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2025 is the year of the Dupe. No, not dupe like you’ll fall for the ol’ three-card Monte trick; dupe as in travel alternatives.
Hard to believe it’s been years since the pandemic was declared over, but one thing has become increasingly clear to this day — travel is back.
Whether it be renowned resorts sold out night after night, having to unnecessarily check bags, or being forced to share selfies in what-should-be wide open plains of national or state parks, travelers are embracing their sense of wanderlust all the over the world, leaving the door open to discover more hidden gems.
When it comes to the U.S., one could argue Alaska is America’s least-explored state, but on the mainland, it’s gotta be West Virginia, right?
Known more for its deeply rooted history of coal mining and longstanding tales of Appalachian folklore, those who have visited West Virginia typically come out the other side shocked by how beautiful the “Mountain State” truly is ,especially being home to America’s most underrated state park.
West Virginia, Take Me…To Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
Anything beats counting bottles of beer on the wall, but let’s not even pretend there’s a better road trip song than Take Me Home, Country Roads.
We’ve all belted out West Virginia’s unofficial theme song at one point or another, but rarely do we ever scope out the state itself for a nice, relaxing getaway.
Full disclosure – West Virginia has often found itself on the wrong side of headlines as numerous former coal mining hubs are nothing but ghost towns these days, leaving locals living in poverty in some cases, and holding the highest death rate for overdoses in the nation, according to the CDC.
Those very headlines, along with dark mysteries of Appalachia, have cast a shadow over the bright spots of West Virginia people have long been missing out on — one of them being Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.
Those who have visited absolutely love it! The park’s Google rating stands at an impressive 4.7 out of 5, with one recent guest claiming, “My family and I truly enjoyed this trip. Beautiful scenery, knowledgeable staff. Nice places to stay nearby and good places to eat. There is so much to do. Lunch was provided with our train ride. 10/10 would recommend!”.
All Aboard The Cass Scenic RailRoad!
Located in blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town of Cass, this vast state park is home to breathtaking mountain vistas, ancient forests, and mazes of hiking trails to explore, but many opt for the a scenic train ride courtesy of Mountain Rail West Virginia, offering seasonal packages on the Cass Scenic Railroad throughout the year.
Best of all, come May, the historic locomotive is bringing back 3 routes with gorgeous views of waterfalls, lush wilderness, and rustic towns like Durbin nestled in the mountains.
These are Cass Scenic Railroad’s current excursions:
New Tygart Flyer (operating April – November) –
TLC was wrong on this one; you’ll definitely want to chase waterfalls. Enjoy comfortable, climate-controlled coaches, a cold-cut lunch, and stunning views of High Falls of Cheat, the region’s dazzling natural wonder, along with flowing rivers, and sky-high bridges.
Waterfall excursions begin May 4, 2025.
Greenbriar Express (operating May – October) –
Aforementioned Durbin is the highlight of this route. Departing from Cass, the Greenbrier Express offers a scenic journey to one of West Virginia’s most picturesque towns exuding timeless charm with general stores, Mom & Pop eateries, all backdropped by astounding wilderness of Monongahela National Forest.
Cass Bald Knob Trip (operating May – October) –
Hope you’re not afraid of heights! This 4.5 hour trek to Bald Knob takes passengers upwards of 2,300 feet for breathtaking views of Appalachian landscapes ranging from spruce forests and staggering mountains as this is the second highest point in West Virginia.
Cass Whitaker Station (operating May – October) –
Taking 2 hours round-trip, guests can hop aboard century-old trains and chug along scenic meadows and rolling hills, ultimately reaching Whitaker Station to deep dive into the area’s historic logging operations.
This route includes a 30 minute break to take in sweeping views of the countryside and peruse the recreated logging camp and intriguing exhibits.
Rent A Spacious Cabin
Camping isn’t for everyone. That’s why “glamping” has become more popular, but who would ever turn down a cabin in the woods?
Truthfully, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park’s cabins might be the best of all because they house up to 14 people comfortably with 2, 3, and 4-bedroom layouts.
These “cabins”, described as ‘restored company houses’, were formerly quarters for loggers back in the day but now serve as truly unique stays to make your base for exploring the park or indulging in the delights of Cass’s small town charm.
Houses are available year-round and can be booked directly here with rates starting at $105 per night this spring and upwards of $180 this summer.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.