9 West Virginia Train Rides That Show Off The State’s Best Fall Colors
When autumn sweeps across the Mountain State, few experiences rival the simple joy of watching fiery reds, blazing oranges, and shimmering golds rush past the window of a historic train.
West Virginia’s rugged landscapes become a living canvas in fall, and I’ve spent years chasing that fleeting beauty across its valleys and ridges. These train rides offer more than just transportation—they provide front-row seats to one of nature’s grandest performances.
From steep climbs that crest mountain ridges to gentle riverside routes winding through quiet hollows, these nine journeys reveal why West Virginia is truly a leaf-peeper’s dream destination.
1. Cass Scenic Railroad — Nature’s Vertical Gallery
My jaw dropped the first time I rounded that bend on the Cass Scenic Railroad. The ancient steam locomotive huffed and puffed as we climbed to Bald Knob, West Virginia’s third-highest point.
The open-air cars let you feel the crisp mountain air while surrounded by a kaleidoscope of autumn hues. Sugar maples flash brilliant orange against deep evergreen backdrops.
What makes this ride magical is how it conquers steep grades that once served logging operations. From Whittaker Station to the summit, each mile reveals a different palette of fall splendor that photographers dream about capturing.
2. Greenbrier Express — River Valley’s Secret Canvas
Last October, I boarded the Greenbrier Express with low expectations. Boy, was I wrong! This newer excursion connecting Cass to Durbin follows the gentle Greenbrier River through secluded wilderness that few roads reach.
The hybrid steam/diesel journey moves at a perfect pace for absorbing autumn’s masterpiece. Yellow poplars reflect in the river’s surface, creating double the visual impact.
Unlike the steep mountain routes, this valley passage offers a different kind of fall beauty. Wildlife sightings increase in autumn too – I spotted three deer and a fox during my ride, all framed by nature’s most vibrant seasonal backdrop.
3. New Tygart Flyer — Forest Immersion Experience
The diesel-powered New Tygart Flyer became my autumn tradition three years ago. This 4-hour round-trip from Elkins plunges through remote wilderness that transforms into a fiery tapestry come October.
What makes this journey special is the High Falls of Cheat – a magnificent waterfall surrounded by autumn splendor. The train actually stops here, allowing passengers to disembark and snap photos of water cascading through color-drenched forests.
I recommend grabbing a seat on the right side heading out for the best views. The climate-controlled cars make this comfortable even on chilly days, though I prefer the open-air gondola car for unobstructed photography.
4. West Virginia Central — History Through Colorful Corridors
Riding the West Virginia Central through the Monongahela National Forest feels like time travel with a seasonal twist. The heritage diesel locomotives pull vintage coaches through tunnels and across trestles that once served coal and timber industries.
Fall transforms this historical journey into something magical. The train winds through narrow valleys where sunlight filters through golden canopies, creating an almost ethereal glow.
My favorite segment runs along Shavers Fork, where the tracks hug the water so closely you can almost touch the colorful reflection. The knowledgeable conductors share fascinating railroad history while you’re mesmerized by Mother Nature’s annual art exhibition.
5. Potomac Eagle — The Trough’s Autumn Showcase
Eagles soaring above flaming maple trees – that’s the unforgettable scene awaiting on the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad. This Eastern Panhandle treasure cuts through “The Trough,” a dramatic river gorge that bursts with color.
Unlike the mountain routes, the Potomac Eagle offers a more intimate autumn experience. The narrow passage concentrates fall’s intensity, with towering hillsides creating a natural amphitheater of color.
Bring binoculars! The train’s slow pace through this secluded canyon provides perfect wildlife spotting opportunities. I’ve counted seven bald eagle sightings on a single autumn trip, their white heads stark against the backdrop of crimson and amber foliage.
6. Cheat Mountain Salamander — Wilderness Explorer’s Dream
My heart raced with anticipation as we boarded the vintage coaches of the Cheat Mountain Salamander. Named for an endangered amphibian native to these forests, this specialized excursion tackles some of West Virginia’s most remote terrain.
The journey climbs through dense hardwood forests where fall colors seem to intensify with elevation. Rustic logging camps and abandoned settlements appear like ghosts amid the autumn spectacle.
What distinguishes this ride is the sense of wilderness immersion. Cell service disappears as you penetrate deeper into Cheat Mountain’s colorful domain. The rhythmic clickety-clack becomes your soundtrack as panoramic vistas of fall’s transformation unfold around every curve.
7. Mountain Explorer Dinner Train — Gourmet Views
Sipping wine while watching sunset ignite autumn hillsides? Pure magic on the Mountain Explorer Dinner Train! This elegant evening excursion from Elkins combines fine dining with fall’s visual feast.
The experience feels deliciously indulgent. White tablecloths and china set against picture windows framing nature’s most vibrant season create an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and cozy.
Though primarily a culinary journey, the routes overlap with scenic corridors used by daytime trains. The difference? Evening light bathes the foliage in golden hues, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting colors differently than morning rides. My tip: request a table on the left side for the best views heading out.
8. Cass to Spruce — Alpine Color Adventure
The special extension from Cass to Spruce feels like discovering a secret autumn wonderland. Operating on limited schedules, this journey takes the standard Cass experience and pushes deeper into the highlands where fall arrives earliest.
Spruce was once the highest railroad town east of the Rockies. Today, only ghostly remnants remain, but the elevation provides spectacular autumn vistas that stretch for miles.
Bundle up for this one! The mountain air turns brisk by late September, but that chill triggers the most vibrant color transformations. I’ll never forget watching my breath fog in the crisp air while surrounded by a sea of crimson, gold and orange stretching across the undulating Appalachian ridgelines.
9. Whittaker Station Express — Family-Friendly Fall Immersion
Sometimes the perfect fall experience comes in smaller packages. The Cass to Whittaker Station trip packs all the autumn magic of longer journeys into a family-friendly 2-hour adventure that won’t test younger travelers’ patience.
My niece and nephew squealed with delight as we chugged through tunnels of golden beech trees. The shorter duration doesn’t sacrifice scenic quality – you’ll still climb over 1,500 feet through dense forests ablaze with color.
Whittaker Station itself offers a perfect midway break with its recreated logging camp and picnic area. We brought hot chocolate in thermoses to sip while surrounded by mountain splendor, creating memories that outshine any digital entertainment my kids are usually glued to.