FAQ


Enjoy a relaxing journey through the rural Hunterdon County countryside on our weekend passenger excursions. During your trip you will enjoy the view from Copper Hill Trestle, see local farms and nurseries, and even glimpse a miniature railway right next to our track. At Ringoes you may enjoy a picnic at our shaded grove, browse the gift shop, and explore the rail-yard with one of our knowledgable volunteers. At Flemington do some shopping, visit the historic downtown area on Main Street, and grab a bite to eat, all within convenient walking distance of Flemington Station.

Regular weekend excursions are typically less crowded than special events, so you'll have a chance to spend some time swapping stories with the Conductor or just enjoying the relaxing sounds of the train.

The complete schedule of weekend passenger excursions and special events can be found on our 'Schedule & Fares' page.


Model Train Show
The Model Train Show is held every spring at the Flemington Elks Lodge. The show features an operating model train layout, vendors selling railroad related merchandise and model trains in all gauges, a model train test track, and more. Trust representatives also are present to discuss our projects, trains, and to answer any questions you have about the Trust.

Railroad Days
Railroad Days is held for one weekend every June. This event highlights the various aspects of the Black River & Western Railroad operations including freight, passenger, and maintanance of way. Some of the most popular features of the Railroad Days event are:
  • The Photo Freight. This is a rare opportunity for passengers to tag along with our weekday freight crew. Passengers will see freight cars be delivered to customers and can take advantage of several photo-runbys to take memorable pictures. Lunch is included in the ticket price for this train.
  • Caboose rides. Several opportunities are offered to ride in an old-fashioned railroad caboose.
  • Operating model train layouts, including a model live-steam locomotive.
  • Locomotive horn display and demonstration.
  • Railroad shop tours.
  • MoW speeder display and demonstration.

The Great Train Robbery
Every year the Black River & Western Railroad hosts the Great Train Robbery. During the trip to Ringoes the dreaded 'Covered Bridge Gang' boards the train to steal 'Black River Bucks' from unsuspecting passengers. Don't worry, the Sheriff is there to help protect the train and bring the bandits to justice! Kids are encouraged to wear their bandana and bring their cap gun to help the Sheriff as his deputy. 'Black River Bucks' are available at Flemington Station in exchange for a donation of any amount to a local charity.

This event is family-friendly and appropriate for younger children, although parental discretion is advised.

The Crazy Train Maize at Pumpkin Junction
Ride the train this fall to visit our 10 acre corn maze and pumpkin patch. The corn maze and pumpkin patch open the last Friday in September and operate every weekend in October. Kids receive a free baby pumpkin at the pumpkin patch, and additional pumpkins will be available for sale. The corn maze and pumpkin patch are accessible only by train; free parking is available at Ringoes Station.

Click Here for complete information about this event.

The Santa Express
Merry Christmas! Santa and his elves will be riding the train to Ringoes to greet our passengers and give each child a candy-cane. Photo opportunities with Santa will be available as time permits.

The North Pole Express
Board this evening train for an exciting journey to the North Pole to see Santa! At the North Pole Santa will greet passengers and choose a child to receive the first gift of Christmas. Hot chocolate will be served, and every child will have a chance to sit on Santa's lap for a photo. On the return trip to Flemington Santa will give each child their own Christmas gift. Advance reservations required. Reservations can be made through our online store.
Last Updated December 18, 2008. Schedule info updated.
Copyright (c) 2005-2008 Black River Railroad Historical Trust, Inc. The Trust is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation.