Cass Scenic Bald Knob Trip
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Scenic steam train ride through historic logging routes
Panoramic mountain and Appalachian wilderness views
Authentic vintage locomotives and refurbished passenger cars
Hobo-style lunch served onboard
The Cass Scenic Railroad offers a unique journey through history, following the same line built in the early twentieth century to transport lumber to the mill in Cass. The railroad features the original Shay locomotives that once operated in Cass and in the rainforests of British Columbia, preserved for over half a century. Many of the passenger cars are refurbished logging flat cars, giving visitors an authentic glimpse into the era of industrial railroading. Cass is renowned for having the largest fleet of geared Shay locomotives in the world, including several Shays, a Heisler, and a Climax. Among these, the legendary class C-80 Shay locomotive has been climbing Cheat Mountain for more than a century, making it one of the oldest engines still in continuous service on its original line. Riding this historic train is like stepping back in time, offering a rare opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, and craftsmanship of early logging railroads.
The excursion to Bald Knob is a breathtaking journey that ascends the slopes of Back Allegheny Mountain, reaching elevations that transform the climate and landscape. Passengers witness a striking change in flora and fauna, with northern species such as spruce trees and snowshoe hares appearing along the route. The panoramic views from the rustic overlooks are awe-inspiring, showcasing the vastness of the Appalachian wilderness and providing a remarkable contrast to the modern Green Bank Observatory in the valley below, home to the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope. A classic hobo lunch is served aboard the train, allowing guests to enjoy a simple meal while taking in the scenery. The combination of historic locomotives, majestic mountain vistas, and immersive natural beauty makes the Cass Scenic Railroad an unforgettable experience that delights history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families alike. This journey is more than a train ride—it is a passage through time and landscape, offering a memorable connection to both the past and the wild beauty of West Virginia.
The Cass Scenic Railroad offers a unique journey through history, following the same line built in the early twentieth century to transport lumber to the mill in Cass. The railroad features the original Shay locomotives that once operated in Cass and in the rainforests of British Columbia, preserved for over half a century. Many of the passenger cars are refurbished logging flat cars, giving visitors an authentic glimpse into the era of industrial railroading. Cass is renowned for having the largest fleet of geared Shay locomotives in the world, including several Shays, a Heisler, and a Climax. Among these, the legendary class C-80 Shay locomotive has been climbing Cheat Mountain for more than a century, making it one of the oldest engines still in continuous service on its original line. Riding this historic train is like stepping back in time, offering a rare opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, and craftsmanship of early logging railroads.
The excursion to Bald Knob is a breathtaking journey that ascends the slopes of Back Allegheny Mountain, reaching elevations that transform the climate and landscape. Passengers witness a striking change in flora and fauna, with northern species such as spruce trees and snowshoe hares appearing along the route. The panoramic views from the rustic overlooks are awe-inspiring, showcasing the vastness of the Appalachian wilderness and providing a remarkable contrast to the modern Green Bank Observatory in the valley below, home to the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope. A classic hobo lunch is served aboard the train, allowing guests to enjoy a simple meal while taking in the scenery. The combination of historic locomotives, majestic mountain vistas, and immersive natural beauty makes the Cass Scenic Railroad an unforgettable experience that delights history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families alike. This journey is more than a train ride—it is a passage through time and landscape, offering a memorable connection to both the past and the wild beauty of West Virginia.
- Scenic steam train ride to Bald Knob
- Stunning mountain and wildlife views
- Overlook with Green Bank Telescope sighting
- Onboard hobo lunch included
- Historic logging railroad experience
- Gratuities
$ 65
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Activity Provider: Mountain Rail West Virginia
Customer Reviews
Absolutely loved our Christmas train. The trains were warm and the food after was delicious! Their staff is fun and friendly. Highly recommend for all ages but especially if you have young kids.
We went here on a trip through WV because my wife's father used to take them here when she was a kid. The museum was very nice and even the tourist store had some neat items. We did not ride the train but I am sure that would be fun. The docent/information guy in the museum was very helpful. His name was Nathaniel (a young guy). I asked him a question and he had so much information and knowledge that we spent a long time speaking with him. He was also drawing an incredibly detailed drawing of a locomotive. He had a lot of talent. If you go there, don't just ignore the museum, spend some time. It was extremely interesting.
Our family had a wonderful day trip to the Cass Scenic Railroad. We opted for the four and a half hour trip to the top of Bald Knob mountain and back, and we were not disappointed with the beautiful views! The steam locomotives are truly an amazing relic from the past, and riding on one is a privilege you truly must experience firsthand to appreciate fully! To think of how many times these locomotives have transported hundreds of loggers and all of the logging products through the century up and down these same unforgiving mountains gives you a unique perspective for sure. Be sure to give yourself some extra time to check out the Cass Museum as they have some excellent railroad items as well some clothing from the period. The staff running the train did an amazing job with courteous and professional service. Many of the staff are career workers and their knowledge and skills are a treasure trove of historical facts. These guys were fun to watch work! For your trip planning, be sure to take extra clothes for warmth and protection and perhaps an umbrella or two. The cars, although covered, are open-air (no windows or doors). You WILL occasionally get engulfed with black smoke and soot (sometimes with small pieces of carbon still a bit hot) from the engine when the wind does not cooperate, and you will get a bit dusty/dirty (all part of a very cool and authentic experience). The closer you are to the front of the train, the more you'll have to deal with the smoke, soot, and loud steam vents and whistle (children may need ear protection), but the more you get to watch a real steamer in action. The seats are merely wood, so bring a cushion as it is a long ride. I HIGHLY recommend this experience for anyone that is in decent physical shape (you will have to go up and down steep steps to board and disembark at each stop). Do not expect luxury - that's not what this trip brings. It's a genuine, old-fashioned train ride from another time. 🚂🛤🚞
