Train Service

Purpose

Passenger rail service refers to the transportation of passengers by train, sometimes also referred to as subways in high density cities like Boston or New York, intercity trains, or commuter rail/trains like Amtrak. It involves the operation of trains specifically designed and equipped to carry people from one destination to another. These services typically include scheduled routes with designated stops, ticketing systems, and various classes or accommodations for passengers. Trains offer an alternative mode of transportation to cars, buses, and airplanes and contribute to sustainable transportation options, reduce traffic congestion, and provide a convenient and often scenic way for people to travel.

Passenger Rail Service in New Hampshire

Amtrak provides two passenger rail services that New Hampshire residents can access:

The Amtrak Downeaster makes five round-trips daily between Brunswick, Maine and Boston, Massachusetts serving a total of 12 communities in three states along a 143-mile corridor including stops in Dover, Durham, and Exeter.

The Amtrak Vermonter provides service between Washington, DC and St. Albans in northern Vermont with stops in Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York City and Washington, DC. New Hampshire residents can access this train at Claremont Junction as well as Vermont communities in the Connecticut Valley.

How it Works

The Downeaster is close to those living in southern New Hampshire while the Vermonter is closer to those living near the border between New Hampshire and Vermont, but these routes do not connect directly. The best way to plan your trip is to go to the official Amtrak Downeaster or Amtrak Vermonter website. Once there you can compare routes, select travel dates, determine the cost of the trip, and purchase your ticket. Don’t forget to figure out how you will get to the train station. If you are driving to the station you need to know if there is commuter parking and any cost or limitations for that service. If you need some form of public transportation, we suggest you use our transportation database and NH Trip Planner to find services that might work for you.

Fun Fact

There are approximately 443 miles of active railroad in New Hampshire. The state is the largest railroad owner with over 200 miles of active line, purchased to preserve freight service to industry or promote tourism and economic development. Eight (8) freight railroads operate in the state. Tourist excursion railroads also make an important contribution to the state’s rail infrastructure, keeping the state-owned railroad lines open and maintained and playing a key role in the tourism industry. [Source: NH DOT]

A Way Cooler Fun Fact

Railroads in the United States were responsible for establishing “train ambulances” and the construction of “railroad hospitals” adjacent to rail corridors. Isn’t it strange that in the 21st Century transportation is a top barrier to healthcare? Public-Community Transportation can lead the way once again!