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The magic of the Catskills has caught the attention of those in the northeastern US for quite some time. Their draw has even been enough to bring travelers from across the country to experience the beauty of these hills.
Sometimes it isn’t easy to reach the most stunning vistas and aesthetic destinations. Travelers should consider the Rail Explorers in the Catskills as a relaxing adventure where they can lazily ride the rail through some of the most incredible locations in the Catskills.
Travelers should take a moment to learn a bit about Rail Explorers and what they offer visitors to the Catskills.
What to Know About Rail Explorers, Catskills
Travelers should not miss out on the chance to take a tour with Rail Explorers. The magic of riding a railroad is never more perfect than passing through incredible locations like the Catskills. It is truly a unique experience perfect for just about anyone. The Catskills are not the only location run by Rail Explorers. In total, they have five different locations. The Catskills location takes travelers up and along Esopus Creek and across the rolling hills, mountains, and forests of the Catskills. The following are the other four locations.
- Boone, IA - Rail Explorers partnered with the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad to bring the Rail Explorers Experience to the Midwest.
- Cooperstown, NY - Cooperstown, featuring the world-famous Baseball Hall of Fame, is also home to the Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad.
- Rhode Island - The Rhode Island Division operates along the Old Colony Railroad, built in 1862.
- Las Vegas - Just 20 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, travelers can take a round trip to experience the beauty of the Nevada desert, the River Mountains, and the Eldorado Valley.
What is a Rail Explorer?
A rail explorer is a pedal-powered vehicle that rides on railroad tracks. They have four steel wheels, hydraulic disc brakes, and pedals for each seat and are comfortable, fun, and easy to ride. Travelers shouldn’t be intimidated by the pedaling; it is electrically assisted. Travelers can choose either the Tandem Rail Explorer (2 seats) or Quad Rail Explorer (4 seats) for their ride. Single rider 'VIP Seats' are also available.
Catskills River Run
Travelers on this tour will experience the views from the venerable and historic Ulster & Delaware Railroad. Travelers will pass alongside waterways such as the Esopus Creek and through the beautiful woods of the Catskill Mountains.
- Snacks - Yes, it is an eight-mile ride before its turns back.
- Arrival Time - Please arrive 30 minutes before the tour departs.
- Duration - 2.5 hours
- Cell Service - None within 10 miles of the railroad station.
- Weekday Booking
- Weekend Booking
Weekend Golden Hour Tour
As its name suggests, travelers on this tour will experience the magic of the historic Ulster & Delaware Railroad as it is bathed in the magic of the incredible light angles during the Golden Hour. Travelers will pass alongside Esopus Creek and through the beautiful woods of the Catskill Mountains.
- Snacks - Yes, it is an eight-mile ride before its turns back.
- Arrival Time - Please arrive 30 minutes before the tour departs.
- Duration - 2.5 hours
- Cell Service - None within 10 miles of the railroad station.
- Weekday Booking
- Weekend Booking
Some Quick Tips for Riders
Travelers won’t need to be overly concerned with heat and sun; the cars are shaded and enjoy a nice breeze. Travelers should bring some water and snacks as there is only one stop midway through. The only bathroom available is at the start of the ride so take advantage of it. Try not to be late; it can slow down the experience for everyone else.
- Tip 1 - Sunblock & bug spray
- Tip 2 - Wear sneakers
- Tip 3 - Wear lightweight clothes but bring a sweatshirt in case
- Tip 4 - They have a storage basket on each car to store your things
- Tip 5 - It was beautiful this time of year, but I imagine in the Fall, the foliage is beautiful
Can children ride the rail explorers?
The explorers are perfectly safe and easy to ride, so children are absolutely welcome aboard. There are just a few things travelers need to keep in mind. Children must be accompanied by a rider at least 16 years of age to operate the brakes. Groups of children can ride on their own explorer, provided it is coupled to an adult's explorer. All riders, even children, must be secured to their own seat unless they are infants, who must be secured in a chest harness to an adult rider. Some younger children may not be able to reach the pedals. That’s fine, though; they can enjoy the ride.
Booking a Trip and Contacting Rail Explorers
Signing up to go on a ride with Rail Explorers in the Catskills is quite simple. Their website portal does a good job breaking down the process into small steps, so they can set travelers up for the most personalized and ideal riding experience.
- Contact us - +1 877 833 8588 (phones are open 9am-5pm EST)
- Email - info@railexplorers.net
- Facebook - RailExplorersUSA
- Book Now