Cass Scenic Whittaker Trip (DEPARTS FROM CASS, WV)

ALL TRAINS RUN RAIN/SHINE/SNOW

The Cass Scenic Railroad is the same line built in 1901 to haul lumber to the mill in Cass. The locomotives are the same Shay locomotives used in Cass during that time, and in the rain forests of British Columbia for more than a half-century. Many of the passenger cars are old logging flat cars that have been refurbished.

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 class C-80 Shay, #5 has been toiling up Cheat Mountain for 115 years, making it one of the oldest engines in continuous service on its original line, and the oldest operable Shay in existence!

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 picturesque 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.

Important Seating Note:

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 B 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.

PET POLICY:

• We DO NOT allow pets on any of our excursions
• Service animals which are required due to a disability are allowed

ADA INFO:

• The Whittaker Station train contains one car (D) that is wheelchair accessible. All other cars are not accessible.