New York, New York to Montreal, Quebec
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Autumn in the Great Dome Car
New York, New York 8:00am T-0:00
NIKON D7100
f/8
50mm
110
1/250 secDeparting New York
As the leaves began their vibrant transformation this autumn, I embarked on a picturesque journey aboard Amtrak’s Adirondack train, traveling from the bustling streets of New York City to the charming French-Canadian city of Montreal. Known for its scenic beauty, especially during the fall season, this route offers one of the most visually stunning rail experiences in the eastern United States.
Albany, New York 11:40am T+3:40
A Journey Through History and Nature
The Adirondack route has a storied history, connecting two vibrant cities while offering panoramic views of the Northeast’s natural splendor. It winds through the historic Hudson Valley, past the lush Adirondack Mountains, alongside the serene Lake Champlain, and finally across the Canadian border into the heart of Montreal. This rail line not only connects geographies but also cultures, weaving through small American towns and into the distinctly European ambiance of Quebec.
Ticonderoga, New York 2:00am T+6:00
Saratoga Springs and the Majesty of Lake Champlain
One of the early highlights of the trip was a brief stop at Saratoga Springs, known for its quaint town atmosphere and rich history in horse racing. However, the true spectacle began as we skirted the edges of Lake Champlain. Here, the fall colors were in full display, with fiery reds, vibrant oranges, and golden yellows reflecting off the tranquil waters—a sight that is quintessentially northeastern autumn.
Port Henry, New York 2:30pm T+6:30
Experience Aboard the Great Dome Car
A special feature of this journey was the inclusion of Amtrak’s Great Dome car, attached to the train at Albany. This vintage glass-topped car, now retired, offered unobstructed 360-degree views of the passing landscapes, enhancing the sightseeing experience. Traveling through the dome, watching the kaleidoscope of fall colors roll by, was nothing short of magical and gave this trip a unique charm that standard train rides seldom match.
Westport, New York 3:00pm (T +7:00)
Challenges Along the Way
Despite the visual feast, the journey was not without its challenges. The most notable was the customs stop at the Canadian border, which extended to an exhausting two hours. Once across the border, the pace of the train slowed to a crawl due to the very slow rails, making the final leg into Montreal tediously long. This part of the trip tested the patience of many a traveler, as the excitement of sightseeing gave way to the monotony of a prolonged journey.
Montreal, Quebec 10:00pm T+14:00
Yes for the Fall; No for the Border
The Amtrak Adirondack route, especially adorned with the fall foliage and the rare inclusion of the Great Dome car, was an unforgettable experience. It stands out as one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes east of the Mississippi, offering breathtaking vistas that are hard to find anywhere else. However, the slow train speeds and lengthy customs procedures make it less ideal for those looking for a quick and efficient way to travel between the United States and Canada.
For those considering this journey, I recommend it highly for a leisurely day trip upstate to places like Saratoga Springs or even further to Lake Champlain. However, for cross-border travel, be prepared for a long duration and consider it mainly if you value the journey itself over the convenience of arrival.