Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Sets Date For Opening

The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is one of Portland's many treasures. It has turned out to be very successful, especially leading up to Christmas with its version of The Polar Express, which is pure fun for the whole family.

Now, the Maine Narrow Gauge is getting ready to open for the 2025 season.

Maine Narrow Gauge History

The Narrow Gauge started running trains in 1993, using the former Grand Trunk Railroad track that had stopped using the rails after an arsonist set fire to the Back Cove swing bridge in 1984.

It's called narrow gauge rail because the rails are closer together than standard rail. The locomotive and passenger cars aren't as wide as freight trains and passenger trains like the Amtrak Downeaster.

Narrow Gauge Was Forced to Close For Four Months

A developer building a new condo and hotel near the Narrow Gauge Railroad required the railroad tracks to be dismantled and moved closer to the waterfront along with the Eastern Promenade trail. It was only supposed to be a two-week closure, but it turned out to be three months. The railroad operates year-round, so this was a punch to the gut that they didn't deserve.

READ MORE: 10 Former Maine Railroad Stations Transformed into Unique Businesses and Homes

Opening Date Announced

After the three-month shutdown, because Portland apparently needs more condos on the water, the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is ready to open for train rides on Saturday, May 3, and Sunday, May 4.

Trains depart almost every hour, on the hour, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. No train will depart at 1 p.m. Get your tickets in advance by going to the Maine Narrow Gauge website.