The Van Buren to Winslow excursion is the best short train ride in the area. It is a three-hour, 70-mile round trip through the Boston Mountains. This guide is independent; the railroad operates and sells it.
What you see
Three valley trestles, hardwood forest, creek hollows and the Winslow tunnel, 1,700 feet long.
Where to board
The city's tourism office listings for past rides give the Old Frisco Depot, 813 Main Street, Van Buren. The railroad's own page does not specify the boarding point, so confirm it when you book.
Cars
Silver Feather dome guests stay in the dome the whole ride, with a downstairs dining area and lounge, and lunch is included. Premium guests ride in The Explorer or The Spirit of Arkansas, with lunch. Coach is the budget option, with snack trays at booking.
Build the afternoon
Park near the depot, ride, then walk Main Street. The Drennen-Scott house is free when it is open, and Fort Smith's National Historic Site and the Marshals Museum are a short drive across the river.
Practical
Premium and dome tickets need 48 hours' notice. Online reservations carry a nonrefundable 6 percent fee. Senior (65 and older), military, AAA, AARP and group rates exist; for the published caboose fares on this route see our tickets and prices guide.