FAQ's

Delaware & Ulster Railroad FAQ’s

Below you will find a list of some of our most commonly asked questions. Please visit our contact page and let us know if you have any other questions.

Question	Answer
Do you currently have any trains running?	We don't have any trains running at this time. As of July 2022, the trains and tracks are being repaired. There are no scenic trains running at this time. We hope to be back in operation in spring 2023. Please check our website and social media for updates.
What should I expect to see on the ride?	The Delaware & Ulster Railroad is located in the Western Catskills and follows the East Branch of the Delaware River. The railroad is located in the Haunts of Rip Van Winkle, with stunning views of the mountains, along with a variety of wildlife including beavers, deer, with Bald Eagles and Blue Herron in the waterways along our railroad.
How early do I need to arrive to be on time for the train?	You should plan on being at our Arkville Station; about 20 – 30 minutes prior to departure.
What time does the 2PM train leave the station?	Trains depart on the schedule posted on website, and we try to operate as closely to our posted timetable as possible under regular operating conditions. Click here to see the schedule & tickets page.
How long is the ride?	Our train trips are approximately 2-½ hours for roundtrips to Roxbury, and 1 ¼ hours for roundtrips to Halcottsville.
Can I bring along “that old gang of mine?”	Yes, we offer group discounts for 20 or more passengers when the group is paying the adult full-fare, and make a prior reservation as a group.
If I ride the Rip Van Winkle Flyer for lunch, how long will it take?	Trips on the Rip Van Winkle Flyer, when we are serving lunch trips are normally about 2-½ hours.
I need something special for lunch; can that be on the menu?	If you need something special on the luncheon menu for allergies or other dietary concerns, just let us know at our office (845) 586 – 2929 or Stationmaster (845) 586 – 3877, and we can share your needs with our Catering Staff.
Do I need to pack a lunch or is food and beverages available?	You are Welcome to bring your own picnic or beverages on our Excursion Train, while on selective dates posted on our website, we offer luncheon selections on our Rip Van Winkle Flyer.
How far of walk is it from the parking area?	We have parking near our Arkville station and then a larger parking area in the lower field that is about 500 feet from the Arkville Station.
Does the train have restrooms?	Yes, our trains have restrooms and we also have restrooms at our Arkville Station.
Are pets allowed on the trains?	Yes. Service Dogs are accommodated on all trains on the Delaware & Ulster Railroad, while all furry friends (dogs) are welcome on our Excursion Train!
Is it true, only the engines can smoke at the Delaware & Ulster Railroad?	The Delaware & Ulster Railroad requests under New York State law’s governing railroads and public transportation, that passengers refrain from smoking or using other smoking devices for safety and health concerns on our trains, at our stations and platforms. Your cooperation with this policy ensures that everyone has a pleasant and safe visit to our railroad.
How many steps must I climb to board the train?	At Arkville you can board our trains without any steps, while at Halcottsville and Roxbury, you will need to climb up stairs on the coach to board the train.
Does trains run in snow and rain?	Our trains run on most rainy or early season snowy days! You can check our website or call the Stationmaster at (845) 586 – 3877 for changes to our schedules in the event of stormy weather!
Are reservations really necessary?	At times, our trains are sold out and we suggest reservations ahead of time, to ensure that you able to choose the day and time that you want to ride with us.
What do the trips cost?	Tickets are normally $18 for adults, $15 for senior citizens over 62 and $12 for children, Toddler’s under 3 years of age, ride free as guests of the railroad. At times, we may also have different fares for some of our special trains, that will be posted on our “Events” page.
If I can’t make my reservations, can I come another time?	We would hope that you would be able to travel with us on the day you reserved, but we understand at times that may not be possible. On our Excursion Train you are welcome to revise your trip with us, at no charge or penalty. If you are traveling with us on the Rip Van Winkle Flyer, with meal reservations, we regret that we will only be able to re-accommodate the train ticket portion of your visit with us, to another day.
Is the train air-conditioned?	Our Excursion Train normally has open-air cars that are very popular with seeing the vistas along the way during the Spring – Summer – Autumn seasons, while our Rip Van Winkle Flyer with it’s streamlined equipment is equipped with air-conditioned coaches.
How can pay for my journey through the Haunts of Rip Van Winkle?	We gladly accept cash, checks and credit cards (American Express, Mastercard & VISA)
Where are you located?	The Delaware & Ulster Railroad is located at 43510 New York State Route 28, Arkville, New York 12406. Our railroad is approximately 1-hour west of Exit 19 (Kingston) on the New York State Thruway.
Are the trips narrated?	Many of our passengers like to enjoy the sights and sounds of the train journey without any direct commentary, but our train crews or staff are always available to answer any questions, and they will point our scenes along the route. Trip guides are available from the station or train crew staff.
Is there somewhere nearby, that we can stay overnight?	A listing of places to stay near the train by visiting our Attractions page on our website; as there are a variety of motels and bed & breakfast are located near us!
Are there places to have lunch or meals nearby?	You can also check our Attractions page to find places to find lunch or a special snack or beverages.
What else is there to do when I'm at the Delaware & Ulster Railroad?	The Delaware & Ulster Railroad is only 5-minutes away from Margaretville with its wide variety of unique shops and restaurants. Visit our Attractions section to see where to eat, stay, play and shop while visiting us. You can also visit the official tourism website of the region at greatwesterncatskillls.com.