For the first time since World War II, a train will run between Saratoga and North Creek to bring skiers to Gore Mountain.
On Friday, Dec. 30, the North Country Ski and Snow Train celebrated its inaugural run and hundreds of tickets have been sold in advance.
“The launch of the Gore Mountain Snow Train is a significant historical milestone for Upstate New York,” said Steve Torrico, general manager of the Saratoga and North Creek Railway. “Restoring passenger rail service to North Creek will allow a new generation of winter sports fans to experience the luxury and comfort of train travel that was celebrated in decades past.”
The private railroad company is a unit of Iowa Pacific Holdings, based out of Chicago. Torrico said ever since the company heard it had won the bid to operate the railroad, officials had planned to bring back the snow train because of its popularity and historical importance to the area.
The first snow train arrived at the historic North Creek Railway Depot on March 4, 1934, carrying 400 members of the Schenectady Ski Club, according to the Hamlet’s website. The railroad is on both the state and national historical register and is remembered as the place where Theodore Roosevelt was sworn into office after the death of President McKinley.
“We know there are some hardcore Gore Mountain skiers out there that want to get to the mountain as soon as it opens and stay until the last second possible,” Torrico said. “Those people aren’t our target audience. We’ll attract those people who want to have a nice relaxing time with friends.”
The train ride is two hours long both ways. It leaves Saratoga Springs at 7 a.m. and returns by 6:45 p.m., with breakfast and dinner options available. In addition, the train offers complete ski and snowboard equipment handling and storage from Saratoga Springs to the base of Gore Mountain.
“We try to provide a very leisurely experience to the riders,” said Torrico. A shuttle meets riders at the exit in North Creek to bring them directly to the mountain.
The train can accommodate 800 riders per day and offers a choice of either a vintage coach car downstairs, or dome car seating upstairs. The service will continue every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through March 31.
Although the train is intended for skiers, Torrico said the first weekend saw an influx of passengers who rode the train as a sightseeing venture.
Those who don’t ski can enjoy the ride and the landscape and visit North Creek upon arrival, much like the train’s fall schedule. The hamlet boasts numerous restaurants, shops and cultural attractions.
Round-trip tickets start at $30 for coach cars and $55 for dome seating. Ski packages are also available for those hitting the slopes. They include round-trip train transportation and a lift ticket. Packages begin at around $70.
“We hope skiers and sightseers opt to skip the drive this winter and jump on board for a special travel experience that will offer unparalleled service and convenience,” said Torrico.
For more information visit www.goremountainsnowtrain.com.
