PALESTINECHAMBER . ORG 49
Where history is just part of the journey
In our fast-paced world folks often forget to slow
down and unplug , to take time to savor soothing moments -- big and small -- and to appreciate life and loved ones . An adventure aboard the Texas State Railroad is the antidote to the hustle of the modern world . The TSSR moves passengers back into another century where wild forests , tranquil rivers and peaceful ranchlands blend harmoniously with midcentury architecture and vintage transportation . Historic steam and diesel locomotives take travelers across the celebrated rails of the Piney Woods route between the quaint East Texas towns of Palestine and Rusk . During this 50-mile roundtrip exploration , the daily grind disappears and time stands motionless . This quintessential daytrip provides the perfect combination of relaxation and fun accented by antiquity , as the region ’ s many high points are even more delightful when seen from the vantage point of a vintage train .
All of Texas State Railroad ’ s early 20th Century passenger coaches recently were upgraded with amenities added to meet the comfort expectation of the new millennial traveler , while consciously preserving the historic integrity associated with train travel over 100 years ago . During the four-hour excursion , including an hour layover for lunch at one of the handsome depots , the train travels 25 miles through the scenic Piney Woods and hardwood creek bottoms . Amidst the backdrop of rolling hills it passes over 24 bridges , including one over 1,000 feet long , and nears unusual railroad structures including a vintage locomotive turntable located midway on the route .
Seasonal events continue to punctuate the Texas State Railroad calendar , like the ever-popular Polar Express excursion during November and December , but trains now depart from either Rusk or Palestine on a year-round schedule . Passengers may choose to ride in one of five comfortable accommodation options pulled by either a diesel or steam locomotive , depending on time of year and day of travel . Whenever one chooses to ride , one thing is a given : choosing time spent with family and friends , savoring beautiful history and nature while turning off ever-present electronic devices , avoiding traffic congestion and city mayhem , and immersing oneself in the slow pace of historic East Texas for a truly amazing adventure will certainly be exhilarating .
texasstaterailroad . net