As soon as I heard about riding the Conway Scenic Railroad Snow Train, I knew it would end up on my winter bucket list. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique journey and why it’s a must when visiting Conway, New Hampshire in winter.

Conway Scenic Railroad Snow Train

The Conway Scenic Railroad has been part of North Conway for decades, offering scenic train rides through the Mount Washington Valley and surrounding areas.

What began as a way to preserve historic rail lines has grown into one of the region’s most well-known experiences.

Especially during the fall and winter seasons.

The Snow Train is a seasonal ride designed specifically for winter. Taking passengers to the Conway Branch between North Conway and Conway.

Unlike the longer scenic routes that run at other times of year, this train focuses on a short round trip that highlights snowy landscapes.

I also got to visit the iconic New Hampshire Ice Castles! Which is one of the best New England winter adventures.

My Experience Riding the Snow Train

Riding the Snow Train felt simple in the best way possible.

There was no pressure to move around, no packed itinerary, and no need to plan every moment.

Once the train started moving, it became all about sitting back, looking out the windows, and letting winter unfold outside.

Arriving and Picking Up Tickets

I bought my tickets in advance, but when you arrive, you still need to pick them up at the Will Call booth.

The Conway Scenic Railroad station is easy to navigate, and there’s a small building right at the railway with bathrooms and a fun gift shop to browse while you wait.

I recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early.

That gives you enough time to check in, grab your tickets, use the restroom, and look around before boarding starts.

Boarding the Snow Train

Once boarding was announced, everyone lined up and the staff let us know exactly where we would be sitting on the train.

Everything felt organized and relaxed, which made the process easy.

We chose Dome Class, which was absolutely worth it.

This seating option places you inside the glass dome car, where you are surrounded by windows the entire time.

No matter where you sit, you have wide open views in every direction.

The Ride Along the Conway Branch

After everyone was seated, the train pulled away and the ride began.

As we traveled along the Conway Branch, informational facts were shared during the first part of the ride, which added context without feeling overwhelming.

About halfway through, the front of the train switched sides and we headed back in the opposite direction.

The views on both legs of the ride were beautiful, with snowy landscapes, the Swift River, and open farming areas passing by outside the windows.

If you can plan this ride during or right after a snowstorm, it would be incredible.

How Long the Snow Train Ride Is

The full ride took about 55 minutes round-trip, which felt like the perfect amount of time.

It was long enough to relax and enjoy the views without feeling like it dragged on. This makes it easy to fit into a winter day in Conway or North Conway.

After the train ride, we headed straight to Arctic Snow Tubing at Cranmore Mountain Resort, which made for a really fun winter day combination.

Explore More of New Hampshire

I love doing all of New Hampshire’s thrilling winter activities.

Make sure to visit New Hampshire Ice Castles: What to Know Before You Go.

I also recommend trying Arctic Snow Tubing at Cranmore Mountain Resort.

Make sure to drive the Kancamagus Highway in Winter! Everywhere I Stopped.

For hiking, try The Unique Experience Of Hiking The Flume Gorge Trail In Winter.

Or, plan a Winter Visit to the Albany Covered Bridge in New Hampshire.

Read all of New England Travel Guides!