Howard Tunnel Special: Vortex Pit Sandwiches and Vintage Coaches through Codorus Valley

On the Howard Tunnel Special, Northern Central Railway offers a three‑hour, 30‑mile round‑trip that reads like a mid‑century postcard: a diesel engine pulling two fully restored Pullman cars through the agricultural folds of Codorus Valley, with a brief stop at Howard Tunnel to stretch your legs. The boarding point is in New Freedom, Pennsylvania; guests check in at the Gift Shop and should arrive 30 minutes before departure.

The trip centers on two remarkable coaches. The Overland Trail lounge car, built in 1949 by Pullman Standard and cared for by Bill Hatrick since 1987, retains its Streamline Moderne interior, a quarter‑circle bar and period details that invite conversation. The Pacific Trail chair car, delivered in 1950, offers roomy seating and restroom facilities. Both cars are enclosed and climate controlled, so the comfort of a classic rail journey blends with modern convenience.

Food is a featured draw. Every ticket includes a Vortex boxed lunch—the signature Vortex Pit Sandwich slow‑pit roasted and glazed with house barbecue, available as pit ham or pit turkey, served with chips and a cookie. Boxed lunches must be preordered. Beverage service, including beer, wine and mixed drinks, is available onboard for sale.

Howard Tunnel is a highlight: not a long hike, but a chance to step off the train beside stone and timber, feel the cool tunnel mouth and photograph the engine framed against valley fields. Note that the wheelchair lift is not available at Howard Tunnel; anyone who wishes to exit must be able to climb six steps without crew assistance.

Beyond the cars and the sandwich, the experience is a local preservation story. This excursion connects riders to regional rail heritage while supporting ongoing restoration of mid‑century equipment. The compact length makes it accessible to families, history buffs and day‑trippers who want a low‑effort way to see Codorus Valley.

Practical details matter: tickets, including membership discounts, are handled by Northern Central Railway—membership holders should call 717 942 2370 or email [email protected]. Check in at the Gift Shop to receive boarding passes. Plan for minimal walking, bring a camera and order lunch in advance to avoid disappointment.

Onboard narration offers historical context about the line and area geology, pointing out notable farmsteads, bridges and stone culverts that mark 19th‑century construction. For photographers, request a window seat on the right side for afternoon light. Wear layers for variable temperatures between station platforms and the climate‑controlled cars, and keep small children supervised near the vestibules, arrive early for best seating.