easy
9 hours
Low physical effort required; suitable for most fitness levels as activity involves sitting with light walking during layover.
Discover West Virginia's rugged Trough and quaint Petersburg on a unique nine-hour rail trip combining breathtaking eagle sightings with upscale dining. Get ready for an unhurried journey where nature meets vintage rail luxury.
9 Hours • Ages 17+
Embark on a captivating 9-hour journey through the Trough, featuring beautifully restored dining cars and climate-controlled comfort. Enjoy a scenic trip to Petersburg with a 3-hour layover to explore charming shops and restaurants. Witness majestic bald eagles nesting along the route, making this experience truly unforgettable.
9 Hours
Superior Dining includes upgraded meal service for passengers 17+, These beautifully restored dining cars offer 2 and 4 top tables and are climate-controlled providing air conditioning or heat. Advance reservations required. Entree chosen at time of reservation. You can check out our menu here! Prices on the menu are subject to change.
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!
Choose your entree ahead of time to enjoy the upgraded Superior Dining experience without delay.
Though climate-controlled, layering is advised as outside temperatures can vary during spring to fall trips.
The Trough is home to bald eagles—binoculars enhance viewing opportunities from the train windows.
Use the three-hour stop wisely to explore the historic depot, local shops, and dining venues in Petersburg.
The railway line through this region recalls historic Appalachian commerce routes and wildlife conservation efforts for the bald eagle.
The journey emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing from the train to minimize habitat disturbance in the Trough area.
To spot nesting bald eagles while passing through the Trough.
spring specific
For exploring Petersburg’s shops and historic sites during the layover.
summer specific
Prepare for temperature fluctuations inside and outside the train cars.
fall specific
Protection during outdoor walks in Petersburg and at the station.
summer specific