Track or Treat Halloween Express — New Hope Valley Railway

The North Carolina Railway Museum operates the New Hope Valley Railway, known as the Triangle's Train, on four miles of historic track through piney woods and over a trestle between Bonsal and New Hill. For its Track or Treat Halloween Express the railyard and tracks are decorated, and rides run in daylight, at sunset and after dark.

The operator says riders can watch the woods for Count Dracula, witches, bubbling cauldrons, pumpkin characters and other friendly spooky visitors, and may catch a glimpse of the ghost train or the legendary Headless Brakeman. Riders of all ages are encouraged to come in costume, food trucks are on site on event days, and private caboose rides can be booked.

The railway is run by an all-volunteer crew, and its trains are currently pulled by diesel locomotives; the operator says steam rides are not available at this time.

A ride of about one hour through decorated woods with costumed spooky characters. The afternoon rides are in daylight, the sunset ride returns under the stars, and the last ride is the full spooky experience after dark. The cars are open-sided with roofs and have bench seating; there is no restroom on the train.

3900 Bonsal Road, New Hill, North Carolina, about 30 minutes southwest of Raleigh off US 1 (exit 89). Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to park, check in at the ticket office and board; boarding begins 15 minutes before departure and trains cannot be held for latecomers. Parking is free. Restrooms are in the railyard, not on the train. The excursion cars are open-sided and run rain or shine; some cabooses have air conditioning and heat. A wheelchair lift is available and one car takes several wheelchairs. Only service animals may ride. Children under two ride free with an adult ticket holder, on an adult's lap if the train is full. Cash is not accepted at the ticket office.