The Downeast Scenic Railroad offers a 90-minute round-trip excursion that travels along the former Calais Branch of the Maine Central Railroad from its rail yard at Washington Junction in Hancock to Ellsworth Falls, and then returns to Washington Junction. Along this stretch of the Calais Branch Line, you’ll see the Card Brook wetlands, and learn about the history of the area and the rail line. You may even see ospreys, eagles, and deer.
Choices
The train is pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive. Seating options include restored passenger coaches from the 1910s, an open-air car made from a log car, and a caboose. You can reserve tickets, but specific seats are not assigned, so arrive early to pick them out. The open-air car has picnic tables for dining al fresco, and well-behaved dogs are allowed in this car.
When to go
The railroad runs excursions on weekends starting Memorial Day weekend. That weekend, service begins with one trip each day. From the end of June to mid-October, two trips are offered. Visit the website for details on fall color trips.
Good to know
Snacks and water are available for purchase on board the train. You are welcome to bring along your own food and picnic while you ride the train.
Worth doing
The coast is less than an hour away, where you can visit Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park. Activities in the area include hiking, kayaking, and whale watching. Also, while in the area, be sure to indulge in fresh lobster and other seafood and homemade blueberry pie in many of the local restaurants.
Don’t miss
At Washington Junction Yard, the staging and boarding area for the railroad, you’ll be able to see vintage maintenance-of-way equipment and diesel locomotives.
Getting there
Washington Junction is 24 miles east of Bangor. From there, take Highway 1A straight into Ellsworth. At Main Street, turn left and proceed 2 miles, crossing Hancock Town Line, and bear left once over the railroad crossing. Then continue 3/10 of a mile to the second left, 8 Railroad Siding Road. There is ample free parking next to the boarding area.
Location: 8 Railroad Siding, Hancock, ME
Phone: 866-449-7245
Website: downeastscenicrail.org
E-mail: Gary@dsrx.org
