Planning a visit? Take the tour to to get complete information on our historic trains and schedule!
Get Involved
Since 1972, the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway has been entirely managed, operated, and maintained by volunteer members. If you have an interest in historic preservation and interpretation, we have a place for you! Our friendly volunteers have helped make memories for thousands of families over the last forty-four years--you can be one of us! And if you're not local to Nelsonville, that's okay--you wouldn't be alone! We have many volunteers from up to a two-hour drive away that help out consistently. Please consider joining today!

The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway has been all-volunteer-operated for over forty years. You can be a part of history! There's always a need for car hosts, brakemen, conductors, depot staff, shop personnel, track maintainers and more! No prior railroad experience is required. With your willingness to learn, we can train you right from your experience and skill level.
Membership Basics
Even though we are entirely self-funded through ticket sales, there's only so far we can go with volunteer labor and tickets. To accelerate our restoration and maintenance projects to help preserve railroad history and make for an even greater experience to our visitors, monetary (and even tool and equipment) donations are always welcome! We are a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation, so all donations are tax deductible! Please consider donating today, and we thank you in advance!
Ways to supportWhat our visitors are saying about their experience
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If you are looking for a fun train experience with an authentic feel to it this is it! You walk up to an authentic train station in front of a real train that is running and take a ride that is not too long but is “just right” as far as the time goes! The kids love it and you can tell the people who volunteer to staff this really enjoy what they do!
TripAdvisor Review from honest316 -
We found the train ride to be very enjoyable and peaceful. The price is definitely a plus, It is a good value. We enjoyed the narrative of the area and of the train given by the volunteer.
Joyce M -
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is a good family value. The price is reasonable and the ride is enjoyable. You also learn a bit about the history of the area, which was once rich in coal, iron, and clay.
TripAdvisor Review from Thither47 -
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is a family-friendly atmosphere. My Grandkids LOVE the train rides. Besides the regular seasonal weekend trains, they have special event trains like the always-popular Easter Bunny and Santa Trains.
Phillip B