Do You Know These Facts About West Virginia’s Historic Railroads?
West Virginia is home to two major scenic railroads: the Cass Scenic Railroad in Cass, known for its steam trains and mountain views, and the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad in Romney, which features bald eagle sightings along the Potomac River. Both provide unique experiences with different routes, dining options and historical aspects.
Discover Cass Scenic Railroad State Park!
The Cass Scenic Railroad’s history originated in 1901 as a logging railway for the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company and then later purchased by Mower Lumber before the timber industry declined and the operations ceased in 1960. The state of West Virginia acquired the line in 1963 and established Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, turning the historic logging railroad into a popular tourist attraction utilizing antique steam locomotives. The company town was also purchased and restored and the restored company houses are available for rent today.
Nestled in the mountains of West Virginia, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park offers excursions that transport you back in time and let you relive an era when steam-driven locomotives were an essential part of everyday life. Trips to Cass are filled with rich histories of the past, unparalleled views of a vast wilderness area and close-up encounters with the sights and sounds of original steam-driven locomotives.
The Cass Scenic Railroad is the same line built in 1901 to haul lumber to the mill in Cass. The locomotives are the same Shay locomotives used in Cass, and in the rain forests of British Columbia for more than a half-century. The passenger cars are old logging flat-cars refurbished and made into passenger cars.
Railroad Information
LOCATION – Cass, West Virginia | Visitors Center: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
Company Store (Winter Hours): 8 AM – 6 PM Sunday through Wednesday, and 8 AM – 8 PM Thursday through Saturday.
Scenic train rides operate from May through October and the park offers excursions Tuesdays through Sundays, but schedules vary.
Discover the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad!
The Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad’s history began with the South Branch Valley Railroad, established in 1978 by the state of West Virginia to operate a former B&O line. A 1989 public service study suggested a scenic excursion on the line, prompting the Romney Business and Professional Organization to launch efforts for a tourist train. In 1991, the Eagle Cañon Passenger Car Company began operating the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad from Wappocomo Station. The railroad provides scenic train excursions using the SBVR line, which is owned by the state’s West Virginia State Rail Authority.
Journey across rolling countryside to the remote and rugged Trough Canyon. Carved by the South Branch Potomac River, it is one of West Virginia’s very own “Grand Little Canyons.” George Washington referred to the canyon as “The Trough” after a surveying expedition in 1748. Later on the canyon was the scene of a bloody battle of the French and Indian War.
Discover scenic railroad adventures with our premier narrated West Virginia train tours, your gateway to nature, history and dining. Experience the comfort of our West Virginia railroad rides as you explore the heart of Appalachia. Choose from a range of excursions, seasons and classes of service to craft the perfect train journey for the whole family, combining historical exploration, wildlife encounters and exceptional dining experiences.
Railroad Information
LOCATION – Romney, West Virginia
Station office for booking reservations is open from Monday-Friday 9AM-4PM, Closed Saturday and Sunday
Scenic train rides operate from April through December
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Send Me UpdatesThis post was last updated on October 28, 2025