Page 4 - Explore Arkansas May 2016

4H EXPLOREARKANSAS
SUBMITTED PHOTO
The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad offers a scenic, round-trip excursion between Springdale and Van Buren. After arriving in Van Buren, passengers can shop and dine in the city, or take an additional round trip to Winslow.
RIDE THE RAILS Passenger-train excursions transport
travelers through time
BY SARAH DECLERK
SPECIAL SECTIONS WRITER
Railroads once moved people and cargo across Arkansas, but today travelers are more likely to fly or drive to their destinations. However, a few outings in the state allow passengers to experience the magic of train travel.
“There’s just a little romance in the rails,” said Brenda Rouse, passenger- train operations manager for Arkansas & Missouri Railroad.
In addition to transporting freight, A&M offers an eight-hour round trip through the Boston Mountains between Springdale and Van Buren, she said. Passengers can dine and shop in Van Buren, or they can take a round trip to Winslow during the layover, she added.
While they travel, passengers can learn about the railroad’s history, freight operations and vintage cars, which were built during the 1920s through ’50s, as well as the towns along the route, she said.
A&M will celebrate its 30th anniversary in September, she said. According to the company’s website, the tracks were constructed in the 1880s as part of the Frisco Railway system.
Passengers should bring their cameras, Rouse said, because the scenic jaunt includes several high trestles and a quarter-mile tunnel, and passengers may see wildlife such as deer and eagles during the journey.
“You get to kick back and relax, and just kind of enjoy the views and visit
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