The National Museum of Industrial History has announced it will host the 2025 Anthracite Railroad Ramble, a rare mileage excursion in partnership with the Reading & Northern Railroad, on Wednesday, August 6. The day-long train ride will depart from Reading Outer Station at 9 a.m. and promises a unique experience for rail enthusiasts, historians, and curious travelers alike.
Riders will travel aboard a pair of historic Budd RDCs—self-propelled Rail Diesel Cars with open windows—as they journey north through Berks and Schuylkill Counties. The first stop will be the Reading & Northern Steam Shop in Port Clinton, where participants will have the opportunity to tour the cab of steam locomotive No. 2102, observe the ongoing repair of No. 425, and visit the wheel truing shop.
The second leg of the trip will bring passengers to Ashland, where they can choose between two different experiences: detrain to explore the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine—including access to the headframe and the lokie barn where Lehigh Valley Coal Company engine No. 119 is being restored—or remain onboard for two hours of photo runbys. A select number of guests will also have the opportunity to operate anthracite-burning tank engine No. 123.
Back by popular demand, historian Michael Helbing, president of Metrotrails, will provide onboard narration detailing the industrial and transportation history of the region, including the development of local railroads and canals.
A special addition to this year’s event is a book signing with Hank Webber, author of The History of The High Iron Company. Webber’s book explores the golden age of steam-powered rail excursions, featuring 14 chapters and more than 200 rare photographs. Copies will be available for purchase onboard, with limited quantities on hand.
Guests may bring their own lunch or pre-order a boxed meal for $10. Light snacks and beverages will also be available during the trip. The train is expected to return to Reading Outer Station between 5 and 6 p.m.
Tickets are $99 per person and can be found here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-anthracite-railroad-ramble-tickets-1450696695869 with optional add-ons for the Pioneer Tunnel tour ($20) and lunch. National Museum of Industrial History members receive a 10% discount with the code “TRAIN.” Tickets must be purchased in advance at nmih.org and are expected to sell out.
The trip is open to all ages, but every rider must have a ticket. No day-of sales will be available, and all seating is general admission. Organizers note that the itinerary is subject to change and the railroad reserves the right to substitute motive power as needed.
