The Cass Scenic Railroad is an authentic mountain logging line operating through the West Virginia forests over rails laid in 1901. Trains depart from Cass, a former lumber mill town, located on the Greenbriar River, and traverse two switchbacks and climb grades up to 11 percent on the journey to Whittaker and Bald Knob. Steam locomotives power all trains.
Choices
The trip from Cass to Bald Knob, offered once daily, is a 22-mile, 4.5-hour round-trip excursion that climbs through the Appalachians and features spectacular views from Back Allegheny Mountain, which is 4,880 feet high. If you’re looking for a shorter experience, take the 8-mile, 2-hour round trip to Whittaker Station, which climbs the lower slopes of Cheat Mountain along Leatherbark Creek. At Whittaker, where trains pause for water, there is a railroad logging camp.
When to go
The railroad operates from late May through October, with heavy visitation during the colorful autumn months. During the peak season, there are several daily departures from Cass. Special events like Rail Heritage Photography weekends are scheduled throughout the year.
Good to know
Cass is home to the world’s largest fleet of operating logging steam locomotives, including Shay, Heisler, and Climax locomotives. Cass is the only place where you can see all three types in regular operation.
Worth doing
Stay overnight in one of the Cass company houses that loggers and railroaders used starting in 1901. These restored two-story homes are spacious, with up to four bedrooms. All include bathrooms and showers, plus fully equipped kitchens, and linen service. Packages are available that include a ticket on the Bald Knob excursion and an overnight stay in a company house.
Don’t miss
The Parade of Steam is held in early June giving visitors the opportunity to view and photograph the railroad’s locomotive fleet at the same time.
Getting there
Located in eastern West Virginia, once off the Interstate, two-lane state and county roads are the rule. Route 66 becomes Main Street in Cass.
Location: 12363 Cass Road, Cass, WV
Phone: 304-636-9477
Website: casstrain.com
E-mail: ticketinfo@mountainrail.com
