Steam, River, and Timber: Riding the Greenbrier Express Through Monongahela Wilderness
30-Mile Roundtrip (Approx. 5.5 Hours) • Steam • Unspoiled River Views • NEW ROUTE • Railfan’s Dream
The depot at Cass smells of oil and cedar and something older—coal smoke folded into mountain air. You climb wooden steps, hand on a brass rail, and watch volunteers in period caps check tickets with an efficient ceremony. The locomotive sighs, steam hisses, and the town loosens its grip as the train eases away from the siding and tumbles into a corridor of trees. The Greenbrier River runs just low and loud to the right, daring you to look away.
Trail Wisdom
Pick the right seat
Book Cars 3607 or 202 for table seating; choose Car 835 for forward-facing windows—Car 3607 and 835 have restrooms.
Bring optics
Binoculars (or a mid-range telephoto lens) significantly increase wildlife-viewing success from the train.
Layer up
Even in summer, mornings and the shaded river corridor can be cool; a light insulated layer and windbreaker help.
Carry small cash
Lunch is included, but extras at Station 2 or Simply Sweet Cafe are cash/card—bring a little cash and a card just in case.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short stroll along Durbin Depot for close-up steam and railyard views
- •Quiet pullouts on the Greenbrier River for photography near Durbin (ask guides for safe spots)
Wildlife
River Otter, Bald Eagle
Conservation Note
The route runs through the Monongahela National Forest—practice leave-no-trace on deboarded stops and avoid disturbing riverbanks or nesting birds.
The original northern segment of this railroad was built in 1902 by the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway to access timber resources; later restoration revived the line for scenic service.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migratory birds, Early wildflowers
Challenges: Cool mornings, Intermittent muddy yards in depot areas
Spring brings fresh green and active birdlife; expect variable weather and strong birding opportunities.
summer
Best for: Warm days, Comfortable enclosed cars
Challenges: Hazy views some days, Higher insect activity near riverbanks
Summer offers reliably scheduled runs and warm, comfortable travel, though afternoon haze can soften distant ridgelines.
fall
Best for: Foliage viewing, Photography
Challenges: Higher demand for tickets, Chilly mornings
Fall—especially October—is peak for color; book early for window seats and expect brisk air.
winter
Best for: Snow-dusted landscapes, Low crowds
Challenges: Potential cold and icing on boarding steps, Limited accessibility due to historic cars
Runs operate rain/shine/snow; winter converts the corridor to stark, sculptural beauty but requires warm clothing.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Bring 8–10x binoculars to pick out eagles, otters, and other wildlife along the river.
Layered jacketEssential
A light insulated layer plus shell handles variable temps in the valley and on the platform.
Telephoto-capable camera or zoom lens
A 200–300mm equivalent helps capture wildlife across the river from the train window.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Hydration for the half-day trip—bottle refills available at some Durbin venues.
Common Questions
Is the Greenbrier Express wheelchair accessible?
No. Due to the historic nature of the railcars, the trip is not wheelchair accessible; multiple steps are required to board.
Are pets allowed on board?
No pets are permitted. Service animals for guests with disabilities are allowed.
What is included in the ticket price?
Tickets include a 30-mile roundtrip ride and a standard cafeteria-style cold-cut lunch served upon arrival in Durbin.
Where will lunch be served?
Lunch venues are assigned the day of travel and include Durbin Depot, Simply Sweet Cafe, or Station 2 Restaurant; deboarding is required to access these venues.
Are there restrooms on the train?
Yes—Coach Cars 3607 and 835 contain restrooms; Coach Car 202 does not, but nearby cars have facilities.
How early should I arrive at Cass?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for parking, boarding, and finding your assigned seat.
What to Pack
Binoculars, Layered jacket, Camera with zoom, Small cash/card for extras
Did You Know
The railroad running from Cass toward Durbin was originally constructed in 1902 by the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway to haul timber; major flood damage in 1985 led to reconstruction and the current scenic operations.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 30 minutes early; bring binoculars and a jacket; expect limited cell service; book fall dates early for foliage.
Local Flavor
Deboard in Durbin for lunch at the Durbin Depot, Simply Sweet Cafe, or Station 2 Restaurant—each offers straightforward fare and a chance to chat with locals. If you’re staying nearby, Elkins has a few breweries and farm-to-table spots for dinner after your ride.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest major airports: Greenbrier Valley Airport (LWB) or Yeager Airport (CRW) — both 1.5–2.5 hours by car; Driving from Elkins to Cass ~45–60 minutes; Cell service is intermittent on the route; No permits required, but tickets and assigned seating are required.
Sustainability Note
This corridor runs through Monongahela National Forest—pack out trash, stay on designated areas when deboarding, and avoid feeding or approaching wildlife.