The best fall foliage views in West Virginia can be seen on a scenic train ride through the state.

The countdown begins when the temperatures start to drop and leaves begin to change. It’s important to plan a trip quickly if you want to catch the vibrant red, yellow, and orange hues. You’ll also need to do some research on where you can find the most vibrant autumnal colors. If you are thinking of leaf-peeping, West Virginia has a few places that are above average. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve The Greenbrier Valley. The best way to experience the beauty of Greenbrier River Valley is by riding the ferry. Greenbrier Express.

Steam-powered scenic trains depart from Cass in West Virginia and snake through the Monongahela National Forest. They then take passengers 15 miles to Durbin. Expect to see river views, fall colors, and wildlife along the way. It is not uncommon to see wildlife, such as eagles, deer and moose, on the trip. Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad. “My favorite place is HostermanThe halfway point between Cass & Durbin. “A large beaver’s pond surrounds the tracks and waterfowl are often seen.”

Greenbrier Express offers more than just breathtaking views. The Greenbrier Express offers a chance to learn about history, as well as the opportunity to stretch out your legs. “All departures will be pulled by one our steam locomotives that are over 100 years old,” Scriptunas explains. At the Durbin half-way stop, passengers are served lunch as part of the ticket price. You can grab a coffee, smoothie or ice cream at the café after lunch. Simply Sweet Cafe Browse through the Rail & Trail Store for unique railroad souvenirs.”

Tickets and Schedule

The Greenbrier Express is available on certain days between May and October. However, Scriptunas says that you can come for a ride in the winter (you will just miss out on the fall foliage). “We are now offering Greenbrier Express weekends in winter beginning mid-January,” says Scriptunas. “These trips have become very popular in recent weeks, especially after the fresh snowfall.” The Cass to Durbin round trip train departs Cass around 10 am and returns at 3:30 pm.

Tickets can be bought online and prices vary depending on age and time of the year. Children, seniors and veterans can receive discounted tickets. Standard adult tickets for October 2025 are $93. Seating is available in both table-style and coach-style, and unlike other train rides, it’s possible to select your seat at the time of booking.

Scriptunas explains that many first-time riders ask which side of the train is best to ride. The answer is both, Scriptunas explains. “At halfway, the train is flipped for the return to Cass. Passengers on both sides get the same view.”

But he has one suggestion for getting the best view. “Ask the conductor on board for directions to the baggage car—the large, open doors on this car offer great views of the surrounding scenery,” he says.

Dress warmly if you are traveling on the Greenbrier Express during the winter or fall. Although the climate-controlled cars can be adjusted, the temperature can fluctuate quickly during the journey. This is why it’s important to dress warmly.

What to Do in Cass West Virginia

Cass is a great place to spend a weekend. You can do more than just ride the Greenbrier Express. Visit the nearby Green Bank Observatory Science Center Take a tour of the telescopes and take a stroll or ride a bicycle on the Greenbrier River TrailScriptunas recommends Cass as a starting point. He also recommends CW’s Corn Maze, which is located on Cass Road. It will be open on weekends between September 27 and October.

Cass is a great place for railway enthusiasts, as well as amateur historians. “Take a town tour before or after a train ride and see the sights. Cass Historical Museum “Discover the history of Cass Scenic Railroad,” says he. The museum is free to visit and open from Tuesday through Sunday. The Cass Historic Theater offers four different times throughout the day to view a documentary about Cass Scenic Railroad.