Explore West Virginia’s Scenic Trough and Historic Petersburg on a 9-Hour Rail Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated with some walking during layover
Overview
Journey through West Virginia’s stunning Trough on a scenic 9-hour rail trip to Petersburg. Enjoy eagle sightings, limestone cliffs, and a charming layover in town with boxed lunch included.
All Day Trip to Petersburg • Standard Dining
9 Hours • All Ages
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 9-hour journey through the Trough, where you’ll witness majestic bald eagles in their natural habitat. Enjoy a delightful layover in Petersburg, exploring charming shops and restaurants. With a boxed lunch included, this unique experience combines scenic beauty and local culture for an unforgettable adventure.
Travel through the Trough!
Duration
9 Hours
About
With the Standard Dining, you’ll not only receive the same benefits as the Standard Coach, but also receive a boxed lunch. Advanced reservations are required, and your entrée must be chosen at the time of the 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
Dress in layers and be weather-ready
Since the train isn't climate controlled, wear layers and bring a rain jacket for spring and fall excursions.
Bring binoculars for eagle spotting
The Bald Eagles nesting in the Trough are often visible from the train—binoculars enhance your wildlife viewing.
Stay hydrated
Carry water especially during summer trips to stay comfortable on this 9-hour journey.
Plan your Petersburg visit
Use the layover time to explore local shops and restaurants; check opening hours ahead to optimize your stop.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagle
- White-tailed deer
History
The South Side Depot in Petersburg is a historic train station preserving the early 20th-century railroad heritage of the region.
Conservation
The Trough’s protected river corridor supports bald eagle habitat, and efforts are made to minimize environmental impact during tours.
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Adventure Hotspots in Romney
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
Enhances spotting of bald eagles and other wildlife along the Trough.
spring specific
Layered clothing
Helps adapt to varying temperatures inside the non-climate-controlled train cars.
Water bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the lengthy trip especially in warmer months.
summer specific
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for exploring Petersburg during the layover on varied pavement.