This Scenic Train Ride in New Hampshire Might Be the Most Relaxing Experience You Haven’t Tried Yet

It's difficult for me to say I'm going sightseeing because, I'm usually behind the wheel. I need to pay more attention to the road than looking around. There’s something about slowing down in New Hampshire that just hits different… especially when you’re not behind the wheel.

If you’re looking for one of those “why don’t we do this more often?” kind of experiences, let me introduce you to Granite State Scenic Railway.

Launching this year, Lincoln Rail Bikes will guide you through the gateway to the White Mountains. Lincoln Rail Bikes are a fun, hands-on way to take in the White Mountains, perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking to try something a little different this spring.  You could even get in a little exercise.

Think of a bike… but instead of a trail, you’re riding directly on train tracks.

These are custom-built, pedal-powered rail bikes that sit on the rails, and you ride them through the White Mountains. You’re not balancing or anything, it’s super stable, and most of them seat 2–4 people, so it’s more of a shared experience than a workout.

It’s like: “Hey… instead of rushing somewhere today… what if we just went somewhere slowly?” That’s the whole thing.

This is one of those hidden-in-plain-sight things where you can hop on a train and just… breathe for a bit. No traffic, no rushing, no notifications. Just you, the rails, and some of the best scenery New Hampshire has to offer.

The ride itself runs through some of the most beautiful parts of the state, from the White Mountains down along rivers and through wooded stretches that feel like a postcard in motion. One of the main excursions out of Lincoln is about an 80-minute round trip that follows the Pemigewasset River, giving you nonstop views the entire way.

And then you’ve got the Lakes Region option with the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, where you’re riding along the shoreline of Lake Winnipesaukee. Think water views, boats drifting by, and that classic New England summer feel. Trips range anywhere from about an hour to a couple hours depending on where you hop on.

READ MORE: All Aboard: Why the Café Lafayette Dinner Train Should Be Your Next NH Night Out

What I love about this is it’s not just one type of ride. They’ve got everything from classic scenic trips to seasonal experiences, fall foliage rides (which, let’s be honest, are bucket list-level in New Hampshire), holiday-themed trains, and even rail bike adventures if you want something a little more hands-on.

And the vibe? Super laid back. You can bring snacks, sit back, open the windows, and just take it all in. Some cars even have tables, and there are upgraded seating options if you want to make it a little more of an experience.

It’s also one of those rare things that works for pretty much everyone, date day, family outing, or even just a solo reset. No agenda, no pressure… sometimes the best way to experience New Hampshire is to slow it all the way down.

And honestly… in a world where everything feels fast all the time, that might be the best part.