The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad has announced the eagerly-awaited return of its National Park Scenic and Explorer trips, set to commence on May 5.
After nearly a year of suspension due to erosion along the Cuyahoga River, the railroad is ready to offer its popular excursions once again, but not without significant modifications and costs.
The erosion along the Cuyahoga River had forced the railroad to adjust its operations, including the creation of a temporary maintenance shop to service the train, store event supplies, and provide necessary utilities for passenger travel.
These modifications have incurred considerable expenses for the railroad, which, despite the challenges, has no plans to increase ticket prices for its passengers. Instead, the railroad is seeking support from the community through membership or donations to its annual fund to help offset the costs incurred.
For the first time, all seating options will be available for excursions departing from the Peninsula station, offering passengers a variety of choices for their scenic rail experience. Additionally, the scenic railroad will introduce two dome cars on all scenic excursions, providing an elevated vantage point for passengers to fully enjoy the breathtaking views of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park received a significant boost in funding for riverbank stabilization work with a $14 million grant from the Great American Outdoors Act. This funding will support the planned riverbank stabilization work at eight locations within Summit and Cuyahoga counties in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It is important to note that this work is separate from the emergency riverbank stabilization efforts that were recently undertaken and is scheduled to continue through 2025, according to the park district.
As the much-awaited resumption of scenic rail trips approaches, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad encourages visitors to check the full schedule and purchase tickets through their website. With ticket prices ranging from $13 to $38, passengers can once again immerse themselves in the natural beauty and serenity of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park while supporting the railroad’s efforts to overcome the challenges posed by erosion along the Cuyahoga River.
