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Experience the Scenic Greenbrier Express Train Ride from Cass to Durbin, WV - Cass

Experience the Scenic Greenbrier Express Train Ride from Cass to Durbin, WV

Casseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

5–6 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels as the trip involves minimal physical exertion beyond boarding and walking at lunch stops.

Overview

Discover the Greenbrier Express train journey from Cass to Durbin, WV, where historic steam locomotives glide along the Greenbrier River through the Monongahela National Forest. Encounter wildlife, rolling mountain views, and an included riverside lunch on this scenic 5.5-hour roundtrip adventure.

Cass, West Virginia

Greenbrier Express (Cass-to-Durbin Roundtrip)

30-Mile Roundtrip (Approx. 5.5 Hours) • Steam • Unspoiled River Views • NEW ROUTE • Railfan’s Dream

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About This Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Greenbrier Express, departing from the historic town of Cass. This scenic train ride winds along the picturesque Greenbrier River, showcasing the stunning Monongahela National Forest. Enjoy a delicious cold cut lunch in Durbin, surrounded by wildlife and natural beauty, making this journey truly unforgettable.

Greenbrier Express (DEPARTS FROM CASS, WV)

ALL TRAINS RUN RAIN/SHINE/SNOW

THIS TRAIN IS NOT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

Trip Summary:

The Greenbrier Express (GBX) train departs from the restored, historically important town of Cass and closely follows the clear, free-flowing Greenbrier River to the small mountain village of Durbin. On arrival in Durbin, all ticket holders will be served lunch at a pre-determined location either on your train car, in the depot, or at one of the restaurants on Main Street adjacent to the depot. The ride upriver to Durbin passes through a secluded wilderness portion of the 950,000-acre Monongahela National Forest featuring beautiful scenes of forested mountains at each turn of the river. Sightings of Deer, River Otters, and Black Bear along with a wide variety of Eagles, Hawks, Ospreys, and other species of aquatic birds are common.

The original 95-mile section of this railroad was first constructed in 1902 by the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway with an eye toward timber resource development. It continued serving that purpose until rail traffic declined and most of the line was abandoned in 1978. Today’s trip takes you on the northernmost 15-mile portion that was purchased by the West Virginia State Rail Authority. Unfortunately, a catastrophic flood in 1985 washed out major portions of this line. Thanks to a private/public initiative between the WV State Rail Authority and Durbin & Greenbrier Valley RR, the track has been reconstructed and now offers a new and different option to visitors at the iconic Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.

Important Seating Note:

The Greenbrier Express features climate-controlled enclosed cars. When booking seats in Coach Car 3607 and Coach Car 202, you will choose seats at traditional 4-top tables. When booking seats in Coach Car 835, you will choose seats in a bus-style format (i.e., two seats positioned together on either side of an aisle, all forward-facing). Coach Cars 3607 and 835 contain restrooms. Coach Car 202 DOES NOT contain a restroom but restrooms are accessible in the next car over.

Note About Lunch:

Each ticket includes a standard cold cut lunch served upon arrival in Durbin at one of three venues (Durbin Depot, Simply Sweet Cafe, and Station 2 Restaurant). Your specific lunch venue will be assigned by food service management on the day of your trip. Each lunch is served cafeteria-style and consists of various items to make a cold cut sandwich, a bag of chips, a cookie, and a bottle of water. Deboarding the train is required to access all lunch venues. The lunch included in the ticket price as stated above is the same at all venues. Any additional menu items available for purchase at Station 2 or Simply Sweet Cafe are not included in the ticket price and must be paid for out of pocket. A guide will be present upon arrival in Durbin to assist with directions to each lunch venue.

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:

  • Due to the historical nature of the train cars, the Greenbrier Express is not wheelchair accessible. There are multiple steps to board the train, but there are handrails to help.

Adventure Tips

Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting

The route frequently showcases deer, river otters, black bears, and various raptors—binoculars greatly enhance your viewing experience.

Dress in layers year-round

Though the train is climate-controlled, weather can vary while waiting or at lunch stops; layering helps keep you comfortable.

Arrive early for boarding

Boarding involves multiple steps and handrails; arriving early lets you get settled and choose your preferred seating area calmly.

Plan for limited restroom facilities

Only some cars have restrooms onboard; plan accordingly and know restrooms are available at lunch venues.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • River otters often spotted playing near the riverbanks
  • Bald eagles soaring overhead along the Greenbrier River

History

The Cass Scenic Railroad was originally built in 1902 to haul timber, reflecting the area’s rich logging heritage.

Conservation

Current operations focus on sustainable tourism and preserving the natural beauty of the Monongahela National Forest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Binoculars

Essential

Enhances wildlife and birdwatching along the river corridor.

Water-resistant jacket

Essential

Spring showers are common; a lightweight rain shell keeps you dry.

spring specific

Warm hat and gloves

Essential

Cold mountain air and snow make layering necessary for winter rides.

winter specific

Camera with zoom lens

Essential

Capture detailed shots of steep mountain scenery and wildlife from the train.