This 3-Hour Train Ride Is The Most Relaxing Way To Enjoy Kentucky Scenery
There’s never a bad time to make plans to get out and experience the wondrous beauty of Kentucky, and there are many ways to do this. One of the best is a ride on the Big South Fork Scenic Railway, which is located in the small town of Stearns. There are a few different excursions to choose from, but the three-hour K&T Special is the ultimate experience and the most relaxing way to enjoy a scenic train ride in Kentucky. Prepare for splendor at this magical spot:
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Big South Fork Scenic Railway is a favorite Kentucky destination, located in stunning McCreary County.
Beginning in the 1830s, railroads became an important piece of Kentucky's development. They connected some of the state's most developed towns, and some railroads stretched into Ohio.
The railway offers a few different rides throughout the year, but the K&T Special, which runs from April through October, belongs on everyone’s bucket list.
Big South Fork Scenic Railway is a true treat throughout the year, and it has been enchanting riders since 1907. In the spring, the landscape absolutely comes to life. Summer brings a shimmering emerald covering to the earth, and fall allows the landscape to erupt in hues of gold and red.
If you've never visited the Big South Fork Scenic Area, you're in for a beautiful surprise. This region of Kentucky is unrivaled in its natural beauty, and there are many ways to experience it.
Train rides are absolutely enchanting, and they offer a unique way to connect with the early industrialization of our nation. Special rides like the Shades of Autumn: Fall Color Express will leave you in awe, whether you're a young child or simply a child at heart.
If you'd like to see it all from the comfort of a nostalgic train car, a ride with Big South Fork Scenic Railway is the perfect option. There’s no better time to start planning your adventure on the K&T Special excursion.
This area is overflowing with history. Coal was discovered in the region early on, and Stearns was established to serve as the heart of the area's mining industry. The Kentucky & Tennessee Railway stretched through the area, and it continued to utilize steam locomotives even after diesel became the preferred "mainstream" fuel.
The ride is a three-hour-long round-trip experience aboard one of the railway's exciting locomotives. The relaxing ride takes you through diverse landscapes and plenty of photo-worthy scenery.
Riders of all ages will find themselves enchanted by the beauty of The Mountain State. Take in the majesty of the Daniel Boone National Forest, and marvel at the splendor of scenic overlooks and vistas. Plan ahead, as you can purchase snacks or a Coal Miner’s Lunch on the ride.
The train will descend 600 feet into the gorge, chugging past mountain streams, lush vegetation, and scenic views. This is the only mountain train in Kentucky that provides this type of scenery.
Prepare to take a few pictures, because you'll want to brag about the scenery you see. Truly, this level of majesty is almost unbelievable.
At the halfway point, you'll make a stop at the historic Blue Heron Mining Community. This former coal mine is fascinating and offers even more views of the surrounding natural features.
This is offered during the April through October season. If you take a ride in November, expect to take a ride just to the gorge and back.
You'll then make the trip back to the station and back through the rugged land of the Big South Fork area. When planning a visit, be sure to visit the McCreary County website, to plan even more adventures.
This area is full of surprises. If you're an adventurous spirit, you'll surely feel right at home.
No matter the season, this train ride offers stunning views of the landscape as it changes from season to season. Start planning your visit and look forward to this scenic train ride that takes you through a naturally wondrous area of Kentucky.
The K&T Special train ride takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in The Bluegrass State, and this three-hour excursion is a relaxing way to enjoy a nice day in our state. Have you hopped aboard this 14-mile scenic train ride in Kentucky? What did you think? Share your experience with us in the comments!
You’ll find the Big South Fork Scenic Railway at 100 Henderson St., Stearns, KY 42647. For more information on the K&T Special, train schedules, ticket prices, and the Big South Fork Scenic Railway, visit its website.
And for more on the Blue Heron Mining Community, the stop along the ride, check out our previous article.
Are you fascinated by the charms of Old Kentucky? Harrodsburg is the oldest community in the state, dating back to 1774. The city originally existed in a rather hostile state, as indigenous tribes weren’t exactly welcoming to this early settlement.
What are the best train towns in Kentucky?
Want to feel like you’re standing inside a model train set? Communities like Midway, Ashland, and Bardstown will take you back in time.
What are the most unique train trips in Kentucky?
Craving a train day trip? Take My Old Kentucky Dinner Train or swing by the Kentucky Railway Museum!
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
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