Riding the Rails – West Virginia

An early morning departure has you beginning your journey to wild and beautiful West Virginia with a leisurely drive through the Allegheny Mountains. Arrive at your hotel, where you will check into your rooms. Dinner tonight will be at a local restaurant, followed by time for you to relax and enjoy the beauty of the area. (D)

Enjoy breakfast then depart for a fun-filled day of “riding of the rails” through the beautiful countryside. Climb abord the Cass Scenic Railroad and begin the long haul to Bald Knob. Panoramas of the lofty Appalachians become more beautiful as the train climbs higher and higher. Passengers suddenly realize they are entering a completely different world, mainly because of the change in trees, flowers and atmosphere. By climbing from Cass to Bald Knob on Back Allegheny Mountain, you have made the equivalent to an 800 mile trip to Canada in climate because of the higher altitude. Here are found spruce trees, snowshoe hares and other plants and animals typical in the far north. The rustic overlook affords one of the most awesome, overwhelming spectacles in the east. A “King of the Road” hobo lunch will be provided to enjoy on your ride as well. A ride on the Cass Scenic Railroad is an unforgettable experience. At the conclusion of the train tour, your group will enjoy a chance to stop at the Rail & Trail Store before departing for dinner and an evening of entertainment. (B,L,D)

Following breakfast, you will depart for a visit to Blackwater Falls State Park. The park features a spectacular waterfall plunging 63 feet into the canyon below. It offers an opportunity for some awesome pictures. Afterwards, depart for a visit to the Seneca Caverns. The caverns contain an abundance of flowing stone, gleaming creamy white stone that looks like a rock waterfall. The build up of minerals from this steady flow of water builds beautiful monuments of stone that is as breathing as the mountain scenery above ground. Some of the various formations you will see include stalagmites, stalactites, columns, travertine, rim, stone and cave coral. This evening, you will enjoy dinner in Elkins area. (B,D)

After breakfast, check out and depart for home with lasting memories of your rail trip to West Virginia. (B)