NEW FREEDOM TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
Howard Tunnel Special: A Three‑Hour, 30‑Mile Diesel Run Aboard the Trail Sisters
A concise guide to Northern Central Railway’s Howard Tunnel Special — a scenic round trip through the Historic Codorus Valley with a stop at Howard Tunnel, onboard boxed lunch options, and vintage Pullman cars.
Howard Tunnel Special: A Three‑Hour, 30‑Mile Diesel Run Aboard the Trail Sisters.
Board a GP9 diesel and slip through the Historic Codorus Valley on a 30‑mile round trip that unfolds in mid‑century rail interiors; the Trail Sisters’ climate‑controlled Pullman cars frame valley views and a leisurely pause at Howard Tunnel where passengers stretch their legs before the return run.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Scenic Codorus Valley & Howard Tunnel Stop
The excursion threads 30 miles through the Historic Codorus Valley with a brief stop at Howard Tunnel — a chance to disembark, stretch, and take in the line before retracing the route.
Mid‑Century Pullman Comfort
Ride inside the Trail Sisters’ vintage Pullman coach cars — enclosed, fully climate‑controlled interiors that echo the mid‑century era of rail travel while offering modern comfort.
Boxed Lunches and Onboard Beverage Service
All tickets include a complimentary boxed lunch (choices range from sandwiches to salad) and there is beverage service aboard — including alcoholic and non‑alcoholic options.
What the day feels like
What the Trip Feels Like
For three hours you move at the steady pace of vintage diesel power behind GP9 #6076, watching the valley open and close from Pullman lounge and chair cars; a brief halt at Howard Tunnel breaks the ride, and onboard meal and beverage service keeps the experience relaxed and self‑contained.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should plan alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
All tickets include a complimentary boxed lunch that must be ordered in advance from the available choices; passenger cars are enclosed and fully climate‑controlled, so dress in layers as needed.
Boxed lunches are provided as part of the ticket (advance selection required) and beverage service is available aboard, including alcoholic and non‑alcoholic options.
Arrive early to check in at the Gift Shop and receive boarding passes; plan on arriving at least 30 minutes before boarding to complete check‑in procedures.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Howard Tunnel Special?
The excursion lasts three hours.
Is lunch included and what are the options?
All tickets include a complimentary boxed lunch; choices include Chicken Salad Sandwich, Ham & American Cheese Sandwich, Powerhouse Veggie Sandwich, or Garden Salad. Boxed lunches must be ordered in advance.
Is beverage service available onboard?
Yes. Beverage service is available on the excursion and includes wine, beer, mixed drinks, and soft drinks.
Where do I check in and when should I arrive?
Please visit the Gift Shop to check in and receive your boarding passes and plan to arrive 30 minutes before boarding.
Is there a wheelchair lift at the Howard Tunnel stop?
No. The wheelchair lift is not available at Howard Tunnel; passengers who wish to exit must be able to climb up and down six steps without crew assistance.
How do membership holders book discounted tickets?
Membership holders should call 717‑942‑2370 or email [email protected] to book discounted tickets.