4 Michigan Fall Color Train Tours for a Unique Experience This Autumn

Seeing the Michigan fall colors is an essential experience whether you live in or visit Michigan. The vibrant shades of yellow and red are a beautiful backdrop for hikes and scenic road trips.

However, these aren’t the only ways to observe the changing leaves. You can go on a relaxing Michigan fall color train tour. In fact, it’s one of the top unique ways to see the fall foliage.

Here are four Michigan train companies that offer unique rides for fall foliage viewing…

Pumpkin Train | Coopersville to Marne

Every October, the volunteer-run Friends of the Coopersville and Marne Railway turn their historic line into one of West Michigan’s most beloved fall traditions: the Pumpkin Train. This 90-minute round-trip ride rolls from downtown Coopersville to Marne and back, crossing a road bridge and creeks and passing farms and fields along the way. (The train doesn’t stop in Marne, so plan on staying aboard for the whole ride.)

You’ll ride in vintage passenger cars that are more than 100 years old, renovated and decorated for the season. A friendly conductor shares railroad history and details about the equipment, while the Famous Pumpkin and his goofy sidekicks sing, dance, and keep the kids laughing. Halloween costumes are encouraged for kids and parents, and children receive a gift and candy at the end of the ride.

Coach or Premium? Coach Class seats you in the climate-controlled historic cars. For a little something extra, upgrade to Premium Class for table seating (groups of four; smaller parties may share a table), locally sourced cider, and a pumpkin-themed donut.

Tickets: Coach is $35 for ages 13+ and $30 for ages 1–12. Premium is $45 for ages 13+ and $40 for ages 1–12. Infants under 1 ride free on a parent’s lap, and wheelchair seats with tie-downs are $40. Book online at mitrain.net or call (616) 997-7000.

Good to know: The Pumpkin Train runs on weekends in October only and sells out quickly, so book early. Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure. The ticket office and station are at 306 Main Street in Coopersville, and the boarding platform is at 311 Danforth Street. Restrooms are available in the station and on board.

Southern Michigan Fall Color Tours | Tecumseh to Clinton

The Southern Michigan Railroad Society operates scenic train rides in Michigan during October. The train crosses the River Raisin near the Red Millpond, which features excellent views of the changing leaves.

You get the best view from the open-air gondola car, but a fully enclosed caboose is available as well. If the weather keeps you from riding in the open-air gondola, exploring the antique shops and stores in Tecumseh are a lovely alternative.

“We took the Sunday morning train ride during the Appleumpkin Festival. It was a beautiful crisp fall day. We were in the open car and could see everything perfectly. There were herons, eagles and deer along the way. It was a fun way to spend a couple hours.”

TripAdvisor review

The Fall Color Tour takes riders on a leisurely trip through northern Lenawee County. The train departs from the City of Tecumseh heading north to the Village of Clinton and returns on the same track.

This is the oldest branch line in the state. This railroad once played an important role in the local economy. As the colors change, imagine the countless passengers that once rode this line to points beyond.

Once north of the city, riders will enter the Red Mill Pond area. The train slows down for a chance to see the many different animals that call this habitat home.

At the Clinton Station, riders can enjoy some delicious, locally made apple cider and visit the gift shop. After a short layover, the train will head back to Tecumseh. Each fall color train trip is expected to take around 2 hours.

Huckleberry Ghost Train Express at Crossroads Village | Flint

Halloween Ghosts & Goodies at Crossroads Village is one of the most beloved fall traditions in Genesee County, and no visit is complete without taking a 40-minute ride through the fall foliage on the famous Huckleberry Ghost Train Express.

Fun for the whole family, this fall festival includes treats, tricks, cider, donuts, magic shows, a straw maze, and more. An optional Halloween dinner buffet is served on Saturday evenings.

“My family went to the Halloween event yesterday. It was 10 of us total. The ages ranged from 2 years up to 62 years old… There were multiple stops for the kids to get candy one stop even gave out an apple. The kids were so excited to see all the different Halloween decorations all over the village.

All the workers had on nice costumes and were very friendly. Everyone enjoyed the complimentary donuts and apple cider. They were other things for sale like pizza, soda and hot cocoa.

The train ride was nice it was about 40 minutes long. There were plenty of Halloween decorations to look at as we enjoyed the ride. This was all of our first time there but we will definitely be back!”

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Little River Railroad Fall Pumpkin Train | Coldwater to Quincy

Little River Railroad offers scenic train rides powered by antique steam locomotives in Michigan. The popular 1.5-hour train trips run between Coldwater and Quincy and are a great way to enjoy Michigan’s fall foliage.

These fall train rides are a perfect way to relax and take in beautiful scenery during the autumn season. It is highly recommended to pre-purchase tickets as there is limited availability.

Steam Railroading Institute | Owosso

Important: Fall color train rides are not currently offered by the Steam Railroading Institute. However, these seasonal excursions may return in the future, so check the institute’s schedule for updates.

The Steam Railroading Institute is home to the Pere Marquette 1225, the largest steam locomotive in Michigan. While fall color tours are not available at this time, watch for future announcements or consider booking the popular North Pole Express during the holiday season.

Other Ways to Enjoy Michigan Fall Foliage

Aside from taking a Michigan fall color train tour, there are numerous ways to enjoy the fall colors and fall activities. For example, you could check out some of the state’s delightful apple orchards and one-of-a-kind corn mazes.

Moreover, there are several must-visit places in Michigan for fall foliage.