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Eagle Flyer Returns for February Runs

For the past six years in mid-February, the Essex Steam Train has been offering guests of all ages an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of a Connecticut River winter landscape scene in the comfort of a warm, vintage train car, the Essex Steam Train’s Eagle Flyer Excursion.

“It’s a special experience to ride these historic rails mid-winter and get the opportunity to see the beautiful Connecticut River Valley, during the winter months. Warming food from our kitchen car and the possibility of eagles and other fauna on the river make for a great day out,” said Robert Galiette, CEO and director of the Valley Railroad Company.

Started as part of the Eagle Festival, which was held in downtown Essex in the past, the Eagle Flyer train is pulled by Essex Steam Train’s vintage diesel engine. It departs from the Essex Station on Feb. 13, 14, 15, 20, and 21, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. It’s a 2 ½ hour eco-excursion complete with master wildlife conservationists from Connecticut’s Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) sharing their wildlife knowledge with guests. In addition, an on board ornithologist discusses winter eagle habits and habitats, as the train chugs along the historic tracks.

“The Eagle Flyer is a great way to share a bit of the historic footprint of the area. It is a perfect blend of ecology and history,” said Galiette.

Once aboard, guests can look across the river and adjoining coves through the large split windows of the antique train. Winter’s bare trees ensure expansive views.

“This is a fun, family outing that offers something wonderful to do and a unique perspective of the railroad and the scenery, which is particularly gorgeous this time of year,” said Essex Steam Train President Kevin Dodd. “We call it the cabin fever reliever.”

This year’s Eagle Flyer will offer an expanded menu from the onboard dining car, include homemade soups, sandwiches, and even warm lobster rolls.

“Adding additional food choices is something our guests really wanted,” said Dodd. “Now people can hunker down to enjoy an afternoon with friends and family on the train, drinking in the beautiful scenery, having something good to eat and learning about the unique wildlife we have here.”

First class train seating ($40) offers individual leather back chairs and cash food and beverage service at your seat. Coach seating is $25 for adults and $15 for children. Children under two ride free.

For more information, visit essexsteamtrain.com.