Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad To Launch New Rail Bike Adventures

For nearly 35 years, the Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad has offered scenic train rides “along New Hampshire’s lakes and through the White Mountains”. Beginning this Fall, the railroad is introducing an entirely new experience – exploring the rails with Rail Bike Adventures!
“The experience will be a first of it’s kind in the Lakes Region and will represent a new anchor attraction for downtown Laconia” stated Benjamin Clark, President of the Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. “All of us at the railroad are excited about expanding our business and bringing something new to the area. We also are looking forward to being able to utilize the train station for a variety of special events next season – including the possibility of “theater trains” for guests looking to take in a show at the Colonial Theater.”
Guests at Rail Bike Adventures will experience the beauty and history of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region as they pedal their two or four-person rail bikes along a rail line that dates back to the mid 1800’s. These guided tours will begin and end at the historic Laconia Railroad Station located at 15 Veteran’s Square in Laconia, NH which opened in 1892.
The route will take riders past the site of the former Laconia Car Company, which built rail cars from 1848 to 1928. The guided tour will then cross the trestle over the Winnipesaukee River and Durkee Brook before arriving at the shore of Lake Winnisquam – New Hampshire’s 4th largest lake. The terrain the guided tours will cover is primarily flat, especially when riding along the shore of Lake Winnisquam. The experience should be relaxing as well as enjoyable for most riders ages 5 and up.
Safety is paramount at Rail Bike Adventures, so all rail bike tours will include trained guides at the front and rear of each group as well as a flagger at road crossings. The guides will assist guests where needed to help make sure everyone has an enjoyable experience. One of the unique aspects of rail bike tours is that the distance between rail bikes during the guided tours allows everyone to travel along at their own pace, while also enjoying the experience of riding in their own space.
Each of the custom-made rail bikes utilized by Rail Bikes Adventures will be equipped with comfortable seating, built-in hand-holds, pedals for either two or four riders, hydraulic hand brakes as well as a basket for personal items, snacks & beverages.
For those interested in learning more about Rail Bike Adventures, information will be available on our web site www.HoboRR.com in early to mid-October or they can register to receive our E-Newsletter at www.HoboRR.com/contact-us/. Guided tours are anticipated to begin in mid-October 2020 and will continue for the remainder of the Fall season, depending on weather. Operations at Rail Bike Adventures are expected to resume again from the Laconia Railroad Station in late Spring 2021.