Hoosier Valley train rides return

The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum began its 2023 train excursion season on May 6 in North Judson. Diesel excursion trains depart from the depot every Saturday, and some select Sundays, until the end of September. Passengers have their choice of riding in open-air sightseeing cars or vintage cars while rolling down the tracks through the northwest Indiana countryside.

Train excursions are roundtrip from the depot and travel about five miles to the Kankakee River at English Lake, before returning to North Judson. Trains depart at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. (central time). The total length of each trip will be approximately 45 minutes.

Ticket prices are $14 per person, $10 for children ages three to 15 and children ages two and under ride for free. Groups of six or more get $2 off each ticket. Purchasing tickets at hoosiervalley. org is recommended as seating is limited.

Steam excursion trains may be available during this season on Saturdays and/or Sundays. Please check the HVRM website or call the depot (574) 896-3950 for the schedule and availability.

Be sure to visit the museum and grounds where the admission is always free. The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum has one of the largest museum collections of working railroad signals and a restored WWII PUllman Troop Car. Stroll around the grounds to see all types of rolling stock, engines and memorabilia of a by-gone era. The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum has many scheduled events planned for this season.

Civilians and soldiers in history displays, reenactors and events will be on July 22. The fall brings pumpkin and Halloween trains and Santa trains run in late November and December. Times and prices for special events will vary from regular train excursions.