Conway Scenic Railroad to Be Sold – Could a Scenic Passenger Train From Portland to North Conway Be in The Works?
The historic Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway is under an agreement to be sold and there is speculation among railroad enthusiasts that a scenic passenger train from Portland to North Conway could be a possibility.
The Conway Scenic has been in operation since 1974 and offers trips from North Conway to Bartlett and through scenic Grafton Notch in the White Mountains. Trains are pulled by modern diesel locomotives and, on occasion, a vintage steam locomotive.
The railroad is under a purchase agreement with Jon Mark Delli Priscoli a real estate investor and owner of several railroads in New England including the famous Edaville Railroad in Carver, Mass. Edaville is home to "Thomas Land," a Thomas the Tank Engine themed amusement park.
There is speculation among some railroad enthusiasts that a passenger train from Portland to North Conway could be a big draw for fall foliage trips for passengers on the many cruise ships that arrive in Portland during the season. It would travel up the former Maine Central Mountain Division that goes past the Amtrak Downeaster station, through Westbrook, Windham, Fryeburg and on to North Conway.
The line has seen no rail traffic past the Sappi Mill in Westbrook for years now, but has had new rail laid and brush cut in anticipation of new service.
Some rail enthusiasts believe that if anyone could make a scenic train from Portland to North Conway a reality, it would be the new owner of the Conway Scenic.
Either way, there may be some changes coming to the Conway Scenic in the years to come.
Would you be interested in riding from Portland to North Conway on a scenic train? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter.