Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad
136 Brown St.
Middletown, PA 17057
(717) 944-4435
www.mhrailroad.com

Built on the towpath of the Union Canal (1827 - 1884), the M&H Railroad was completed in 1890, operating as part of the Reading system until 1976.

Visitors today can take a 90-minute round trip ride aboard 1920 vintage coaches. The trip begins at the Race Street Station in Middletown and proceeds to Indian Echo Caverns (click below for info) where visitors can disembark for a 45- minute tour.

The train passes through picturesque scenery along Swatara Creek, crossing a 35-foot high bridge and passing historic sites such as Horse Thief Cave, where horse thiefs hid their four-legged booty. The remains of a Canal Lock can be seen. A narrator relates the area's history while the train chugs along, pulled by a 1941 or 1955 GE Diesel. During special events a former Canadian National 2-6-0 Steam Locomotive might be on the job.

The trip is educational, not to mention pure fun. On the way back from Indian Echo an accordionist or banjo player will lead a sing-a-long of favorite songs. And passengers are invited to join the crew in performing the German Chicken Dance.

After the ride, or before, visitors can explore the rail yard and see a variety of equipment, including streetcars, a snowsweeper, a trolley freight car, a steam locomotive, and a wooden box car with link and pin couplers. The original Reading Company Freight Station, built in 1891, can be seen. A complimentary tour is given every day at 12:15 pm.

What a place for a birthday party! The train can handle up to 48 people.

Throughout the year M&H offers many special events that the entire family will enjoy. These include seasonal rides and activities, celebrations, and other events.

School Groups will have a great time here learning about local history and, if they go on to Indian Echo, getting a first hand geology lesson. While there are no formal programs, the trip is educational and is a great treat for elementary school children.

Groups must have 25 or more people for discount admission.