Discover the Scenic Journey of the Finger Lakes Rail Experience

The Finger Lakes Rail Experience opened on July 4, offering scenic vintage train rides through upstate New York from Canandaigua, Geneva, and Seneca Falls. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The idea originated with Finger Lakes Railway (FGLK), a freight operator based in Geneva. FGLK joined forces with FMW Solutions to revive passenger excursions and expand regional tourism opportunities.

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Founded in 1995, FGLK serves businesses with reliable freight service on 167 miles of historic track. But the company recognized the tourism value of vintage train rides and decided to launch this new rail project.

FMW Solutions brought in support from the United Railway Historical Society of New Jersey (URHS) and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Together, they developed a high-quality passenger experience centered around local culture and heritage.

Historic Railcars Enhance the Finger Lakes Rail Experience

URHS provided five restored passenger cars, including the observation-lounge Hickory Creek (1948) from the 20th Century Limited, and Swift Stream (1949). These classic railcars were refurbished in New Jersey by volunteers and contractors.

The train also includes a generator car from Operation Toy Train and is powered by FGLK locomotives. The variety of cars enables the Finger Lakes Rail Experience to offer deluxe coach, premium, and first-class options.

In addition, passengers with sensory sensitivities can enjoy a calm, inclusive ride. URHS Executive Director Kevin Phalon praised the partnership for supporting both tourism and preservation goals.

Finger Lakes Rail Experience Partners with Wine Trail

A key feature is the collaboration with the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. More than a dozen wineries and breweries provide tastings onboard, showcasing a regional tradition that dates back to the 1860s.

The area’s microclimate has long supported vineyards, but only in the past 50 years has it become a major wine tourism hub. Now, train passengers can enjoy the scenery with a glass of award-winning wine in hand.

The current schedule runs through July and August, with rides lasting one to two and a half hours. A special Railfan Train will run on September 1 to close the summer season.

FMW Solutions will use this ten-week pilot to assess demand and consider expanding into the fall or winter months. Tickets are available now on the FLX Rail Experience website.

Source: railfan.com

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