Reading Blue Mountain & Northern

• SeasonPassenger excursions operate on selected dates throughout the year; the master schedule currently lists regular 2026 service into December
• Trip LengthThe regular Reading–Jim Thorpe itinerary is an all-day outing: 9:00 a.m. departure, more than four hours in Jim Thorpe, and a published return around 6:05 p.m.
• ArriveArrive at least 30 minutes before regular excursions. Some steam and fall-foliage products require one hour; follow the instructions on the exact ticket page
• ParkingThe operator publishes free parking at every station listed on its stations page; use only the lot and station associated with your ticket
• AccessibilityHistoric cars and stations are not uniformly accessible. Call 610-562-2102 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. before purchasing when wheelchair or mobility assistance is needed
• WeatherTrains are scheduled to operate year-round in varied weather. Tickets are non-refundable, although unused intact tickets may be exchanged in advance subject to availability and fare differences
• RestroomsThe operator says restrooms are available on all passenger trains; Open Air cars use facilities in an adjoining Standard Coach
• Primary StationThis guide centers on Reading Outer Station at 3501 Pottsville Pike, but many trips also board at other named stations
• TicketsBring the email confirmation to the boarding location and exchange or show it for the railroad’s paper ticket before boarding
• SeatingRegular seating is general admission. Groups of eight or more should arrive at least 30 minutes early for the best chance to sit together
• FoodPassengers may bring food and non-alcoholic drinks. Select excursions sell snacks and beverages for cash
• Motive PowerRegular Reading–Jim Thorpe service is advertised with Rail Diesel Cars; steam, F-unit, and other special trips are listed separately. Equipment can be substituted
• PetsWell-behaved pets are allowed only on excursions of 80 minutes or less; for all-day trips, only service animals should travel

The passenger fleet includes historic Standard Coaches, Crown Class coaches, dome cars, lounge and observation cars, Pullman accommodations, and four 1950s Budd Rail Diesel Cars. Regular Reading–Jim Thorpe trips are currently advertised with the RDCs. Steam locomotive No. 2102 returned to service in 2022 and powers specifically advertised Iron Horse Rambles and other selected trips. Steam locomotive No. 425 is currently listed as out of service for overhaul. Diesel locomotives and equipment rotate for operating and maintenance needs, so no locomotive should be promised unless the exact trip advertises it—and even advertised steam can be replaced if a mechanical problem arises.