The Amtrak Berkshire Flyer is one of Amtrak’s most relaxing seasonal trains, connecting New York City with the Berkshires for weekend getaways filled with mountain views, charming small towns, summer events, and scenic Hudson River vistas.
If you’ve ever wanted to avoid the hassle of driving and let someone else handle the journey, this train service is a convenient option. You can depart on Friday, enjoy a weekend exploring the Berkshires, and return on Sunday, all without worrying about traffic or parking.
The Berkshire Flyer is a seasonal weekend service that operates during the summer travel season.
2026 Update: This seasonal passenger rail service begins Friday, June 12, and runs on Fridays and Sundays through Sunday, September 19. You can make reservations now till September 19.
In this guide, I will explain how the Berkshire Flyer operates, what to expect while on board, and how to plan your trip effectively once service resumes.
Berkshire Flyer at a Glance
- Status: Running from June 12 to September 19, 2026, on Fridays and Sundays
- Route: New York City ↔ Pittsfield, MA
- Trip Time: About 5 hours
- Frequency: Weekend-only (seasonal service)
- Typical Season: Late June through early September
- Major Stops: NYC, Yonkers, Croton-Harmon, Hudson, Pittsfield
Amtrak Berkshire Flyer Seating Options
Coach Class (Most Common Option)
Amtrak’s coach class is the typical option for the Berkshire Flyer and suits most travelers on this relatively short trip.
The seats are spacious and recline further than typical airline seats, providing ample legroom for a comfortable four-hour journey. Each seat has a fold-down tray table, reading lights, and access to power outlets, so you can charge your phone or get some work done on the go.
Overhead storage compartments and luggage racks at the ends of the car mean you won’t have to worry about fitting your bags into tight spaces.
For a daytime trip like this, coach class is usually all you need.
Business Class (Extra Space + Perks)
Business class provides more legroom and a quieter atmosphere, making the journey more comfortable, especially during busy weekends.
Depending on the train setup, business class may also include:
- Complimentary non-alcoholic drinks
- Priority boarding at some stations
- A 25% bonus on Amtrak Guest Rewards points
If you want a little extra space or prefer a calmer ride, business class can be worth considering.
Kev’s Tips for Riding the Berkshire Flyer
After taking hundreds of Amtrak trips, I learned that preparation is essential—especially on a shorter, weekend-focused train like the Berkshire Flyer.
Here are a few simple tips to make your trip smoother:
Bring the Basics
Pack a water bottle and a few snacks, especially if you’re boarding at a smaller station or don’t want to rely entirely on the café car.
Pack Light (But Smart)
You don’t need much for a trip like this, but keep your essentials within easy reach.
- Phone charger and cables
- A few outfits for the weekend
- Headphones
- Any medications or must-have items
The lighter you pack, the easier it will be to board and move around the train.
Don’t Forget Power Access
Outlets are available on board, but they aren’t always in the most convenient places.
A short extension cord or power strip can make charging your devices much easier.
Download Entertainment Ahead of Time
Amtrak Wi-Fi can be inconsistent, especially outside major cities.
Before your trip, download:
- Movies or shows
- Music or podcasts
- Books or offline content
This is particularly useful when traveling with children.
Enjoy the Ride
This isn’t a flight, so you don’t have to stay seated the entire time.
Stand up, stretch your legs, and enjoy the Hudson River scenery. This is what makes this route special.
Bring your headphones if you plan to watch or listen. For more suggestions, check out my Amtrak entertainment post.
Add-ons for the Amtrak Berkshire Flyer
This train offers a few add-ons.
Bikes
Carry-on/Trainside bicycles: You can bring up to 50 lbs. Standard bicycle sizes apply. The maximum tire width is 2”. Check the link for details; bike service may not be available at all stations.
Pets
Amtrak allows dogs and cats weighing up to 20 pounds (combined weight of pet and carrier) on trips up to 7 hours. Spots may be limited, so
read Amtrak’s pet policy before booking.
If you have a service or comfort animal, read the Amtrak service animal policy before booking.
Luggage on the Amtrak Berkshire Flyer
This train does not offer checked baggage. You may bring two pieces of luggage and one personal item; all bags must weigh no more than 50 pounds. For more information, see Amtrak’s baggage policy.
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Amtrak Berkshire Flyer Schedule
If there are two times, the first is the arrival time, and the second is the departure time. If there is only one, it is a quick stop.
Click a station to view the services offered at that stop.
