FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We hope that these answer some of your basic questions.
Where do I go to catch the train ride and where do I park?
Train rides board in Adams, MA. Parking is at the Adams Visitors Center, 3 Hoosac Street. Please park in the visitors center parking lot; signs will be posted.
How long are the train rides?
Our rides are a round trip between Adams and North Adams. They last approximately 60-75 minutes.
How can I become a volunteer?
We are excited that you are interested in volunteering! Please click on the Contact Us tab at the bottom of this page and send us a message. We will get you involved in the areas you are interested in pursuing.
When are you open?
The BSRM is all-volunteer operation and we are open seasonally.
How do I purchase tickets?
Advance tickets for train rides may be purchased online from this website. To ensure contactless payments during the coronavirus pandemic, all tickets for train rides must be purchased in advance on our website.
Does a toddler/infant require a ticket?
Tickets for children under the age of 4 are free, however they must be seated on the lap of an adult during the ride.
Do you offer group discounts?
Yes. We offer a discount for groups of 20 or more for Summer Excursions and Fall Foliage trains; groups of 60 or more must charter the entire train (for RDC equipped trains). We do not offer group discounts for special event trains (i.e. Tinseliner).
Where are you located?
The BSRM has two locations:
When should I arrive for my train?
We strongly recommend arriving at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure to allow time to park your vehicle, use the restroom, pickup/purchse tickets, shop in our museum store and relax!
What kind of train is it?
BSRM operates traditional diesel powered equipment. Although we have a large collection of equipment, our Hoosac Valley Train Ride operates regularly with a classic 1955 Budd RDC or self-propelled passenger car. Budd RDCs are historically correct for this route.
Are you accessible for those requiring mobility assistance?
Due to the historic nature of our equipment, we cannot presently accomodate a passenger who requires a standard width, non-transfer wheelchair due to the structural construction of our RDC equipment.
Is the train air conditioned? Heated?
Our Budd Rail Diesel Car is equipped with its original 1950's era Frigidaire Air Conditioning System. Although the system was state of the art at the time the RDC was built and is fully operational, it may not meet the cooling expectations of modern society. The train crew will monitor the climate of the car and take reasonable steps to address any passenger concerns over temperature.
Is there a restroom aboard the train?
No, there is no restroom onboard. The Budd RDC was originally equipped with direct drop toilets. Due to modern environmental regulations this system is no longer legal.
May I bring food/drink on-board the train?
Yes, you may bring your own food and beverage on-board. However, please be mindful of our volunteer train crew who have to clean up after your visit so that our next passengers have a clean train to ride!
May I bring my dog/pet on board?
No, for the comfort of all passengers BSRM does not permit pets onboard our trains.
Does the train go through the Hoosac Tunnel?
No, the train does not go through the Hoosac Tunnel which remains an active freight rail corridor vital to our nation's economy.
Is there a narration on-board the train?
Yes, there is narration on our trains. Some of our volunteers may expand on the narration to include the history of the surroundings or particular locations you see from the train.
When is the best time to see fall foliage?
The quality and timing of fall foliage depends on a number of environmental factors beyond our control. Typically, fall foliage season lasts from late September through late October. Please check weather forecasts and other readily available foliage informational sources so you are not disapointed.