Typically, when you envision a train, you’ll see a massive locomotive that’s loud, powerful, and passenger- or freight-friendly. Usually, passenger trains are equipped with cushioned seats and flawless window views… usually. Today, we’re going to take a look at a fall foliage train ride near Cleveland that’s a bit unconventional in the most magical way. Forget everything you know about train rides, because this one is so unique that it’s going to take some explaining. All aboard, because this adventure through the Northeast Ohio countryside is truly enchanting.

When fall foliage starts to show in Cleveland, the local parks offer a great place to embrace the colors of the season.
Erik Drost/Flickr
While many local parks are great, I especially enjoy visiting the Lake Metroparks. Located just a short drive away in Lake County, these parks encompass more than 8,100 acres. They show a different side of the Northeast Ohio landscape than Cleveland parks do, and one of the very best attractions is Penitentiary Glen Reservation. At Penitentiary Glen Reservation, autumnal hues seem to explode from the wide variety of trees.
Lake Metroparks Website
With 424 acres to explore, there's no shortage of beauty in the park. In fact, the park's odd name comes from its unique landscape. A gorge divides the park in half, and early area residents referred to it as a "penitentiary" or prison because its steep rock walls made climbing back out rather challenging. Today, naturalist-led hikes are the best way to explore that portion of the park, but the rest of its splendor is yours to explore.
However, there's something unusual about the sounds of this park... every so often, something not quite like birdsong breaks through the sounds of nature.
Lake Shore Live Steamers Website
Penitentiary Glen Reservation is home to the Lake Shore Live Steamers, a group that has celebrated live steam models since 1969. If you've never heard of the live steam hobby, you're in for a treat! It involves crafting and caring for train models that actually operate on steam power. Back in the day, the group used to take a portable track to public places to share their passion with locals.
Of course, the Lake Shore Live Steamers now have a permanent track in Penitentiary Glen Reservation.
Lake Shore Live Steamers/Facebook
Thousands of feet of track now stretch into the surrounding forests, and visitors of all ages love taking a ride. From the youngest riders to the oldest, it's amazing to see how camaraderie blooms around these fascinating little train cars.
Each year, circa 15 planned runs take place... and this train ride isn't quite like you might expect!
Lake Shore Live Steamers Website
As you can see, riders don't step into these trains. (Unless they're a Smurf or fairy, maybe.) To take a train ride, you simply pop a squat, keep your hands and feet in the ride at all times, and sit back and relax.
One of the most coveted events on the Lake Shore Live Steamers schedule is their annual fall run in October, which is paired with Halloween vibes and decorations to make the most unique experience imaginable.
Lake Shore Live Steamers Website
Known as the Magical Hoo-loween event, this experience has been going on since the 1980s. Tickets are required, and it always sells out fast... but there's more in store!
There's also a public event on the first Sunday in October that you can attend, and it's truly an experience to remember.
Lake Shore Live Steamers Website
This could be the most unique fall train ride you ever experience! The fun takes place on that first October Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m., so mark your calendar and plan to head out of Cleveland for some time in the countryside.
If you don't get a chance to experience the October runs, stay tuned for the December event!
Lake Shore Live Steamers Website
The Holiday Run is another incredible way to experience the seasonal landscape! Don't forget to connect with the Lake Shore Live Steamers on Facebook to keep tabs on their upcoming offerings.
And while the public train runs are undeniably fun for adults, they're especially magical for little ones.
Lake Shore Live Steamers/Facebook
To the kids and grandkids at the event, the train doesn't feel quite so tiny... in fact, it feels perfectly sized for them! The little ones in your family will never forget this experience.
And while you're in the park, you never know HOO you'll see!
Lake Metroparks Website
From avian residents to their mammalian neighbors, there's no shortage of cute critters out in Penitentiary Glen Reservation.
The autumnal landscape in the Lake Metroparks is irresistible.
Lake Metroparks Website

This stunning fall foliage train ride near Cleveland is an experience like no other! There’s a run coming up in December, too… weather permitting. If you miss this year’s events, don’t even stress. Just connect with the Lake Shore Live Steamers to keep their unique train rides on your radar! Happy fall, Clevelanders!

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Penitentiary Glen Reservation, 8668 Kirtland Chardon Rd, Kirtland, OH 44094, USA