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©2003 Gullane (Thomas) Limited.

Ride the Steam Train! Ride the Riverboat!

The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat ride is a fun-filled trip for adults and children of all ages!

We have two coal-fired locomotives available to pull our collection of lovingly restored railroad cars. You will be swept away by the hiss of steam, the blast of the whistle, and the clickety-clack of the tracks. From the exciting "All Aboard" to the engineer checking the locomotive before the run, you will experience an authentic journey back to the days of steam.

The Essex Steam Train is operated by the Valley Railroad Company. As a tourist excursion, we are pleased to take you through some of the most beautiful country in the state. You will find forests and streams, beautiful vistas and nostalgic towns, and some gorgeous views of the Connecticut River.

A Year-Round Treat

In the Autumn, the colors of New England are an unforgettable sight. The Steam Train fits right in with the cider, falling leaves, and cool snap in the air that makes autumn in New England so special. Or cap off a day of leaf peeping with a romantic ride on our Dinner Train.

Winter is an exciting time to ride the train. Our Santa Special brings along a special friend - Santa Claus! And the Locomotive comes alive in the crisp winter air. Steam and smoke provide a sharp contrast to the cold and snow. The railroad is starkly beautiful in the winter, and we recommend the experience to anyone.

In the Spring, you can breath in the rich scent of new growth and witness the re-awakening of the Connecticut countryside first-hand. Nothing beats a winter of cabin fever like a ride on the steam train!

Finally Summer arrives. What better way to cool off than a ride in our open car, enjoying the forest shade and the river breezes. Essex Steam Train is a vacation destination sure to please the entire family.

Our Route

We travel northward from Essex Station, through the scenic towns of Deep River and Chester. You will see pristine meadows, picturesque farms, a millpond with waterfall, and several bridges over rivers and creeks. We travel along the Connecticut River near Deep River, where you can see the undeveloped Selden Neck State Park, which is accessible only by boat.

For the wildlife lover, you will see several coves and preserves that are inaccessible via car. We pass near the tidal wetlands of Pratt Cove and Chester Creek. The river wetlands provide a perfect habitat for birds - we often see Cormorants, Ducks, Swans, Greenland Geese, Blue Heron, Egrets, and Red-winged Blackbirds. At certain times of the year, you can spot Bald Eagles along the river.

In the fall of 1999, we were proud to re-open three bridges that were closed for repair in 1996. With these bridges, the Steam Train can travel an additional 1.5 miles north into the heart of the Connecticut River Valley.

The 12 mile, round-trip ride takes about an hour. We travel at a top speed of 20 mph. At Deep River Station, passengers who are taking the river boat ride disembark, and those remaining on board can watch while we run the locomotive around its train at the passing siding for the run back to Essex Station.

Be sure to bring your camera and lots of film - you will bring home beautiful images with which to remember your ride.

Ride the River Boat

Steam Train passengers who purchase tickets for the river boat ride disembark at Deep River Landing. Here, you board a riverboat for a relaxing and informative ride up the beautiful Connecticut River, from Deep River to East Haddam. Sit back, take in the fresh air, and learn about the history and natural wonder of the Connecticut River.

In the heat of summer, the Connecticut River is alive with recreational boaters and vacationers. At other times of the year, the river boat ride is a quieter, more reflective experience. You will see more of the natural wonders that make the Connecticut River special - coves and inlets, islets and deep water, each home to fish, fowl, and river vegetation. Bald Eagles are seen during some seasons. You can also get a glimpse of man-made wonders - bridges, ferries, and river-front homes. Highlights include the historic Goodspeed Opera House and Gillette Castle. Throughout, we'll tell you about the history, natural wonders, and legends that abound in these waters.

Riverboat passengers will sail aboard the Becky Thatcher. You can also rent the Becky Thatcher for charter cruises, functions, and other special events.