Quick Details
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
BOARDING ADDRESS:
12363 CASS ROAD
CASS, WV 24927
This train ride is historic, authentic and a spectacular trip to the past! An absolute delight for families – adults and kids alike! See wondrous sights of the mountains as you hop on a steam powered train in Cass, WV! Climb the lower slopes of Cheat Mountain along Leatherbark Creek. Stop at Whittaker Station, surrounded by green meadows and scenic countryside.
Trip Summary
Whittaker Station – 4 mile, approximately 2 hr. Round – trip Excursion
Departing the Cass depot at either 11:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m., the trip to Whittaker Station takes two hours for the eight-mile round trip. Passing the water tower and machine shop, the railroad begins to climb lower slopes of Cheat Mountain along Leatherbark Creek. The train then zigzags through two switchbacks, the engines alternately pushing then pulling passenger cars because the grade is so steep. After passing the entrance to Cass Cave, the railroad levels off for the stop at Whittaker Station, surrounded by green meadows and fine views of the countryside. There is a cool, shady picnic grove with tables where excursionists may rest and enjoy the scenery.
Whittaker Station is the location of an authentic logging camp recreated by volunteers of the Mountain State Railroad & Logging Historical Association, passengers will have a 30 minute layover to enjoy the views.
The Cass Scenic Railroad travels over the same line built in 1901 to haul lumber to the mill in Cass. The steam locomotives are the same Shay locomotives used in Cass during that time for more than a half-century. Many of the passenger cars are old logging cars that have been refurbished for passengers.
Cass is the home to the world’s largest fleet of geared Shay locomotives. Five Shays, one Heisler, and one Climax reside here. The legendary turn-of-the-century Shay, #5 has been chugging up Cheat Mountain for nearly 119 years, making it one of the oldest engines in continuous service on its original line, and the oldest operable Shay in existence!
If notice of cancellation is made prior to 48 hours before departure, we will be able to issue a 90% monetary refund (booking fees are non-refundable). If cancellation is made within 48 hours before departure, there will be no monetary refund. However, you may reschedule at any time for another date in the current season. Gift cards can also be issued for the full ticket amount (minus booking fees) at any time and will not expire. If you paid with only a credit card, self-cancellation is available via the “View Online” link in your booking confirmation email. If you paid with a gift card, please contact a Mountain Rail WV customer service representative at 304-636-9477 to cancel. Send all general reservation inquiries to [email protected].
The Whittaker Station train features open-air cars (they have roofs but are open on the sides) and seating is at traditional wooden benches. When booking, you will choose a car on the train which will be your car assignment on the day of your trip (Car A is closest to the engine while Car E is farthest away from the engine). Once aboard your assigned car, you will then choose your own seats. THE TRAIN RUNS RAIN OR SHINE! Jackets/layers are highly recommended during cooler weather. If anyone in your party is sensitive to loud noises, ear plugs are also recommended.
We DO NOT allow pets on any of our excursions. Service animals which are required due to a disability are allowed.
The Whittaker Station train contains one car (D) that is wheelchair accessible. All other cars are not accessible.
* Taxes/fees are not included in ticket prices. Rates, times, and dates are subject to change. Fall rates apply to every departure starting in mid-September through the end of October.
Advanced online reservations are recommended to guarantee seating.