How long is the Frostburg Flyer ride?

The entire round-trip adventure aboard the Frostburg Flyer takes approximately five hours.

Is the dome car accessible for people with disabilities?

Unfortunately, the dome car is not wheelchair accessible due to narrow stairs leading to the dome seating area.

Are food or drinks available on the train?

Light refreshments may be available for purchase onboard, but it’s best to verify current offerings before your trip.

When is the best time to see fall foliage on this route?

Mid to late October typically offers peak foliage colors, though this can vary slightly year to year.

Can I bring pets on the train?

Pets are generally not permitted except for service animals; check with Western Maryland Scenic Railroad for their latest policy.

What should I bring for the ride?

We recommend dressing in layers, bringing a camera with a zoom lens, and packing binoculars for the best experience.

Fall Foliage Ride on Frostburg Flyer by Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

For those seeking a distinctive twist on autumn adventure in Mountain Maryland, the Frostburg Flyer aboard the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad offers a journey unlike any other. Departing from Cumberland, Maryland, this historic railroad experience showcases the rugged beauty of Allegheny Mountains draped in fall colors, all viewed from the elegance of the unique Pleasure Dome Car. Originally crafted for the legendary Santa Fe Super Chief, the dome car boasts a near 180-degree panoramic glass ceiling, creating an exceptional vantage point to drink in vast forests of red, gold, and amber hues.

This five-hour round trip crosses scenic valleys and winding rivers within the Appalachian Plateau, where hardwood forests dominate the landscape and wildlife sightings are common. The drive through mountain terrain reveals geological features like shale cliffs and hardwood groves that define the region’s rugged charm. The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad preserves a vital piece of the area's industrial heritage, offering a blend of outdoor appreciation and cultural history through vintage rail travel.

Unlike typical hiking or driving tours that require effort or navigation, the Frostburg Flyer invites travelers of all ages to sit back while nature unfolds around them from the comfort of plush seats beneath the glass dome. The narrow staircase leading up to the dome adds to the exclusive feel but limits accessibility. For photographers and leaf peepers keen on fall’s fleeting makeup, this ride presents unparalleled opportunities to capture connected landscapes framed against the bright sky.

Positioned as a standout fall attraction, this ride complements the broader outdoor offerings of Maryland’s mountainous western region. Whether you’re a local outdoor enthusiast or visiting from nearby urban hubs, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s Frostburg Flyer combines leisure and spectacular natural scenery in an unmatched format, making it a must-experience destination during the autumn months.

About Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad preserves and operates heritage rail excursions through Mountain Maryland and the Allegheny Mountains. The railroad offers a variety of seasonal and themed trips, including scenic daylight runs, sunset rides, dinner trains, holiday specials, and educational seminars.

Signature experiences include the Frostburg Flyer (Coach, Lounge, Lunch, Dome Class, and 1309 Cab Ride), the Allegheny Mountain Dinner Train with a rotating three-course menu, the Murder Mystery Dinner Train with live actors, and the family-focused Polar Express Train Ride™ offered in Coach, Table, Dome and First Class options. The Sunset on the Mountain departs from Cumberland at 7:00 PM behind historic steam locomotive no. 1309.

The Frostburg Flyer Dome Class rides in a Pleasure Dome Car originally designed for the Santa Fe Super Chief, showcasing panoramic fall foliage views. The Pumpkin Patch Limited provides a one-hour round trip from Downtown Cumberland to Bone Cave with costumes encouraged. Educational offerings include the Fireballs & Fast Freights Seminar, led by Conductor Cameron Stefan, featuring original memorabilia and regional railroad history.

Experiences range from family-friendly holiday events to 21+ dining and lounge services for adults. The railroad highlights historic equipment, themed programming, and curated dining options that combine scenic travel with immersive storytelling. As a regional heritage operator, the railroad emphasizes public engagement through scheduled excursions and special events. Prospective visitors can verify schedules and seating classes for each trip class—Coach, First, Table, Lounge, Open-Air, Dome, and Cab—when planning reservations. Tickets, seating details, and seasonal dates are available on official channels online.