Enjoy outdoor adventures and fall foliage at Cass
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park‘s incredible train ride and scenic views make it one of the most iconic locations in West Virginia. If you’ve never been to Cass or want to relive memories of a past trip, now is a great time to visit because there’s nothing quite like Cass during fall foliage season. Peak color comes around the last few weeks of September. Here’s everything you need to know to plan a trip this fall.
Featured Activities at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
The main attraction at Cass is a 4.5-hour long train ride to an overlook at the top of Bald Knob, the third highest point in West Virginia. This leisurely train ride is a great way to relax and see the beauty of West Virginia’s mountains and forests during fall foliage season. Train rides are available Tuesday through Sunday and during special events throughout the year. To view a schedule and purchase train tickets, visit mountainrailwv.com.
Train rides and scenic views aren’t the only reason Cass is one of the most visited parks in West Virginia. This park is also full of history. The town of Cass is mostly unchanged since its founding in 1901 as a company town for loggers. Learn more about trains and the park’s past at the Cass Historical Museum, one of America’s only authentic lumber railroading museums. The museum is open daily, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Exhibits are free and guided tours are available.
Featured Trails at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
If you want to hit the trails during your visit to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, you can hike the nearby Greenbrier River Trail. This 78-mile-long former railroad bed is one of West Virginia’s most popular hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. The Greenbrier River Trail is accessible near the front porch of the Cass Company Store. Download a trail map and plan your hiking adventures today! And remember to leave no trace behind.
The Greenbrier River Trail passes through some of West Virginia’s most remote areas, several small towns, crosses 35 bridges, goes through two tunnels and provides many breathtaking views. The Greenbrier River Trail is one of 50 Millennium Legacy Trails in the United States, and was rated one of the top 10 hiking trails in the country by Backpacker Magazine. Part of the Greenbrier River Trail lies within a National Radio Quiet Zone, so be prepared for no cellphone service.
Places to Stay at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
One of the best ways to experience the historic charm of Cass is by staying in one of the park’s Company Houses. These houses are available to rent all year and come in various configurations that accommodate two to 14 people. Houses are really popular during the fall foliage season, so you’ll want to book an overnight trip as far in advance as possible. Click here to view rates and availability.
Recommended Itinerary
Need help planning your trip to Cass? Whether you come for the day or stay for a weekend or longer, here are a few recommended activities you can enjoy.
Day One
- Arrive early and eat breakfast at the Last Run Restaurant.
- Take a tour of the historic town of Cass.
- Visit the Cass Historic Theatre to watch a documentary about Cass. Morning screenings are available at at 10 and 11 a.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
- Ride the train to the top of Bald Knob at noon.
- Return to Cass at 4:30 p.m. and eat dinner at the Last Run Restaurant.
- Spend the night in a Cass Company House.
Day Two
- Hike or ride your bike on the Greenbrier River Trail. Bike and e-bike rentals available.
- Eat lunch at the Last Run Restaurant.
- Shop at the Cass Company Store and see the world largest candy train.
- Enjoy ice cream from the Company Store soda fountain.
Pro-Tip for Getting the Most Out Of Your Trip to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
It can get chilly at the top of Bald Knob. Sometimes it’s 10-15 degrees colder at the top. So, make sure you dress in layers or buy a blanket at the Cass Company Store to help you stay warm during your train ride.
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