You’ll Absolutely Love A Ride On West Virginia’s Majestic Mountain Train This Summer

There's nothing better in the Mountain State than taking a beautiful scenic train ride. You can get a glimpse into the past while you ride the historic Cass Scenic Railroad through the mountains right here in West Virginia.

The train leaves from the station at the historic Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.

Here you'll find old company houses at the former company town of Cass. Your train will be pulled by a rare Shay locomotive.

The journey takes about 4.5 hours, with lunch served on board.

The open air cars give the chance to breathe in the fresh air and smell the smoke from the coal.

The train travels through dense forests...

...and up over Cheat Mountain.

There's a rest stop at Whittaker Station, where you'll have 30 minutes to walk around and stretch your legs.

Then the train continues on towards Balk Knob.

The train will stop here at the overlook where you'll get an unparalleled view of the valley below.

On a clear day you might even be able to see into Virginia.

Most people then go back the way they came, but you can also choose to camp in a caboose for the evening!

The caboose comes equipped with beds and a small kitchen and sleeps up to 5 people.

For more information about this trip, visit the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad website.

For another great train ride in West Virginia, take a look at the day trip of a lifetime on the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad. There's a good chance you'll spot a bald eagle on your journey!