THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Put on your friendliest costume and climb aboard a 70-minute heritage train that rolls through hardwood forests, past an 1820s farmstead, and across the Monocacy River. This slow, scenic excursion from Walkersville Southern Railway is a compact, family-ready way to see Catoctin Mountain views without a long hike.
Put on your friendliest costume and climb aboard a 70-minute heritage train that rolls through hardwood forests, past an 1820s farmstead, and across the Monocacy River. This slow, scenic excursion from Walkersville Southern Railway is a compact, family-ready way to see Catoctin Mountain views without a long hike.
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Operated by Walkersville Southern Railroad · Walkersville, Maryland
Not so Scary Costume Train offers a playful, family-friendly way to sample Maryland's rural landscapes. Departing from Walkersville Southern Railway - 34 West Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville, MD 21793, the 1 hour and 10 minute outing keeps a leisurely ten-mile-per-hour pace that invites easy conversation, costume parades and unhurried observation.
The route pushes through shady hardwood stands before opening onto broad farm fields and sweeping views west toward the Catoctin Mountains outside Frederick. On the way you roll past Barricks Farm, established in the early 1820s, a living thread to the region’s agrarian past. The ride’s signature moment is the crossing of the Monocacy River on the recently reconstructed railroad bridge: low angle sightlines over slow water, riverbank trees, and midstream light give photographers and small children alike a moment to stare in quiet fascination.
Historic rolling stock is part of the draw. Coach passengers may choose an open-air flat car (not available in November) or remodeled passenger coaches, while Parlor Car guests can linger at a table or on vintage couches aboard Southampton. Seating is first-come, first-served and the mix of restored wood, brass fittings and rumbling track noise makes a simple commute feel like a step back in time. Excursions run rain or shine; plan to arrive early if you want a favored seat.
Why this ride matters locally: Walkersville Southern Railway preserves a piece of Maryland’s rail heritage while opening it to everyday riders. The short, accessible itinerary makes it an excellent option for families, photographers, and visitors based in nearby Frederick or staying in Walkersville who want a low-effort outdoor experience. Because the speed is limited and stations are compact, the trip is especially good for visitors who prefer calm, sensory-rich travel — the sound of wheel flanges, the smell of wood smoke from vintage heaters, and the tactile feel of old carpentry.
Practical notes: there’s no restroom on board; restrooms are available near the museum across the street from the station. Children under two ride free on laps; otherwise a ticket is required. Smoking is prohibited aboard the train and in the station buildings.
Whether you’re in costume, leading a small birthday group, or just chasing sunset light over the Monocacy, the Not so Scary Costume Train is an accessible, character-filled way to experience Maryland’s farmland and river country without the crowds and hassle of a longer excursion. Tickets sell quickly for holiday-themed runs; reserve through the booking link to secure seats and consider arriving 20 minutes early to check in and pick a seat. The short duration and gentle speed make this an easy addition to a day exploring Frederick’s breweries, historic downtown, and nearby state parks. Bring a lightweight jacket for river breezes today.
Rides last approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes and move at about ten miles per hour.
Meet at Walkersville Southern Railway - 34 West Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville, MD 21793; check in near the station museum.
Costumes are encouraged but should be non-scary; keep costumes safe and easy to manage for boarding.
No; there is not a public restroom on the train. Restrooms are available near the museum across the street from the station.
Yes, coach passengers may choose the open-air flat car when available, but it is not offered in November—confirm availability when booking.
Children under 2 ride free if seated on a lap; otherwise a ticket is required.
Walkersville Southern Railroad operates heritage train experiences from Walkersville, Maryland, offering a blend of historic equipment and curated excursions for families, couples, and groups. The railroad runs vintage passenger cars—some dating from the 1920s—along historic tracks originally built in 1872, providing an authentic rail atmosphere framed by Maryland farmland and wooded scenery. The railroad’s signature offerings include the Dinner Train, a scenic two-hour ride paired with a three-course meal served by Bollinger's Restaurant; seasonal family favorites like the Pumpkin Patch Express and the Santa Train; and themed adult experiences such as Costumes & Cocktails featuring moonshine from Rosie Cheeks Distillery for guests 21 and over. Special holiday trips, including the Cowboy Christmas Tale, provide private accommodation options such as a cozy Caboose or a Lounge Car for families who want a more intimate experience. Walkersville Southern Railroad emphasizes accessibility for a wide range of guests, with seating options that include parlor-car couches, vintage first-class seating, and unique seating configurations on select excursions. Crossings over the Monocacy River and views of the Catoctin Mountains and Barricks Farm highlight the route. The railroad’s mix of seasonal programming, historic rolling stock, and local partnerships creates memorable, trustable experiences for visitors seeking scenic train rides and festive events in Maryland.
Book with Walkersville Southern Railroad