THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
Book with Mountain Rail West Virginia
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Mountain Rail West Virginia · Cass, West Virginia
Set amidst the expansive Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia, the Greenbrier Express offers an unforgettable journey through nearly untouched wilderness along the Greenbrier River. Departing from the historic town of Cass, this 30-mile roundtrip steam-powered train ride follows a newly restored section of track that winds alongside clear, free-flowing river waters, framed by forested mountain slopes that shift with the seasons. The journey, lasting approximately 5.5 hours, invites travelers into a scenic river corridor where wildlife sightings are frequent, including white-tailed deer, river otters, and black bears. Birdwatchers will delight spotting bald eagles, hawks, ospreys, and other aquatic birds that thrive in this protected environment.
Cass itself is a fascinating gateway, known for its turn-of-the-century railroad heritage. The original railway line was built in 1902 by the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway primarily to access timber resources but was largely abandoned by 1978. Thanks to a collaboration between the West Virginia State Rail Authority and Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad, this northernmost 15-mile stretch has been revived, providing a rare window into Appalachian logging history combined with modern conservation efforts.
Passengers enjoy comfort aboard climate-controlled train cars with seating options ranging from traditional four-top tables to bus-style seats facing forward. Upon arrival in the mountain village of Durbin, travelers disembark to enjoy a included cold-cut lunch served at one of three local venues: the Durbin Depot, Simply Sweet Cafe, or Station 2 Restaurant. Each meal is cafeteria-style, featuring sandwich fixings, chips, a cookie, and bottled water, with additional menu items available for purchase.
The Greenbrier Express operates rain, shine, or snow, making it a dependable choice year-round. However, historical limitations mean the train cars are not wheelchair accessible, due to multiple boarding steps. Pets are not allowed, except for service animals.
This excursion isn’t just a train ride; it’s a journey back in time paired with striking natural beauty. Enthusiasts of rail history, nature lovers, and photographic adventurers will all find something compelling in this trip. The Greenbrier Express shines as a quieter, less crowded alternative to other mountain tours in the region, providing a deep connection to the rugged wilds of West Virginia.
Nearby lodging and accommodations are centered in Cass, West Virginia, a small town rich with outdoor recreation opportunities and Appalachian charm. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of steam engines, untamed wilderness, or quiet observation of river wildlife, the Greenbrier Express is a unique and rewarding experience in America’s mountain heartland.
easy.
5–6 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels as the trip involves minimal physical exertion beyond boarding and walking at lunch stops.
Pets are not permitted on any excursions except for service animals required due to disability.
Due to the historic nature of the cars, the Greenbrier Express is not wheelchair accessible because of multiple boarding steps.
Yes, a cold-cut lunch with sandwich fixings, chips, cookie, and water is included, served at one of three venues in Durbin.
All trains run in rain, shine, or snow, offering year-round adventures.
Some train cars have restrooms; others do not, but restrooms are accessible at lunch venues.
Additional menu items are available for purchase at some lunch venues beyond the included meal.
The Cass Scenic Railroad was originally built in 1902 to haul timber, reflecting the area’s rich logging heritage.
Current operations focus on sustainable tourism and preserving the natural beauty of the Monongahela National Forest.
Mountain Rail West Virginia is a scenic and heritage rail operator based in Durbin, West Virginia. It offers a range of train excursions on the Cass Scenic Railroad and connecting routes that showcase Cheat Mountain, the Greenbrier River, and the Monongahela National Forest. Trips include steam-powered Shay locomotive runs, vintage diesel journeys, seasonal specials, themed events, and overnight caboose stays. Signature experiences include Bald Knob and Spruce mountain excursions, the Greenbrier Express and Greenbrier Express Winter Special (both Cass-to-Durbin roundtrips), and the New Tygart Flyer to High Falls of Cheat. Special events feature the Cass Parade of Steam Special, the Cass Christmas Train, the Ramps & Rails community event, the Wild West Special, and the Murder Mystery Wine Train. For photographers and logging history enthusiasts, Titans of Logging Photography Weekend provides focused access to iconic scenes. Overnight options include the Castaway Overnight Caboose stays with restored Wabash Railroad cabooses and river dropoffs at "End of Line" and "Hevener Station." Reservations are recommended for special events, seasonal trips, and overnight stays today.
Book with Mountain Rail West Virginia