The Adirondack Railroad is providing one of the final opportunities this season for visitors to experience New York's vibrant fall foliage from a unique perspective. Its excursions from Thendara to Tupper Lake offer access to remote scenery, all made possible by a dedicated crew of staff and volunteers.
Key Takeaways
- The Adirondack Railroad operates scenic fall excursions between Thendara and Tupper Lake.
- The train crew, including conductors and car hosts, plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and enjoyable passenger experience.
- As a non-profit, the railroad relies on funds from ticket sales and the work of volunteers to maintain its operations.
- The final day for the Thendara to Tupper Lake route for the season is October 12, though other events are scheduled.
The Journey Through the Adirondacks
Traveling by rail offers a distinct way to view the vast, often inaccessible landscapes of the Adirondacks. The train's speed is carefully managed to balance efficiency with sightseeing, providing an optimal experience for passengers.
According to Conductor Al Heywood, the train's pace is intentionally varied. "We go up to 50 just because, frankly, there’s not much to see over that few miles," Heywood explained. "But 30 or 40 is our typical speed. Fast enough to get you there in reasonable time, but slow enough that you can enjoy the scenery."
This deliberate speed control allows passengers to fully absorb the passing views, from dense forests to open wetlands, all painted with the colors of autumn. The route covers a significant distance, with the full roundtrip journey from Utica to Tupper Lake spanning over 200 miles.
A Non-Profit on the Rails
The Adirondack Railroad is not a commercial entity but a non-profit organization. This means that the revenue generated from ticket sales is directly reinvested into the railroad's upkeep, including track maintenance, equipment restoration, and operational costs. This model underscores the importance of community support and volunteerism in preserving this historic travel experience.
The Team Behind the Train
A smooth and safe journey depends on the coordinated efforts of a skilled crew. Each member has specific responsibilities that contribute to the overall operation, from navigating the tracks to ensuring passenger comfort.
The Conductor's Role
The conductor holds the primary responsibility for the train and its movement. Conductor David Julian describes the position as being "the boss of the train." His duties are extensive and critical for safety.
"The train does not move without a Conductor," Julian stated. His responsibilities include inspecting the train before departure, communicating with the dispatcher to get clearance for track usage, managing all necessary paperwork, and ensuring the train operates safely throughout the trip. "It’s fun at times. It’s hard work sometimes, too. It’s a lot of responsibility," he added.
Passenger Experience and Support
While the conductor manages the technical operations, other crew members focus on the passengers. Railroad car host Valarie Schenk works to ensure everyone on board has a memorable experience. Her role is dynamic and people-focused.
"You can’t help but love being on a train. Every day is different," Schenk said. Her tasks include taking tickets, interacting with passengers, taking photos for families, and providing general assistance. "I just help out in any way I can," she noted, highlighting the customer-centric nature of her job.
Did You Know?
The full roundtrip route of the Adirondack Railroad from Utica to Tupper Lake is over 200 miles. The section from Thendara to Tupper Lake is prized for its remote and scenic beauty, especially during the fall foliage season.
Destination: Tupper Lake
Upon arrival in Tupper Lake, the railroad's service extends beyond the tracks. Since the station is located outside the main town center, a coordinated transportation system is in place for passengers.
"The station is not exactly in downtown Tupper, so to get people around to the highlight spots we have that shuttle bus," explained Al Heywood. These shuttles transport visitors to various points of interest around the town, allowing them to explore local shops, restaurants, and attractions during their layover.
While passengers from the main excursion explore the town, the train remains active. It operates two shorter trips for local residents and visitors already in Tupper Lake. These runs go to an area called Sabattis and back, offering more people a chance to experience a ride on the rails.
A Call for Volunteers and Future Plans
As a non-profit, the Adirondack Railroad depends heavily on volunteers to fill its crews and maintain its services. With veteran crew members like Al Heywood retiring after 24 years of service, the need for new volunteers is constant.
"The whistle blows. We need a conductor; we need a full crew. We do it because we love it, and we’re always looking for more."
- Al Heywood, Retiring Conductor
Heywood's retirement marks the end of an era for him but also serves as a call to action for others passionate about trains and local heritage. The organization is actively seeking individuals to help continue its mission.
Looking ahead, the railroad plans to focus on enhancing the quality of its service. While the physical track length is set, officials aim to upgrade the equipment and expand the variety of events offered to the public. These improvements are designed to create an even better experience for future passengers.
The final day for the Thendara to Tupper Lake scenic excursion is October 12. However, the railroad has a full calendar of other events planned. Interested individuals can find more information on upcoming trips and volunteer opportunities on the official Adirondack Railroad website.
