History
The EthanAllen Express began service onJuly11996 as a joint venture between Amtrak and the State of Vermont. Named after the 18thcentury revolutionary war hero Ethan Allen, the train was created to restore intercity passenger rail service between New York City and Rutland, Vermont after a 25year hiatus. Its inaugural run was celebrated with a ribboncutting ceremony in Rutland and a special Heritage Day event in Albany.
Originally, the service operated three times per day in each direction, using Amtraks Amfleet coaches hauled by GE P40DC locomotives. The early years were marked by strong community support and modest ridership growth, which encouraged the state to increase funding for additional daily trips and upgraded equipment.
In 2005, the train received a major upgrade with the introduction of the newer AmfleetII cars, offering improved seating and climate control. A short cabin on the train was also added that allowed passengers to bring bicycles and small luggage without a surcharge.
Throughout its existence, the EthanAllen Express has been a symbol of regional cooperation, linking the economic corridors of the Hudson Valley, the Champlain Valley, and the Green Mountains.
Route & Schedule
The EthanAllen runs a 272mile corridor from Penn Station in New York City to Rutland, Vermont, stopping at 14 stations along the way. The principal stops are:
- New York,NY Penn Station
- White Plains,NY
- New Haven,CT
- Stamford,CT
- Springfield,MA
- AlbanyRensselaer,NY
- Bennington,VT
- Manchester,VT
- Rutland,VT (terminus)
Typical weekday service includes three northbound departures from New York (6:00am, 10:30am, and 4:30pm) and three southbound returns from Rutland (7:45am, 12:15pm, and 6:00pm). Travel time between New York and Rutland averages 5hours and 30minutes, depending on track conditions.
All stations are wheelchairaccessible, and ticket agents are present at larger stops (New York, Albany, and Rutland). Smaller stations rely on onboard ticketing or the Amtrak mobile app.
OnBoard Experience
The EthanAllen Express is designed for comfort on a mediumdistance journey. Key features include:
- Coach Class: 2by2 seating with generous legroom, reclining seats, and individual reading lights.
- Business Class: Slightly larger seats, extra recline, complimentary bottled water, and priority boarding.
- Free WiFi: Powered by a satellite backhaul system; speed varies but is adequate for email and basic browsing.
- Power Outlets: Available at each seat in both Coach and Business.
- OnBoard Caf: The caf car offers hot beverages, snacks, and a limited selection of sandwiches and salads sourced from local New York and Vermont vendors.
- Pet Policy: Small dogs and cats may travel in a carrier for a modest fee, reflecting the trains familyfriendly atmosphere.
Because the route traverses scenic countryside, many passengers bring a window seat to enjoy views of the Hudson River Valley, the Adirondack foothills, and the glacial lakes of Vermont. The trains large panoramic windows and lownoise suspension make it a popular choice for photographers and birdwatchers.
Tickets & Fares
Amtraks standard fare structure applies, with discounted rates for seniors (65+), youth (1225), military personnel, and passengers with a valid Vermont VermontVIA rail pass. As of 2024, typical oneway prices are:
- New YorkAlbany: $25 (Coach), $40 (Business)
- AlbanyRutland: $30 (Coach), $45 (Business)
- Full New YorkRutland: $55 (Coach), $80 (Business)
Roundtrip tickets receive a 10% discount when purchased at least 14 days in advance. Group bookings of ten or more qualify for an additional 5% off.
Tickets can be purchased online, via the Amtrak mobile app, at station ticket counters, or by phone. For lastminute travelers, a standby seat is often available on the next scheduled train, subject to space.
Future Plans & Developments
Vermont and New York transportation agencies have outlined several initiatives to enhance the EthanAllen Express:
- Increased Frequency: A proposal to add a fourth daily roundtrip by 2028, improving morning and evening options for commuters.
- Electrification Feasibility Study: Assessing the potential to electrify the segment between New York and Albany, which would reduce emissions and improve acceleration.
- Station Upgrades: Modernizing the AlbanyRensselaer and Rutland stations with better waiting areas, digital displays, and expanded bicycle parking.
- Tourist Packages: Partnerships with local hotels and attractions to bundle rail tickets with lodging, ski passes, and fall foliage tours.
Community groups continue to advocate for an extension of service northward from Rutland to Burlington, a move that would create a direct, coasttocoast rail corridor linking New York City with Lake Champlains largest city.
Whether youre commuting, visiting family, or exploring the charm of New Englands Green Mountains, the EthanAllen Express offers a comfortable, scenic, and affordable way to travel.
