.m.: Daytime fall photo shoot with #5019 and #5 in posing in the North Creek Yard.
8p.m.: Nighttime photo shoot on 90' restored turntable.

And on Saturday & Sunday, October 25 & 26, the annual Halloween Train runs at 10 a.m. and 1p.m. See frightful spooks on along the track at Riverside Hollow. Every child in costume receives a souvenir pumpkin as a keepsake of this trip.

The Railroad also offers trips for school groups that include live history presentations by the conductor along the way. Cost is $7.50 per child.

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