ELLSWORTH, ME
Downeast Scenic Railroad
4.3· 447 Google reviews
At a Glance
- TypeHeritage railroad & tourist attraction
- LocationELLSWORTH, ME
- Rating4.3 ★447 Google reviews
- UpcomingSun, Aug 16
About Downeast Scenic Railroad
The Downeast Scenic Railroad carries passengers along the historic Calais Branch from Washington Junction west toward Brewer, presently covering the first four miles to Ellsworth Falls. Trains glide through the rolling landscape of Ellsworth, Maine, offering expansive views of forests, rivers and distant hills. Operated by the Downeast Rail Heritage Trust—a 501(c)(3) founded in the fall of 2005—the line began its inaugural run on 24 July 2010 and continues expanding toward Green Lake.
Upcoming Events
Plan Your Visit
- Trip Length90-minute rides
- AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible entrance · accessible parking
- Good ForFamilies
Find the Depot
The Trains
Downeast runs a restored passenger train of vintage locomotives and renovated coaches over the former Maine Central Railroad's Calais Branch, with a canopy-covered open-air car among the consist — the first passenger service on these tracks since 1960.
History
See full history
The Downeast Scenic Railroad is incorporated as a railway company in 2005. It is owned and operated by the Downeast Rail Heritage Trust, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that was founded in the fall of 2005. The line’s inaugural run takes place on Saturday, 24 July 2010, when invited guests travel the first four miles to Ellsworth Falls. The railroad continues to extend its historic Calais Branch westward from Ellsworth Falls toward Green Lake.
Around the Depot
From Ellsworth, Maine, the Downeast Scenic Railroad sits about 25 mi from the Cole Land Transportation Museum, an easy pairing on a coastal trip.
Getting There & Staying Nearby
Optional trip extras from our travel partners.
Rent a Car
Most heritage railroads sit well off the interstate. Picking up a rental at the nearest airport is usually the easiest way in.
Compare rentals on Discover Cars →Bookings made through this link support usatrainrides at no extra cost to you.
Tours & Activities near Ellsworth
Tours
Guided tours, day trips, and things to do around the area, bookable in advance through Viator.
Browse nearby tours →Bookings made through this link support usatrainrides at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Downeast Scenic Railroad located?
ELLSWORTH, ME 04605
How do I get tickets to Downeast Scenic Railroad?
Tickets and current schedules are available on the operator's official website at http://www.downeastscenicrail.org.
When is the next event at Downeast Scenic Railroad?
The next scheduled event is "Downeast Scenic Railroad" on Sunday, August 16, 2026. See the full upcoming-events list on this page.