Discover the Scenic All Day Rail Journey to Petersburg Through West Virginia’s Trough
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required; suitable for all ages 17 and up who can sit comfortably for extended periods.
Overview
Explore West Virginia’s Trough by rail on the All Day Trip to Petersburg. Enjoy breathtaking river views, bald eagle sightings, a charming town stop, and climate-controlled comfort on this 9-hour excursion.
All Day Trip to Petersburg • Club Service
9 Hours • Ages 17+
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About This Adventure
Experience a unique 8-hour journey through the stunning Trough, featuring beautifully restored lounge cars with meal service and breathtaking views of nature. Enjoy a 3-hour layover in charming Petersburg, exploring local shops and restaurants. Witness bald eagles in their natural habitat on this memorable adventure from May to November.
Travel through the Trough!
Duration
8 Hours
About
These beautifully restored lounge cars offer loveseats with tables and are climate-controlled to provide air conditioning or heat throughout the car. With a meal service and expansive view of the nature, you’ll enjoy every moment in our car. Reservations are required, and your entree must be chosen at the time of your reservation. You can check out our menu here! Prices on the menu are subject to change.
Additional Information
From May to November, we offer an 9-hour trip to Petersburg on the last Saturday of the month. During this trip, you’ll have a layover in Petersburg where you get to explore the quaint town and enjoy the unique shops and restaurants offered there.
This is a longer version of the Trough Trip; it goes further south, to the end of the line, through Moorefield and into Petersburg. (It is approximately 76 miles round-trip.) There is a layover in Petersburg, about 3 hours long. Passengers have time to enjoy the South Side Depot as well as shops and restaurants.
Both southbound trips travel through the Trough, where bald eagles nest!
Adventure Tips
Book Your Meal in Advance
Choose your meal entree when making your reservation to ensure availability during the trip.
Dress in Layers
Even with climate control, temperatures can vary; layering keeps you comfortable throughout the day.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your eagle watching experience through the Trough with a good pair of binoculars.
Explore Petersburg on Foot
Use your layover time to visit unique shops and restaurants within walking distance of the depot.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagles nesting throughout the Trough
- River otters along the South Branch Potomac River
History
The South Branch Valley Railroad was essential in the development of Romney and Petersburg, serving as a critical transport route since the early 20th century.
Conservation
The route passes through protected eagle nesting habitats; wildlife is monitored to ensure minimal disturbance from rail traffic.
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Adventure Hotspots in Romney
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
Essential for spotting bald eagles nesting along the Trough during the journey.
spring specific
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust as temperatures change inside the climate-controlled car or outdoors during Petersburg layover.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the stunning scenery and wildlife seen throughout the trip.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
For exploring Petersburg during the three-hour layover.