- Steam Charters
- Event Information
Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway
Two days of photo opportunities in fall with a mixed freight on the two foot gauge.
This October, capture autumn color and mixed freight on a classic Maine narrow-gauge line.
Two days of fall photo opportunities on Maine’s historic 2-foot narrow gauge Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway, featuring a mixed freight consist operating amid peak autumn color.
Timed for mid-October, this charter is scheduled to coincide with the height of fall foliage in the region. While weather and color can never be guaranteed, this period historically offers some of the best conditions of the season.
Both days will feature a mixed freight train led by No. 9 operating over the 3.5-mile line in Alna, making use of the railroad’s rural scenery, historic infrastructure and compact narrow-gauge character.
To maintain safe operations and high-quality photo opportunities, participation is limited to approximately 20–25 photographers.
- Thursday, October 15, 2026
The first day will run from sunrise to sunset, with photography focused on a mixed freight train working the line throughout the day.
We’ll begin early to take advantage of first light and work a variety of locations as the sun moves, with short breaks built in as needed.
The day will conclude with a night photo session utilizing the WW&FR’s distinctive facilities, including the turntable, engine house and yard — offering rare after-dark opportunities unique to this railroad.
- Friday, October 16, 2026
The second day will run from early morning through late afternoon, again focusing on a mixed freight train operating in fall color. Depending on operating conditions, part of the day may feature a short passenger train in place of the freight consist.
As with the first day, we’ll plan movements to maximize favorable light and seasonal scenery. Some locations may be revisited, but each day will feature a different mix of setups and perspectives.
- Examples of WW&F Railway
Below are some examples from my winter visit to WW&F. Of course, our event will have different conditions!
All details are subject to change due to operating conditions on the host railroad. We reserve the right to change the schedule, dates, and/or rolling stock if needed.
Event Details
- Alna, Maine
- October 15-16, 2026
- $725 / person
- Limited to 25 participants.
Further details will be provided after registration.
Questions in the meantime? Please email Dak at: dak@steamcharters.com
If you prefer to pay via check, please mail a check or money order made payable to Dakota Group LLC to:
Dakota Group LLC
PO Box 35
Wildwood, Missouri 63040
Checks are not subject to the credit card processing fee. Checks will be cashed upon receipt by Dakota Group LLC.
Please include your name, email and phone number with your check and we will email confirmation upon receipt.
Edgecomb and Wiscasset offer a limited number of hotel options, including a Best Western. Additional lodging choices — such as Hampton Inn, Residence Inn and other national brands — are available in Bath, approximately 30 minutes from the railroad.
Portland International Jetport is the closest airport served by major airlines. Boston Logan International Airport is also an option, located approximately a three-hour drive from Alna.
On Friday, October 16, activities will conclude by approximately 3–4 p.m. to allow sufficient time for travel to the airport.
- This charter has a go/no go date of August 8, 2024.
- In the event the charter is canceled, a full refund (minus any credit card processing fees) will be refunded within 30 days of cancelation.
- All reservations are non-refundable after the go/no go date for the charter.
- If an engine is not operational for the event date, the event may continue with different motive power at the discretion of Dakota Group and the host railroad.
- We reserve the right to modify the event schedule, event dates or event offering at any time.
- Riders may be required by the host railroad and/or Dakota Group LLC to sign a liability waiver to participate in the event.
- We are not responsible for bad weather, delays or cancelations. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items, injuries, sickness or damages to personal equipment and loss of personal travel expenses.
- Due to the duration of this event, we do not recommend this experience for young children.
- Participants must be prepared to disembark and reboard train multiple times throughout the day. Participants should be prepared for rough terrain or uneven footing. Please wear sturdy shoes; hiking boots are recommended.
Photos shown above represent the railroad and may not be the exact photography location or motive power included in the charter.