Jingle Bells on the Rails: Frostburg’s Sleigh Bell Express

FROSTBURG EVENTS FIELD GUIDE

Jingle Bells on the Rails: Frostburg’s Sleigh Bell Express

A holiday railbike through Western Maryland’s illuminated mountain displays departing from Frostburg, with warm seasonal refreshments and a shuttle return—this guide helps you know what to expect and what to pack.

Jingle Bells on the Rails: Frostburg’s Sleigh Bell Express.

Duration
30 minutes
Location
Frostburg
Operator
Tracks and Yaks LLC
Category
Events
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

The Sleigh Bell Express departs from the historic Frostburg depot for a short, guided railbike ride through a winter-lit stretch of Western Maryland. The outing pairs a downhill pedal experience with more than 100 illuminated displays, festive depot amenities and a shuttle back, making it an easy, family-friendly holiday option.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LIGHTS

Over 100 illuminated displays

The route threads through more than 100 seasonal light features set into the mountain landscape, putting the visual spectacle front and center for a relaxed sightseeing pace.

THE PACE

A family-friendly, relaxed ride

The experience is conducted at an easy tempo and is described as suitable for guests of all ages—an outing intended for sightseeing and photographs rather than athletic effort.

THE DEPOT

Festive depot, market and seasonal beverages

After the railbike portion, guests return to a decorated depot area with a Christmas market and seasonal drinks like hot cocoa and coffee, plus cookies available at a pavilion.

What the day feels like

What the Sleigh Bell Express Feels Like

You set off from Frostburg and pedal a brief downhill stretch on a guided railbike, the jingle of bells and a ring of lights framing the ride. Warm drinks and cookies await at a pavilion before a short shuttle carries the group back to the depot, where a market and seasonal displays extend the visit.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this outing suits—and who should think twice.

1
Active FamiliesAn easy, festive experience geared toward families and multigenerational groups: a relaxed pace, holiday lights and depot amenities make it an accessible seasonal outing.
2
Leisure Sightseers and PhotographersIdeal for travelers focused on photographing illuminated displays and enjoying a slow, guided route rather than a high-intensity ride.
3
First-Time Holiday VisitorsA straightforward way to start a new seasonal tradition—short duration and family-friendly programming reduce planning complexity for newcomers.
4
Weather-Conscious TravelersThe tour operates in most conditions—rain or shine and in light to moderate snow—so travelers who prefer strictly clear-conditions outings should note the operator's weather policy.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The guided railbike segment runs approximately 30 minutes; after disembarking there is a short walk to shuttle buses and about a 10-minute shuttle return to the depot.

Meeting Point

Meet at Frostburg (the historic depot area) for boarding and pre-ride orientation.

What to Bring

Warm clothing suitable for rain or snow is recommended; dress in layers and bring appropriate outerwear for winter weather.

On-Site Amenities

A festive depot area hosts a Christmas market and seasonal beverages; hot cocoa, coffee and cookies are available at a pavilion during the outing.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the railbike portion of the outing?

The guided railbike ride is roughly 30 minutes; after the ride a short walk leads to a shuttle that returns guests to the depot (about a 10-minute shuttle).

Where do participants meet for the Sleigh Bell Express?

The meeting point is Frostburg at the depot.

Is the experience family-friendly?

Yes—operators describe the outing as family-friendly and suitable for guests of all ages, run at a relaxed pace for sightseeing and photos.

What refreshments are provided?

Guests can enjoy hot cocoa, coffee and cookies at a scenic pavilion, and the depot area features a Christmas market with seasonal beverages.

What happens in bad weather?

Tours run rain or shine and operate in light to moderate snow; guests should dress for winter weather.

Is there any walking required?

Yes—there is a short walk after the railbike portion that includes a staircase to reach the shuttle buses.