THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Experience a scenic 46-mile vintage train ride through West Virginia's rugged mountains on the New Tygart Flyer. Relax aboard comfy coaches as you journey to the stunning High Falls of Cheat, a hidden waterfall gem.
Experience a scenic 46-mile vintage train ride through West Virginia's rugged mountains on the New Tygart Flyer. Relax aboard comfy coaches as you journey to the stunning High Falls of Cheat, a hidden waterfall gem.
Book with Mountain Rail West Virginia
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Mountain Rail West Virginia · Elkins, West Virginia
Embark on a remarkable 4.5-hour wilderness excursion aboard the New Tygart Flyer, a vintage diesel-powered passenger train that winds its way through the rugged mountains of West Virginia. Departing from the historic restored Elkins Depot in Elkins, this 46-mile round-trip journey offers travelers the opportunity to experience one of the most unspoiled mountain vistas in the region—all from the comfort of climate-controlled coaches.
Nestled amid the Allegheny Mountains, this route showcases dramatic mountain grades, a striking "S" curve tunnel, and a lofty trestle that spans the cascading Shavers Fork of the Cheat River. The scenic climax of the trip is the High Falls of Cheat—an impressive 18-foot-high and 150-foot-wide waterfall set in a remote, pristine natural environment where few roads lead. It's a refreshing destination that highlights the raw beauty of this part of West Virginia’s wilderness.
What sets the New Tygart Flyer apart is its perfect blend of nostalgia and comfort. The vintage diesel locomotive offers a relaxing travel pace ideal for soaking in breathtaking vistas without the fuss of strenuous hiking or driving. Passengers enjoy onboard restrooms and a delicious cold cut lunch included in the ticket price, served at traditional four-top tables in the Regular Service cars. For those desiring an elevated experience, the Parlor Car upgrade provides upgraded lunch selections, desserts, a complimentary glass of wine, and a personalized car host. This upgrade enhances the journey but is exclusive to adults, with children under 12 not permitted.
The New Tygart Flyer operates rain, shine, or snow, making it a year-round way to explore the region’s changing landscape—from the vibrant greens of summer to the fiery reds and oranges of fall.
Elkins itself, the closest town and a gateway to West Virginia's outdoor offerings, provides a charming foothold for further exploration of the surrounding Monongahela National Forest and Cranberry Wilderness.
This train ride is especially unique because it combines history, nature, and comfort in a region known for its rugged outdoor adventures. While it is not wheelchair accessible due to the vintage equipment, the trip still serves a wide range of travelers looking for a picturesque, leisurely escape into West Virginia’s mountainous terrain.
For adventurers and nature lovers seeking sprawling mountain views, a taste of local history, and a serene journey to a spectacular waterfall, the New Tygart Flyer stands out as a memorable and unique activity in the heart of Appalachia.
easy.
4–5 hours.
No strenuous activity required; suitable for most fitness levels.
Due to its vintage design and non-standard platform, the train is not wheelchair accessible and involves several steps to board.
Pets are not permitted on any excursions, except for service animals required due to disabilities.
A cold cut lunch with non-alcoholic beverages is included with Regular Service tickets; Parlor Car upgrades offer enhanced lunch options and desserts.
Children under 12 years old are not allowed in the Parlor Car; it is an adult-only upgrade.
The train operates rain, shine, or snow, providing a reliable year-round experience.
The full round trip covers approximately 4.5 hours and 46 miles, departing at 11 a.m. from Elkins.
Elkins Depot is a restored historic railroad station integral to the growth of rail travel in West Virginia.
The route passes through protected wilderness areas, emphasizing responsible tourism and limited environmental impact.
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