All aboard the Greenbrier Express.
Key Points
The Greenbrier Express offers a 15-mile train ride through West Virginia’s vibrant fall landscapes, making it a perfect destination for autumn travelers. Riders can spot wildlife and enjoy a lunch break in Durbin, combining scenic beauty with a nostalgic journey on a vintage train. This experience is ideal for those seeking to witness peak foliage while enjoying the charm of remote mountain scenery.
When temperatures drop and leaves begin to change, the countdown to peak fall foliage begins. The window for viewing these colorful hues is relatively short, so planning a trip becomes a time-sensitive endeavor. Researching the best spots for autumnal tones is essential. In West Virginia, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, as well as the Greenbrier River Valley, are top choices. One of the best ways to take in the beauty of the latter is by boarding the Greenbrier Express.
Scenic Journey Through Nature
The steam-powered scenic train departs from Cass, West Virginia, weaving through the Monongahela National Forest on its way to the town of Durbin. Along the route, passengers can enjoy river views, a stunning fall color palette, and the chance to spot wildlife. “It is common to see wildlife such as eagles and deer, so keep your eyes peeled during the journey,” says Walter Scriptunas II, marketing director of the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad. “My personal favorite location is Hosterman, the halfway point between Cass and Durbin. A large beaver pond borders the tracks, and waterfowl can often be seen.”
Beyond the breathtaking views, the Greenbrier Express offers a glimpse into history and an opportunity to stretch one’s legs. “All departures are pulled by one of our 100-plus-year-old steam locomotives,” Scriptunas explains. “At the halfway stop in Durbin, passengers unload from the train and are treated to lunch, included in the ticket price. After lunch, there is time to grab a coffee or smoothie at the Simply Sweet Cafe and browse the Rail & Trail Store for unique railroad souvenirs.”
Tickets and Schedule
The Greenbrier Express operates on select days from May through October, but Scriptunas notes that winter rides are also available—though they will miss the fall foliage. “We now offer Greenbrier Express rides on weekends in the winter, beginning in mid-January,” he says. “These trips are becoming very popular, especially following a fresh snowfall.” The round-trip Cass-to-Durbin train leaves Cass at 10 a.m. and returns by 3:30 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased in advance online, with fares varying depending on the time of year and age. Children, seniors, veterans, and active military members can receive discounted tickets. For October 2025 rides, a standard adult ticket costs $93. Both table-style and bus-style seating options are available, and unlike some train rides, passengers get to choose their seat when booking.
“Many first-time passengers ask which is the best side of the train to ride on; the answer is both,” Scriptunas explains. “At the halfway point of the ride, the entire train is turned for the ride back to Cass, giving passengers on both sides of the train an equal view of the scenery.”
He does have one piece of advice for finding the best views, though. “Ask the conductor on board for directions to the baggage car—the large, open doors on this car offer great views of the surrounding scenery,” he says.
Travelers riding the Greenbrier Express in the fall or winter should dress warmly. “While the cars are climate-controlled, temperatures can change fast during the ride, and you don’t want to be surprised when disembarking the train,” he adds.
What to Do in Cass, West Virginia
Make a weekend of your trip to Cass. Beyond riding the Greenbrier Express, there are several other activities to enjoy in the area. “Visit the nearby Green Bank Observatory Science Center for a guided tour of the telescopes, and enjoy a walk or bike ride on the Greenbrier River Trail, which begins in Cass,” says Scriptunas. He also recommends CW’s Corn Maze, which is located on Cass Road and opens on weekends from September 27 through October.
Railway enthusiasts and amateur historians alike may also want to leisurely explore the town of Cass. “Before or after your train ride, take a town tour and visit the Cass Historical Museum to discover the history of the Cass Scenic Railroad,” he says. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, and it’s free to enter. There’s also the option to watch a documentary on Cass and the Cass Scenic Railroad at the Cass Historic Theater, with four different showtimes throughout the day from Tuesday through Sunday.
