In response to posts on another forum and several personal inquiries, I just got off the phone with a VRS spokesman concerning the Green Mountain Flyer operations out of Bellows Falls, Vermont this year. There has been much confusion concerning the GMF operation this year--much of it perpetuated by the railroad itself. There are TWO printed versions of the VERMONT SCENIC TRAIN RIDES 2010 brochure plus the current website showing dates for Friday's in May through October 15th--and this is incorrect information.

According to the VRS spokesman, the Friday dates for operation are contingent upon tour groups being under contract for a given dates--and a lot of groups have already cancelled. A posting on the Bellows Falls ticket office shows the following Friday's at 11:00 A. M.: June 4; June 18; June 25; July 16; July 25--plus Saturday July 31 as part of Rockingham Old Home Days (special trains as shown in brochure and website). Also, the school trip on May 21st at 11:00 will be open to the public. The spokesman said those dates "should be safe". According to the spokesman, the VRS passenger department is in a "transition period" and they hope to update their website with current information soon--so hopefully GMF dates will be added or subtracted as information becomes available. (The passenger department staff has been relocated to White River Jct.--there's no longer VRS passenger department personnel in Bellows Falls except on operating days.)

The bottom line is: if you're heading to Bellows Falls to catch the GMF this year, its best to call ahead a day or two in advance to confirm it'll be running on a given date. You can call the railroad toll free at 1-800-707-3530.

Frederick G. Bailey

Thank you, sir!

Stephen