DULUTH TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
A Holiday Pilgrimage Up the North Shore: Christmas Tree Train to Knife River
A three‑hour round‑trip aboard historic coaches from the North Shore Scenic Railroad to Knife River to choose and load fresh‑cut North Shore Christmas trees.
A Holiday Pilgrimage Up the North Shore: Christmas Tree Train to Knife River.
On a short, festive excursion from Duluth, families board restored coaches for a northbound run to Knife River where live music, a holiday atmosphere at the newly restored Knife River Depot, and fresh‑cut North Shore Christmas trees from Northern Connection await.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A short ride up the North Shore
The train runs from the Duluth museum area north to the small village of Knife River, turning a simple transfer into part of the holiday experience.
Choose a fresh‑cut North Shore tree
At Knife River passengers select trees supplied by Northern Connection; trees can be bailed and loaded onto the train while guests enjoy live music at the depot.
Historic depot and holiday atmosphere
The Knife River Depot, newly restored for the season, provides the festive backdrop where music and tree selection create a memorable family outing.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
Board at the North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum, settle into vintage coach seats for a three‑hour round trip, listen to live music as the train reaches Knife River, then walk the depot lot to pick a fresh‑cut tree that staff will bail and load onto the train for your return.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this excursion works for—and who should plan around the limitations.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The excursion is a three‑hour round trip.
You may bring snacks and nonalcoholic beverages on board, though a concession car is available and encouraged for purchases.
Meet at the North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum ticket area in Duluth prior to departure.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are strongly recommended but not required; tickets may be purchased up to 20 minutes before departure. Trains can sell out, so pre‑purchasing is advised.
Can I bring my pet on the train?
No. Pets are not allowed on excursions or in the museum. Only ADA‑defined service animals are permitted; therapy or emotional support animals are not included.
Are strollers allowed on board?
Strollers are not permitted on the trains due to space limitations; the conductor has authority to approve or deny loading of items. Strollers can be left near the ticket office for pickup after the excursion.
Is the train wheelchair accessible?
No. Because of the historic nature of the coaches this is not a wheelchair accessible event; however, ADA‑defined service animals are allowed.
Can I bring food or drinks?
Yes—snacks and nonalcoholic beverages are allowed on the train, but a concession car is available and passengers are encouraged to use it.