This schedule was last checked on July 17. This train only runs on Fridays and Sundays in both directions.
| Read Down 1233 | Communities Served | Sunday* Read Up 1246 | Miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11:06a | New York, NY (NYP) Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station | 7:51p | 0 |
| 11:28a | 11:29a | Yonkers, NY (YNY) | 7:21p | 7:22p | 14 |
| 11:46a | 11:48a | Croton-Harmon, NY (CRT) | 6:57p | 6:58p | 32 |
| 12:38p | 12:40p | Poughkeepsie, NY (POU) | 6:16p | 6:18p | 73 |
| 12:54p | 12:55p | Rhinecliff, NY (RHI) Kingston, NY | 6:01p | 6:04p | 88 |
| 1:14p | 1:17p | Hudson, NY (HUD) | 5:38p | 5:41p | 114 |
| 3:00p | Albany-Rensselaer, NY (ALB) | 4:25p | 5:14p | 141 |
| 3:10p | Pittsfield, MA (PIT) | 3:15p | 190 |
| Last Stop | Stations | Read Up | Miles |
Use this as a guide; check Amtrak.com or your e-ticket for exact times, as they may change.
Printable Amtrak Berkshire Flyer Schedule
Feel free to print or download this page from Amtrak. The Amtrak schedule lists extra trains, but I don’t think they are bookable.
Shuttle & Bus – From the train to where you want to go!
Several options exist to reach and depart from the station.
Public Buses
Berkshire Regional Transit Authority provides public bus services throughout the Berkshires. For route information, schedules, and more, contact the BRTA at (413) 499-2782.
Taxi and ride services
Pre-book a taxi to ensure availability when you arrive by train.
- County Rainbow Taxi– (413) 499-4300
- Transport The People – (800) 639-9605
- Abbott’s Limousine– (413) 243-1645
- Bianco’s Limousine – (413) 729-8294
Uber & Lyft
Lyft and Uber services are not widely available in Pittsfield or throughout the Berkshires. Unless you have made prior arrangements directly with a driver, don’t rely on these services to reach your final destination or return to the train station.
FAQ: Amtrak Berkshire Flyer
What is the Amtrak Berkshire Flyer?
The Amtrak Berkshire Flyer is a seasonal train that connects New York City to the Berkshires in western Massachusetts. The train usually runs on weekends during the summer.
Where does the Berkshire Flyer go?
The Berkshire Flyer operates between New York City and Pittsfield, Massachusetts, stopping at stations in New York and western Massachusetts, including Hudson and Albany-Rensselaer.
Does the Berkshire Flyer run year-round?
No. The Berkshire Flyer is a seasonal train that typically runs on Fridays and Sundays during the summer.
How long is the Berkshire Flyer trip?
Travel time may vary slightly by schedule, but the trip between New York City and Pittsfield generally takes about five hours.
Is food available on the Berkshire Flyer?
The Berkshire Flyer typically offers café service so that passengers can buy snacks, drinks, and light meals during the journey.
Does the Berkshire Flyer have Wi-Fi?
Amtrak Wi-Fi may be available, but it can get spotty at times. It’s advisable to download entertainment or work files before departure.
Can I bring luggage on the Berkshire Flyer?
Yes. Passengers may bring carry-on luggage on board. However, this train does not typically offer checked baggage service, so packing light can make the trip easier.
Is the Berkshire Flyer good for first-time Amtrak travelers?
Yes. The Berkshire Flyer can be a great option for beginners because it offers a direct trip from New York City to the Berkshires without the stress of driving or airport travel.
Which side of the train offers the best scenery on the Berkshire Flyer?
Many passengers enjoy views of the Hudson River when departing from New York City. Since the scenery changes throughout the journey and the train’s direction can vary, both sides can offer delightful views.
Can I take a bike on the Berkshire Flyer?
Bike service availability depends on the train’s equipment and space. Check Amtrak’s booking system when reserving tickets to confirm bike options for your travel date.
Final Thoughts on the Amtrak Berkshire Flyer
The Berkshire Flyer offers a relaxing way to escape New York City and discover one of the Northeast’s most picturesque summer destinations. Instead of worrying about traffic, tolls, and parking, you can sit back and enjoy the scenic ride through the Hudson Valley and into the Berkshires.
Because this is a seasonal service, plan ahead, especially during busy summer weekends and event seasons.
Whether you are trying Amtrak for the first time or seeking a simple weekend getaway, the Berkshire Flyer makes train travel easy and enjoyable.
Thank you for visiting Travels with Kev! If you appreciate beginner-friendly Amtrak guides, travel tips, and route overviews, consider subscribing to my free newsletter for updates and helpful rail travel information.
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Safe Travels,
Kev
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