Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

For a relaxed day out that suits everyone in your group, from grandparents to toddlers, take a ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. Trains depart from the historic station in the heart of Jim Thorpe, about half an hour from Lake Harmony, and roll along the Lehigh River into the gorge in vintage coaches.

Regular train rides last about 70 minutes round-trip, with shorter rides during the busy fall foliage season and special holiday trains later in the year. The views of the river, steep wooded hillsides and rocky cliffs are lovely in any season, but October is when the gorge really shines.

Book tickets in advance on peak weekends, especially in fall, when trains can sell out. Parking in Jim Thorpe is managed by Carbon County and fills fast at busy times, so arrive early and carpool if you can.

Make a day of it: ride the train in the morning, then wander Broadway’s shops and cafés, tour the Asa Packer Mansion and grab lunch in town before heading back to Lake Harmony for a fire pit evening.