There is so much to see and do in the Hocking Hills and Ravenwood Castle makes a great base of operations for your summer adventures. If you want to get out and see the lovely countryside, but aren’t keen on hiking it yourself, check out the Hocking Valley Scenic Railroad and take a leisurely train ride on an historic train through the Hocking Hills.

This volunteer run organization is based out of Nelsonville, OH (about 20 miles from Ravenwood Castle) and focuses on the historic preservation of the area’s train cars and tracks. Regular trains run twice daily on Saturdays and Sundays, making 30-minute stops at a pioneer village. The regular season runs from Memorial Day through October with additional special train events on holidays like Easter and New Year’s.

Choose between the two times and lengths of journeys to satisfy the train enthusiast in your group! Noon trips are the shorter route (around 1 hour 30 minutes) and run to Haydenville and back with views of the Hocking Canal locks and the Hocking River. The 2:30 trip to East Logan is longer (about 2 hours) and passes through Haydenville, follows along the Hocking River with views of the Hocking Canal locks, an active gravel mine, and the hills that make Hocking Hills famous!

For a truly unique experience, join one of the special Train Robbery events where horseback riding “bandits” attempt to rob the train of fake valuables dispersed to the passengers at the beginning of the journey. Experience the thrill of Ohio’s Friendliest Train Robbery in a fun and safe atmosphere for a truly unforgettable ride. Seating is limited and the events tend to sell out fast so reach out to the Hudson Valley Historic Railroad for more information and to get your tickets.

You can get more information on their website at www.hvsry.org.

After your train adventure, return to the Castle for a butterbeer or craft brew on tap!

Jim Reed

Jim Reed is a lifelong gamer who started with the original red box Dungeons & Dragons. After spending 20 years in the corporate world, he decided it was high time that work be fun and struck out on his own. Jim now owns and operates Ravenwood Castle, and spends his days ensuring his guests have as much fun as he does.