This Epic Train Ride In Kentucky Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience

If you have never taken a train ride, it can be a journey filled with breathtaking scenery and memorable moments. The route and ride itself varies according to company, but each one offers a unique experience. The Big South Fork Scenic Railway is one epic train ride in Kentucky that comes with quite the reputation. It offers several different train rides, each one with a unique form of entertainment that might surprise you. Big South Fork takes railway enthusiasts on a magical journey through some of the most beautiful parts of the state.

Here are 9 reasons this is one epic train ride in Kentucky:

9. This train has history.

There was 30,000 acres of thick timberlands purchased in 1902 in this southern Kentucky area. Not long afterwards, coal was discovered and the Stearns Coal and Lumber Company was established.

8. The train helped the community grow and evolve, even today.

The community had over 18 coal and lumber camps, with over 2,200 people living and working there. A train became a necessity and the Kentucky & Tennessee Railway complied with steam engines, stretching over 25 miles of track. Today, you can find the train at 66 Henderson Street in Stearns.

7. South Fork Santa Express.

This is a special event that will be held on November 26th, December 3, 10, and 17 at 3:00, 5:00 and 7:00 pm. Passengers will kick off the holiday season with caroling and cheer. All passengers will receive a fee gift and prices range from $15.50 per child to $25.25 for adults.

6. A Trail Town Christmas.

Starting on November 26th until December 17th, train enthusiasts can enjoy weekend excursions on Saturdays. The events vary according to date, but all promise loads of fun with gorgeous scenery, historic tours and entertainment for all ages.

5. Moonshine Unlimited.

This is another entertaining excursion you can enjoy. You have three different events, starting with the food at the renowned Whistle Stop. It features a lovely tour of the area along with some of the best wine, food and spirits in the region. At 7:30, you take a 90 minute trip through beautiful Kentucky, while being entertained with the lore of local moonshiners. After the train ride, Big South Fork takes you to Cumberland Falls, for a chance to see the rare moonbow at the falls. Overall, this is one entertaining journey.

4. Zombie Train.

This is more of a Halloween event that takes place on October 22nd. Passengers are encouraged to dress in their zombie finery and prepare for a night time excursion that lasts 1.5 hours. This is a creepy, cool and very unique fall adventure that only costs $10.50 per child and $20.50 per adult.

3. Camping Trips.

The BSFSR also offers trips that take you to destinations like Blue Heron and pick you up the next day. This gives outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to camp out and enjoy the beautiful nature they see during the ride on the rails. They offer two different packages, the Rails to Trails and the Rails to Rivers, which both offer gorgeous, scenic locations in which to camp.

2. Banjo Boogie Express.

This is one of the most entertaining and authentic train rides you can enjoy with Big South Fork. Passengers will be entertained by good, ole’ fashioned banjo Bluegrass Music throughout their 1.5 hour journey through scenic Kentucky. You will also be served a mouthwatering meal of pulled pork BBQ, coleslaw, tator salad, baked beans and a dessert. Tickets are $17.50 per child and $37.50 per adult.

1. Blue Heron Ghost Train.

The Blue Heron Mine was one of the most productive in the 1930s, but it was abandoned in 1962. The train makes a stop at the preserved camp and riders can take a brief tour of the site. The buildings have recorded accounts as told by those who once lived in the community, so you hear their tales in their own words.

Thankfully, my Father worked for L&N and I enjoyed a few short trips around the station in my youth. It was a magical experience. The Big South Fork Scenic Railway is quite a bit different than a jaunt around the train yard though. It is a local favorite and considered to be an epic train ride in Kentucky. When it comes to variety, quality and price, you can’t beat Big South Fork. There are other options, and you can read about alternative train rides in Kentucky here.