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.
Adventure brief
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.
Experience a magical holiday outing aboard the Christmas Tree Train - Coach Class in Duluth, Minnesota, offered by North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum. This unique adventure whisks you and your family on a charming train journey to Knife River Depot, where the holiday spirit fills the air. As you ride along the scenic North Shore, enjoy live festive music that enhances the joyful atmosphere. Upon arrival, explore a curated selection of fresh-cut Christmas trees, handpicked from local growers, allowing you to choose the perfect tree to bring home. The beautifully restored Knife River Depot adds a nostalgic backdrop to your tree selection experience. This event blends traditional holiday activities with the scenic beauty of Lake Superior’s North Shore and is perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones. Whether you're a local or visiting Duluth for the holidays, this cozy and festive adventure offers a delightful mix of train history, holiday cheer, and family fun in a serene winter setting.
Route Schematic
Route & key stops
The excursion runs from the Duluth museum area north up the North Shore with an on‑site stop at Knife River for tree selection and festivities.
North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum (Duluth)
Passengers meet and board at the museum ticket area before departure north.
North Shore en route
A short scenic run along the North Shore leads to the village of Knife River.
Knife River Depot
At the restored depot choose fresh‑cut Christmas trees from Northern Connection, hear live music, and have your tree bailed and loaded onto the train for the return leg.
The historic coaches are not wheelchair accessible. Strollers are generally not permitted due to space; the conductor may approve or deny boarding of items. Pets are not allowed—only ADA‑defined service animals are permitted.
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.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-05T19:26:44.989Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.